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Dairy-free sesame bagels

Made for those who navigate a dairy-free diet while still enjoying the texture of a toasted sesame bagel.

Based on 887 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Hank's Bagels image 1
Hank's Bagels image 2
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Bagel shop

Bagel shop with an industrial kitchen view and limited outdoor seating creates a casual, dog-friendly atmosphere. The vibe stays chill and welcoming, attracting people who enjoy fresh, well-made bagels in a straightforward setting.

Sesame bagels sell out early, often gone by 10 am. They come with cream cheese or as sandwich bases with egg and cheese or turkey.

Offers Follow Your Heart vegan cream cheese, noted for its flavor. Vegan cream cheese bagel is available and well-liked.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be fresh and really tasty."

"The dairy-free cream cheese here is the best I've ever tasted."

"The sesame bagel had a soft inside and crispy exterior."

Good to know

1

Hank's Bagels is solely a to-go place with no indoor seating.

2

The line can get quite long, so be prepared to wait.

3

Finding a parking spot might be difficult later in the day.

02
Apollo Bagels image 1

Bagels stand out as the best in NYC, crafted with delicately chosen flavors that blend perfectly. The space offers a minimalist, spacious layout with visible bagel-making behind the counter. The atmosphere carries a fast-food energy with good music and positive vibes but lacks warmth and character.

Sesame bagels have a chewy texture and a nice sourdough taste. Smoked salmon with light creme cheese pairs well on the sesame bagel, which costs $2.72 after tax.

Vegan cream cheese made from chickpeas, tomato, and olive oil offers a rich, dairy-free option. The vegan sandwich on an everything bagel pairs well with this creamy spread.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best bagels in all of New York."

"I thought the sesame bagel was great, chewy, and had a nice sourdough taste."

"I thought the Dairy Free bagels might be the best."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends due to high demand.

2

Seating is limited, with mostly bench seating along the wall.

3

Prices for bagels can be high, with two bagels costing around $27.

03
Backyard Bagel - Fremont image 1

Bagel shop offers modern, airy space with cozy indoor seating and a heated outdoor patio. Atmosphere feels relaxed and bright, with good music and friendly energy. Crowds gather early, often leading to standing room only inside during busy times.

Sesame bagels come with a crispy crust and a soft interior. Blueberry schmear pairs well with the nutty sesame flavor.

Offers a vegan schmear with several tasty options like vegan garlic scallion cream cheese. Bagels come with non-dairy cream cheese versions that pair well with everything or jalapeno cheddar bagels.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are really good, with a great texture."

"The vegan cream cheese here is super delicious."

"You can't get the sesame bagel toasted here."

Good to know

1

A single bagel costs $3, and schmear starts at $2.50.

2

Most bagels and some toppings, like lox, often sell out by noon.

3

Expect to wait less than 5 minutes during early morning hours.

04
Broad Nosh Bagels Deli & Catering 58th Street image 1

Bagel shop buzzes with chaotic atmosphere and limited seating. Sesame bagels boast a crisp crust and soft inside, perfect with tofu chive cream cheese. Wide range of vegan cream cheese offers tasty dairy-free choices.

Fresh out of the oven, the sesame bagel has a crisp crust and soft inside. It pairs well with scallion cream cheese, tofu chive cream cheese, or walnut raisin cream cheese for varied flavors.

A huge variety of vegan cream cheese spreads stands out here. The tofu-based vegan schmears are especially good and offer delicious dairy-free options.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be amazing."

"I found good vegan bagels and cream cheese options."

"The sesame bagel with scallion cream cheese was really delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect waiting times of around 20 minutes during peak hours.

2

Ordering for take-out is suggested to bypass the line.

3

There’s a long line at 10am on a Saturday.

05
Hey Bagel image 1
Bagel shop

Open kitchen reveals fresh bagel production with steam rising from ovens. Lively, casual vibe suits quick bites amid limited standing space and frequent queues. Outdoor seating offers a crisp alternative to the small, bright interior.

Sesame bagels come out fresh and hot, cooked just right. They pair well with spicy scallion schmear or lox cream cheese for added flavor.

Three flavors of in-house vegan and dairy-free shmear are available, including chili crisp and scallion options. The vegan shmears are high quality and often chosen over regular cream cheese.

People are saying

"These bagels are amazing, I loved them!"

