Three east side shops stand out when the bagel itself is the reason for the trip. Each makes its own. The full Cleveland bagel guide adds Ohio City, Midtown, Lakewood and Medina, with a map and scores for every maker.
Cleveland Heights
Nubeigel
Best for: A slow weekday breakfast on Lee Road
Small-batch bagels made by hand on Lee Road in Cleveland Heights, with good coffee and a short menu of sandwiches like the sabich and egg salad. Try the everything bagel.
Bagels are not toasted here. Closed Saturdays. Day-old bagels sell at a discount.
University Heights
Bialy's Bagels
Best for: Stocking the freezer with a dozen
Old-school bagel bakery on Warrensville Center Road in University Heights with a long lineup baked on site every morning. Get the mish-mosh, salt or half pretzel, half rye bagel while it is still warm.
Closed Monday and Tuesday. Mostly bagels by the dozen with a few sandwiches. Freezer bags are available for taking a big order home.
Solon
D&R Bagels
Best for: An early start in Solon
Hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels baked on Aurora Road in Solon, with a big lineup of flavors, house cream cheeses and sandwiches like the Korean BBQ beef.
Opens at 5 a.m. every day and closes at 2 p.m. Roomy seating.