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Cream cheese bagels and dairy-free options

A dairy-free bagel spread that actually mimics the texture of cream cheese instead of settling for a watery substitute.

Based on 171 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Apollo Bagels image 1
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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.

Bagels come with cream cheese and tomato or smoked salmon and cream cheese. Both combinations taste fresh and flavorful.

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."

"This cream cheese bagel is the best I've ever had."

"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.

02
Broad Nosh Bagels Deli & Catering 42nd Street image 1

Bagel shop serves varied cream cheese flavors like blueberry and olive on garlic and Parmesan bagels. Vegan and gluten-free options shine with a clearly labeled dairy-free menu. Cozy, dog-friendly atmosphere with fast, personal service and occasional live music.

Bagels come with varied cream cheese flavors like blueberry, olive, and spinach. Options include toppings like nova lox, red onion, tomato, and avocado on different bagel types such as garlic and Parmesan.

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."

"Robert was so nice, he even offered a cream cheese bagel on the house."

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.

03
Bagels & Schmear image 1

Small bagel shop with limited indoor seating and a few outdoor tables on a quiet street. Atmosphere ranges from quiet to hectic and fast-paced during busy times. Known for fresh, highly praised bagels and a casual, takeout-focused setup.

Bagels come with cream cheese in classic and special combos like salmon with chive cream cheese. Options include everything bagels topped with avocado, cabbage, cucumber, tomato, red onions, and smoked salmon.

Multiple flavors of vegan cream cheese are available, including a super airy, creamy tofu-based option with no weird aftertaste. Vegan bagels pair well with these dairy-free schmears.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be amazing."

"The dairy-free cream cheese is airy, creamy, and fantastic."

"I found the cream cheese bagel to be very tasty and filling."

Good to know

1

On weekends, expect long lines that can go out the door.

2

Timing your visit closer to 10:00 AM helps avoid rush hour crowds.

3

Under $6 requires cash; there's a $6 minimum for card payments.

04
Liberty Bagels Jackson Heights image 1

Cozy bagel shop with a clean interior and a small sit-down area near the entrance. Atmosphere feels warm and hospitable, with comfortable seating for eating in. Offers a wide variety of flavorful bagels and spreads, known for fresh, fluffy bagels and affordable prices.

Blueberry bagels with cream cheese stand out for their sweet flavor and smooth texture. Everything bagels with cream cheese come with a hearty saltiness that some might find strong.

Fresh bagels come with vegan spreads that serve as good cream cheese alternatives. Vegan options include a bagel breakfast sandwich enjoyed by those avoiding dairy.

People are saying

"These bagels are amazing and always fresh."

"I found a really good dairy-free cream cheese alternative here."

"I thought the Cream Cheese Bagel was really delicious."

Good to know

1

There is no wait at 8:30 AM on a weekday.

2

Coffee and a bagel cost under $7.

3

They now only take orders in person or via Uber Eats.

05
Bagel to Sandwich image 1

Small shop buzzes with energizing K-pop and a bagel display wall. Bagels come with cream cheese, including plain and everything varieties. Vegan options shine with vegan cream cheese and meats like pepperoni, making it great for dairy-free diets.

Everything and plain bagels come with cream cheese. Plain toasted bagels with cream cheese cost around $5. Egg sandwiches often include toasted bagels with cream cheese.

Offers a wide range of vegan meats and cheeses including vegan pepperoni and ham. Vegan bagels come with options like the Vegan Supreme and vegan cream cheese from Stockeld Dreamery.

People are saying

"These bagels are delicious and generously topped with fresh ingredients."

"I was impressed by the huge variety of delicious dairy-free options here."

"The plain cream cheese bagel was so delicious."

Good to know

1

There is limited seating, so donโ€™t plan on eating in.

2

Paying cash avoids the extra credit card charge.

3

The price for a huge egg, bacon, salad, and cheese bagel is $11.50.

06
GRIND THE NYC COFFEE SHOP & BAGEL HOUSE image 1

Coffee shop offers an authentic Greek design with green chairs and wood accents and real plants creating a warm, welcoming vibe. Loud music fills the space, which is open and airy with plenty of seating including outdoor tables. Atmosphere suits working, socializing, or relaxing away from city stress.

Bagels come with cream cheese options including a lox cream cheese and a tofu cream cheese for vegan preferences. Both the classic and vegan versions offer strong, flavorful profiles.

Vegan options include a blueberry croissant and a tofu cream cheese bagel. Coffee comes with soy milk but no lactose-free milk.

People are saying

"I experienced the best coffee in the city."

"The coffee is delicious with many dairy-free milk options."

"The cream cheese bagel here is super delicious."

Good to know

1

A bagel with cream cheese and a cup of coffee costs $14.

2

The cafรฉ opens before 7am for early customers.

3

The price of macaroons is $17.

07
NYC Bagel & Coffee House (NYCBCH) image 1

Wood-heavy interior with natural light creates a warm vibe. Bagels shine with vegan cream cheese options, especially on plain and cinnamon walnut raisin. Extensive dairy-free menu includes tofu spreads in four flavors, perfect on rainbow bagels.

Bagels come with vegan cream cheese options that stand out for their quality. Some bagels like the plain cream cheese and cinnamon walnut raisin pair well, though others like the sesame with dill and cucumber lack flavor.

Offers an extensive menu with vegan cream cheese and tofu spread options in four flavors. Rainbow bagels pair well with the variety of vegan spreads available.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be crazy good and delicious."