"The sesame bagel was hot, fresh, and airy inside."

"I found the bagels here to be real, authentic bagels."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines, especially on weekends; arrive early to avoid waiting.

2

There is no seating available; it's a grab-and-go style shop.

3

Bagels are priced at $3 each, with a limit of two dozen sold daily.

06
Rico Bagel image 1
Restaurant

Small takeaway spot with limited seating and a busy, energetic atmosphere. Distinctive fragrance permeates the space, influencing the overall experience. Known for high-quality bagels with a variety of cream cheeses available.

Gluten free option stands out with a delicious sesame flavor. The sesame bagel pairs well with chicken salad for a solid combo.

Three tofu-based vegan cream cheese options exist, covering both vegetarian and vegan needs. Each vegan cream cheese smear costs 6 dollars.

People are saying

"I thought these bagels were great."

"They had three delicious, tofu-based dairy-free cream cheese options."

"I found the gluten-free sesame bagel delicious."

Good to know

1

The price for two bagels with two coffees is $49.

2

You may not be able to eat here due to limited seating.

3

Celiacs should look elsewhere for gluten-free options.

07
New Absolute Bagels image 1

Tiny, cramped space with no frills and a cash-only policy creates a straightforward, old-fashioned vibe. Atmosphere feels chaotic and outdated, yet maintains a friendly, jovial energy. Bagels stand out as the best in the city, drawing long queues despite the bare-bones setting.

Crunchy outside and well toasted, the sesame bagels come with a variety of cream cheeses like scallion, chive & onion, and pimento and olive. They pair well with toppings such as nova and tuna salad.

A wide variety of vegan bagels and tofu cream cheese options are available. The vegan spring onion cream cheese stands out for its light taste.

People are saying

"These bagels are really good and flavorful."

"The dairy-free bagels here are authentic and super tasty."

"The sesame bagel has a wonderfully crispy crust and chewy texture."

Good to know

1

The shop accepts only cash payments; no ATM cards are accepted.

2

Expect long wait times, especially if you arrive after 10:30 AM.

3

The best time to visit is early on weekend mornings.

08
Utopia Bagels image 1
Bagel shop

Spacious bagel shop with glass viewing of bagel-making and clean, open layout. Atmosphere varies from bustling yet cozy to occasionally loud due to music. Seating is limited despite large space, making it more suited for takeout or quick bites.

Sesame bagels come toasted and hold up well with rich toppings like olive and EVOO cream cheese. They work great for hearty breakfast sandwiches with eggs, avocado, and sausage.

Several vegan options appear on the menu, including an everything bagel with vegan scallion tofu cream cheese and a vegan breakfast burrito. The vegan bagels and cream cheese spreads receive positive remarks for taste and value.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best bagels in the city."

"I loved their delicious sesame bagels."

"I found the dairy-free bagels here to be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect longer lines during the holiday season.

2

The place gets incredibly busy and packed.

3

You should wait out the seating as the turnaround of people sitting and eating is quick.

09
Broad Nosh Bagels Deli & Catering 42nd Street image 1

Bagel shop serves fresh sesame bagels with tasty toppings like jalapeño cream cheese and bacon, egg, cheddar. Plenty of vegan cream cheese options make dairy-free choices easy. Cozy, clean space welcomes dogs and offers fast, friendly service.

Sesame bagels come with fresh toppings like jalapeño cream cheese or bacon, egg, and cheddar. They taste really nice and pair well with egg and cheese for a solid meal.

Most bagels come with a wide variety of vegan cream cheese spreads, including smoked and gluten-free options. A clearly labeled vegan cream cheese menu makes it easy to find plenty of dairy-free choices.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be the best I ever ate."

"These bagel sandwiches are delicious and exactly what I was looking for."

"The sesame bagels here are warm, tasty, and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is a free bagel tasting available.

2

The restaurant opens at 5:00 am on Sundays.

3

You can order through the link on Google Maps to skip the line.

10
Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company image 1

Small bagel shop offers huge selection of cream cheese spreads and gluten-free options. Inside is loud and busy, with orders shouted and music playing even when few people are present. Plenty of seating is available both inside and in a small outdoor garden.

Sesame bagels come super fresh and crunchy. They pair well with a variety of spreads like honey bacon, salmon cream cheese, and scallion cream cheese. Options include toasted or not, with toppings like egg, bacon, or smoked white fish.

