BO's Bagels

For any true New Yorker, the search for the perfect bagel is a lifelong journey. In the historic and culturally rich neighborhood of Harlem, that journey often ends at 235 West 116th Street. BO's Bagels has quickly ascended to the "bagel big leagues," filling a long-standing vacuum in the local food scene. Established by Andrew Martinez and Ashley Dikos in 2017, this shop was born out of a simple, relatable frustration: the lack of a traditional, high-quality bagel within walking distance of their Harlem home. What started as a home-kitchen experiment has transformed into a local institution, celebrated for bringing the "real" New York bagel—crisp on the outside, chewy on the inside—back to the streets of Upper Manhattan.

The atmosphere at BO's Bagels is a reflection of the neighborhood it serves—vibrant, welcoming, and unpretentious. The shop is famous for the giant bagel hanging in its window, a beacon for carbohydrate lovers from across the five boroughs. Unlike the oversized, bread-like "bagels" found in many modern chains, BO's prides itself on a more traditional, petite size. These bagels undergo a rigorous 24- to 48-hour cold fermentation process, followed by a brief boil in malt-syrup-infused water and a bake on burlap-covered wood boards. This old-school method ensures a bubbled, glossy crust and a dense, flavorful interior that "people eat with their memories." Whether you are a regular picking up a "baker's dozen" or a tourist seeking an authentic NYC breakfast, BO's offers a professional yet homey experience that defines the modern Harlem culinary landscape.

Location and Accessibility

BO's Bagels is centrally located at 235 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026, USA. Situated in Central Harlem, the shop is nestled between Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd and Frederick Douglass Blvd, putting it in the heart of a bustling residential and commercial corridor. Its location is ideal for those planning a morning stroll through nearby Morningside Park or Central Park, both of which are just a few blocks away. The shop itself is designed to be accessible, featuring a spacious aisle that comfortably fits strollers—a rarity in many cramped Manhattan eateries—making it a favorite for local families.

Accessibility via public transportation is one of the shop's greatest strengths. It is remarkably easy to reach for anyone navigating the city. The 116th Street subway station for the 2 and 3 trains is just a short walk to the east, while the B and C trains at the 116th Street and Eighth Avenue station are equally close to the west. This dual-line access makes it a convenient stop for commuters traveling between the Bronx, Upper West Side, and Downtown Manhattan. Additionally, multiple bus routes, including the M2, M3, M7, and M116, serve the immediate area. While the shop primarily caters to a "grab-and-go" crowd, there is limited seating available for those who wish to enjoy their bagel while it is still warm from the oven.

Services Offered

• Traditional Hand-Boiled Bagels: Baked fresh daily in small batches using high-quality unbleached and unbromated flour.
• Specialty Breakfast & Deli Sandwiches: A wide array of creative sandwiches featuring house-made ingredients like pulled pork, chipotle chili, and various smoked fishes.
• Vegan-Friendly Menu: A standout selection of vegan cream cheeses (such as tofu scallion and veggie tofu) and dedicated vegan sandwiches.
• Catering Services: Capable of handling large-scale orders for office meetings and community events, serving organizations as large as Columbia University.
• Custom Spreads and Cream Cheeses: Over 18 different house-made spreads, ranging from sun-dried tomato to maple walnut.
• Gluten-Free Options: Offering southern-style gluten-free biscuits as a thoughtful alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
• Online Ordering and Delivery: Seamless integration with major delivery platforms for convenient home or office enjoyment.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Boiling Process: A large kettle is kept in plain sight behind the counter, allowing customers to watch the traditional boiling process as they order.
• Diverse Bagel Flavors: Beyond the classics, the shop offers unique varieties like Za’atar, Black Russian (pumpernickel with sesame), and Pumpernickel Cranberry.
• Award-Winning Recognition: Regularly featured on "Best of NYC" lists by major publications like Eater, Food & Wine, and The Infatuation.
• Community Roots: Founded by local Harlem residents who started the business at the Harvest Home Farmer’s Market on Lenox Avenue.
• Freshness Guarantee: Bagels are churned out all day, often reaching the customer's hands while still radiating heat from the industrial oven.
• LGBTQ+ and Trans-Safe Environment: Recognized as an inclusive and welcoming space for all members of the community.

Contact Information

Address: 235 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026, USA

Phone: (917) 902-8345

Mobile Phone: +1 917-902-8345

What is worth choosing

If you are visiting BO's Bagels for the first time, the Za’atar bagel is an absolute must-try. This Middle Eastern-inspired creation has earned a cult following for its "insanely good" spice blend baked directly into the crust. Real customers highly recommend pairing it with an egg, muenster cheese, and turkey bacon for a savory explosion of flavor that you won't find at a standard bagel shop. If you prefer a sandwich with more global flair, the "Uptown Vegan" on a Za'atar bagel—loaded with hummus, avocado, cucumber, and alfalfa sprouts—is a masterclass in fresh, plant-based dining.

For those who lean toward traditional New York deli flavors, the "Rick Reuben" is a standout choice. Served on a Black Russian bagel (a sesame-topped pumpernickel), it features a generous helping of pastrami, corned beef, swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and 1,000 Islands dressing. This sandwich highlights the "medium density" of BO's bagels, which are structurally sound enough to hold heavy fillings without becoming overly bready. If you are looking for something sweet yet savory, "The Andrew"—named after the owner—combines eggs, bacon, sausage, and scallion cream cheese with a drizzle of Vermont maple syrup on a sesame bagel.

Finally, do not overlook the simple joy of a bagel and a schmear. The scallion cream cheese is a frequent recommendation from regulars, noted for its perfect balance and fresh onion crunch. For a unique twist, try the "Black Russian" bagel with scallion cream cheese, tomato, and capers. Whether you are indulging in their weekend-only "bagel bites" (French toast-style cinnamon raisin balls) or a classic lox sandwich, the quality of the base bagel ensures a five-star experience. BO's Bagels has successfully proven that you don't need a century of history to make the best bagel in the city—you just need the right technique and a lot of heart.

As you walk through Harlem, the yeasty, toasty aroma of BO's is likely to pull you in before you even see the giant bagel in the window. It is a testament to the power of a local business built on a foundation of quality and community service. Make sure to stop by 235 West 116th Street to grab a warm bag of the finest carbs Harlem has to offer—just be prepared to leave with more than you planned to buy!

BO's Bagels

235 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026, USA