Several vegan cream cheese options include a standout vegan scallion tofu cheese that tastes nothing like tofu. A variety of non-dairy spreads are available, and staff clearly explain the vegan and vegetarian choices.

People are saying

"These bagels are the best I ever had, perfectly cooked and seasoned."

"The dairy-free cream cheese options, especially the tofu scallion, are surprisingly tasty."

"I stopped trying other bagel places; this is my go-to for a perfect Sesame Bagel."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait 45 mins to an hour for your food.

2

You have to place your order first and stand in the checkout line with your order form.

3

A smoked salmon bagel with cream cheese costs $17+.

11
Leon's Bagels image 1
Bagel shop

Small shop with a walk-up window and outdoor seating area creates a cozy, laid-back vibe. Friendly staff and colorful aesthetic attract a casual crowd enjoying quick bites. Seating is limited to outside, emphasizing a takeout-focused experience.

Chewy yet light and airy texture defines the sesame bagel here. It pairs well with various cream cheeses like jalapeño or garlic and herbs, and holds up nicely with fillings like bacon, egg, and cheese.

Vegan cream cheese comes in several varieties including a plain tofu cream that is light and not heavy. Bagels can be customized with vegan cream cheese, tomato, cucumber, and capers. A fully vegan bagel option features tofu cream cheese, pesto sautéed kale, tomato, and chili oil.

People are saying

"These bagels are so fresh and delicious, I'd wait in line for them."

"This sesame bagel was fluffy, fresh, and absolutely delicious."

"I loved the dairy-free bagel and vegan cream cheese."

Good to know

1

Ordering through their website for pickup helps avoid the line on weekends.

2

This is a takeout only place.

3

Expect to wait a little bit if you walk up on a weekend morning.

12
Tompkins Square Bagels | East Village Bagels image 1

Open kitchen fills the small space with freshly baked bagel aroma and constant activity. Atmosphere feels lively and chaotic, with a buzzing crowd and limited, crowded seating. Staff and customers contribute to a friendly, energetic vibe in a pup-friendly environment.

Sesame bagels come toasted and pair well with smoked salmon and various cream cheeses like scallion, dill, and chipotle avocado. Some sandwiches on sesame bagels hold together less well and can feel hastily assembled.

Offers over 20 cream cheese flavors including six vegan tofu-based options and gluten-free bagels. Vegan sandwiches feature tofu cream cheese and plant-based sausage with egg and cheese alternatives.

People are saying

"I thought these bagels were the best in the city."

"The dairy-free cream cheese options were so creamy and flavorful."

"I found the sesame bagel delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times of 30-60 minutes, especially on weekends.

2

You must order quickly as there's no time to change your mind.

3

No dine-in available on weekends; it's takeout only.

13
Liberty Bagels Wall Street image 1

Bagel shop offers limited indoor seating mostly at the back, with a layout separating order and pickup areas. Atmosphere is busy and chaotic, often crowded with a loud, fast-paced vibe. Creative touches include a gelato-style cream cheese display featuring unique flavors and rows of bagels showcased at the entrance.

Freshness stands out with the sesame bagels made carefully and full of flavor. The avocado herb sesame bagel adds a tasty twist to the classic options.

An extensive selection of vegan cream cheese flavors and tofu spreads stands out here. Bagels come with vegan options and alternative spreads like hummus.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were the best in the world."

"They offer a great selection of bagels and vegan cream cheese flavors."

"This sesame bagel is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so plan accordingly.

2

They will charge a fee for credit card payments.

3

Liberty Bagels is open from 7 AM to 6 PM daily.

14
Liberty Bagels Midtown image 1

Small bagel shop with limited indoor seating and a few outdoor tables on a busy sidewalk creates a crowded, hectic atmosphere. Loud, energetic staff and constant foot traffic contribute to a classic New York vibe. The space feels tight and chaotic, reflecting its popularity.

Gluten free sesame bagels come chewy, soft, and packed with flavor. The Novie on sesame bagel pairs salmon, avocado, dill cream cheese, and tomato for a refreshing taste.

Most bagels come with vegan options including a wide range of tofu-based cream cheese flavors. Many choices are gluten-free and include vegan fillings like tofutti.

People are saying

"These bagels are super good and delicious."

"Mustafa treated us like family while explaining the sandwich menu."

"The gluten-free sesame bagel was chewy, soft, and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Get there early because they sell out of some bagel varieties.

2

Be prepared to queue as lines are often out the door.

3

There is very limited seating; it's primarily take-out.

15
Russ & Daughters image 1

Bagel shop with a retro style and modern, sleek design offers free cream cheese samples and self-serve seating. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and pleasant during slow times to loud and crowded on busy days. Staff are knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the friendly and energetic vibe.

Sesame bagels come with options like caviar cream cheese and dairy free scallion cream cheese. Mustard on sandwiches can overpower the salmon and sauerkraut flavors, masking the bagel's taste.

Excellent vegan cream cheese options come with gluten-free and sesame bagels. Both regular and vegan cream cheeses are tasty and suitable for lactose-intolerant customers.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be delicious."

"The dairy-free scallion cream cheese is awesome on a bagel."

"You have to try the sesame bagel with all the unique fish and cream cheeses."

Good to know

1

You need to get a ticket before ordering to join the queue.

2

Expect to wait at least 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

To avoid the wait, consider ordering online for pickup.

16
Tompkins Square Bagels | Union Square Bagel Shop image 1

Small bagel shop with crowded layout and fast-moving lines creates a lively, controlled chaos atmosphere. Eclectic decor and a hip vibe blend with a clean, professional environment. Standing tables and limited seating encourage quick visits amid a busy, welcoming crowd.

Sesame bagels come with no seasoning before baking, making them quite bland. They pair with spreads like fig cream cheese or strawberry, and can be served toasted with egg and cheese or with extra bacon on sandwiches.

Many vegan cream cheese flavors are available, including a tofu-based cream cheese that tastes like the real thing. The menu includes a Beyond vegan sandwich and several homemade vegan spreads.

People are saying

"I thought these bagels were some of the best I ever had."

"The dairy-free cream cheese options, like garlic tofu, were delicious."

"The gluten-free sesame bagel is surprisingly decent."

Good to know

1

The wait time for a bagel is typically 30-45 minutes on sunny Sundays.

2

There is no seating available at the bagel shop.

3

It is better to order to-go at this bagel shop.

17
Gotham Bagels - Magnificent Mile image 1

Small bagel shop with authentic New York style bagels and high-quality, freshly made offerings. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting but can get crowded quickly due to limited seating. Music selection adds to the comfortable and welcoming vibe.

Sesame bagels come out baked perfectly and do not need to be toasted. They pair well with basil cream cheese that tastes like pesto or with veggie cream cheese.

Vegan options include two types of vegan cream cheese and avocado fillings. Bagels come with a generous amount of vegan cream cheese, making them creamy and satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be the best I ever had."

"The Sesame Bagel with basil cream cheese is off the charts."

"The dairy-free cream cheese on the bagels is amazing and so creamy."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Prices for bagels and sandwiches are generally high, averaging $15-$20 each.

3

No cash payments are accepted; only credit cards and mobile payments.

18
Modern Bread and Bagel image 1

Bakery offers 100% gluten-free options with vegan and dairy-free choices in a small, chic interior. The space feels crowded and chaotic, with tight seating and a confusing layout. Noise levels rise as the place fills, creating a busy atmosphere.

Sesame bagels come gluten free and hold up well with toppings like cream cheese, salmon, avocado, and tomato. The bagels pair nicely with spicy feta or chive cream cheese for a flavorful twist.

Gluten-free bagels here have a chewy texture close to traditional ones. Vegan cream cheese options include a smooth, light tofu chive spread that stands out.

People are saying

"I thought the gluten-free bagels were the best I've ever had."

"I found the dairy-free bagels to be the best I've ever had."

"You'd never know this sesame bagel was gluten-free; it's that tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is entirely gluten-free, making it suitable for people with coeliac disease.

2

The grill is turned off daily around 3:00 PM, so arrive before then.

3

On Sundays, expect a lot of people at the bagel shop.

19
Curley's Bagels image 1
Bagel shop

Bagel shop with a clean, renovated interior and no indoor seating creates an upbeat, lively atmosphere. Benches outside offer a place to sit and enjoy the surroundings. The vibe feels friendly and cozy despite the busy, loud environment.

Sesame bagels come with the Jersey Boy sandwich, which pairs well with the bagel's texture. The bagels hold up well to toppings and offer a solid base for sandwiches.

Gluten-free bagels and vegan cream cheese are available for those avoiding dairy. The vegan cream cheese offers a delicious alternative to traditional spreads.

People are saying

"These bagels are crispy outside, fluffy inside, and just crazy good."

"I thought this place's sesame bagel was an absolute gem."

"I found the Dairy Free bagels to be the best I had ever eaten."

Good to know

1

BEC is available twice a week.

2

This place is take out only.

3

Customers should get there early because there’s always a line.

20
Popup Bagels image 1
Bagel shop

Small takeout shop with a loud music atmosphere and crowded space creates a lively, energetic vibe. The Instagram-worthy bagels draw a steady crowd, while the no-nonsense style and minimal seating encourage quick visits and outdoor enjoyment.

Sesame bagels have a crisp exterior and stay fluffy inside. The flavor is well-balanced, especially in the Everything Sesame variety.

Vegan cream cheese comes at no extra charge and is served in a squeeze bag rather than a tub. Vegan shmear options and toppings are available, but there are no flavored vegan cream cheese varieties.

People are saying

"These bagels are freshly baked, crispy outside and soft inside."

"This sesame bagel is perfectly fluffy inside with a crisp exterior."

"The dairy-free bagels are warm, soft, and taste really good."

Good to know

1

You have to order a minimum of 3 bagels for $12.

2

The bagel shop is for takeout only.

3

Expect a long line on weekends, but it moves quickly.

21
Ess-a-Bagel image 1
Bagel shop

Bagel shop offers crowded, chaotic atmosphere with long lines and limited indoor seating. The space feels cramped and noisy, with a distinctive aroma filling the air. Customers often find it hectic but appreciate the unique bagel options available.

Toasted sesame bagels come with a generous coating of aromatic seeds. Cream cheese options include fig rosemary and vegan sundried tomato, paired well with whitefish salad or enjoyed on their own.

A vast selection of cream cheeses includes several tofu-based vegan spreads like sundried tomato and sesame. These vegan options cater well to dairy-free diets.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels were fresh and flavorful."

"I loved the sesame bagel with cream cheese and whitefish salad."

"Their dairy-free cream cheese options, especially the tofu ones, are amazing."

Good to know

1

Get there early on Saturday morning to avoid long lines.

2

You can order online to avoid waiting.

3

Arrive early as the lineup can be very long and stretch around the block.

22
Zucker's Bagels and Smoked Fish image 1

Cozy bagel shop with an old school Jewish feel and hand-rolled fresh bagels creates a busy and lively atmosphere. Seating is tight but ample, including a long bar/table for groups. The vibe is authentic and bustling, typical of a New York spot.

Sesame bagels come toasted and hold up well with various toppings like vegan scallion cream cheese, smoked turkey, and cheddar. They serve as a solid base for sandwiches such as tuna melts and turkey with Swiss cheese and fresh veggies.

Lots of vegan options include bagels and non-dairy spreads. The vegan lox bagel and vegan scallion cream cheese stand out for flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I considered these some of the best bagels I've had in NYC."

"I loved the delicious and spicy bagel sandwich."

"I love their great sesame bagels."

Good to know

1

Zuckers opens at 0700 for early breakfast.

2

Ordering online is recommended due to high foot traffic.

3

The bagel sandwich costs $21, so plan your budget accordingly.

23
Gotham Bagels - South loop image 1

New York style bagel shop with exceptional bagels and a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a closed pizza place. Small seating area offers a toasty, relaxed vibe that feels miles away from city life. Known for salting both sides of bagels, it stands out for its unique bagel preparation.

Sesame bagels come with scallion cream cheese and smoked salmon or vegan scallion cream cheese. The combination creates a flavorful, satisfying sandwich.

Offers vegan cream cheese and a vegan scallion cream cheese option on bagels. Vegan sandwich choices are limited and priced around $15 to $16, with some items like the sausage egg and cheese sandwich considered mediocre.

People are saying

"These bagels are delicious with a great crunch and squish."

"The takeout sandwiches are filled to the brim with generous fillings."

"I got a sesame bagel with scallion cream cheese and smoked salmon."

Good to know

1

Prices for bagel sandwiches start around $13.45, which is considered high.

2

There is no seating available, making it a takeout-only experience.

3

Expect a long wait despite a short line during peak hours.

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