"I found the atmosphere to be cozy and comfortable."

"I found the cream cheese bagel to be really, really delicious."

Good to know

1

NYCB&CH opens at 6:00 am, which works well for early risers.

2

The shop offers a plethora of options for bagels and coffee.

3

They offer dairy-free and gluten-free options that are delicious.

08
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.

Everything Bagels come with cream cheese and often include scallion or bacon scallion cream cheese options. Bagels with cream cheese pair well with salmon or egg and cheese for variety.

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 thought their Cream Cheese Bagel was the best in the city."

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+.

09
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.

Bagels come with cream cheese paired with options like sturgeon or smoked salmon. The combinations range from classic lox to more elevated versions like the Daughter's Delight.

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 classic salmon and cream cheese bagel was incredible."

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

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.

10
Broad Nosh Bagels 49th St image 1

Bagel shop offers warm, inviting atmosphere with friendly owner interaction. Bagels stand out for their soft interior and crunchy exterior, paired with fresh, flavorful fillings. The space feels comfortable and welcoming, making it a solid spot for a satisfying meal.

Cream cheese pairs with bagels in several tasty ways, including lox, strawberry, and blueberry flavors. The French toast bagel also comes with cream cheese, adding a sweet twist.

Offers a variety of vegan options including vegan cream cheese. Includes gluten-free and dairy-free choices.

People are saying

"Lucas gave me excellent recommendations for the bagels."

"The owner Robert was super nice with the Cream Cheese Bagel."

"I found so many amazing vegan options, including cream cheese."

Good to know

1

Expect a busy morning rush, especially on weekends.

2

Limited seating available; consider takeout during peak hours.

3

Parking may be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

11
Broad Nosh Bagels Deli & Catering 58th Street image 1

Bagel shop with chaotic atmosphere marked by constant order calls and a crowded interior. Offers limited indoor seating with some outdoor options and multiple air conditioners to ease the heat. Known for wide cream cheese variety, including vegan options, and highly praised bagels.

Bagels come with cream cheese in several tasty varieties like smoked salmon, scallion, and mango. Options include a gluten free jalapeรฑo cream cheese bagel and classic plain with cream cheese.

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 cream cheese bagels are fresh, chewy, and perfectly toasted."

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

Thereโ€™s a long line at 10am on a Saturday.

12
Liberty Bagels 5th Ave image 1

Long, narrow bakery with limited seating creates a crowded, hectic atmosphere where customers often stand close together. Music adds to the busy energy, and the place moves efficiently despite the tight space.

Everything bagels with cream cheese stand out, especially with additions like salmon or eggs and avocado. Blueberry cream cheese with scallions and sesame seed bagels also appear as popular choices, showing variety in flavors and toppings.

Many vegan cream cheese options come in both sweet and savory varieties. A large selection of vegan bagels and toppings makes dairy-free choices easy.

People are saying

"These hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels are huge and have a perfectly chewy inside."

"The bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich was hot and fresh."

"This Cream Cheese Bagel is fresh, crunchy, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait a while for a bagel in the afternoon due to staffing issues.

2

The ordering system is confusing; you order at the back without seeing the menu.

3

It should take no more than 15-20 minutes to get a bagel sandwich during busy times.

13
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.

Bagels come with cream cheese paired with options like pastrami lox or Nova salmon. Variations include avocado and vegan sausage, egg, and cheese for savory choices.

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."

"They have all kinds of cream cheese for your bagel."

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.

14
Nalaโ€™s Bagel and Brunch image 1

Bagel shop offers everything bagels with cream cheese and tasty roasted beef options. Vegan spreads and plain vegan cream cheese cater to dairy-free needs. Cozy vibe with high ceilings and blue walls makes it great for quick or leisurely meals.

Everything bagels come with cream cheese and often include extras like lox, onion, and capers. Roasted beef bagels with cream cheese offer a tasty twist on the classic combo.

Wide variety of vegan spreads and plain vegan cream cheese are available. Many vegetarian and vegan options appear on the menu.

People are saying

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

"The cream cheese bagel is fresh and tasty."

"The bagels here are amazing, with a great chew."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $10 for a bagel with egg and cheese.

2

Seating is limited, so be prepared for a wait during busy hours.

3

You can taste different cream cheeses before making a choice.

15
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.

Cream cheese pairs with a variety of bagels like the rainbow bagel, classic nova, and everything bagel. Options include plain cream cheese and flavored types like strawberry cream cheese and combinations with salmon or bacon, egg, and cheese.

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."

"I was so satisfied for hours after eating the cream cheese bagel."

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.

16
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.

Everything and sesame bagels come with cream cheese and options like lox or gravlax. The amount of cream cheese varies, and dill cream cheese pairs well with smoked salmon.

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."

"You have to try the espresso cream cheese bagel."

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.

17
Bagel Market image 1
Bagel shop

Two-floor bagel shop with open kitchen where bagels are hand-rolled and baked fresh. Atmosphere is vibrant and energetic, with a mix of cozy and modern elements, though seating can be basic and sometimes warm. Offers vegan options and plenty of seating, attracting a diverse crowd for morning bites.

Everything, blueberry, and cinnamon raisin bagels come with cream cheese that matches well with toppings like lox and salmon. The Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagel stands out for its flavor.

Many vegan and dairy-free spreads are available, including flavored tofu cream cheese. Bagels come with various vegan cream cheese toppings and combos.

People are saying

"These bagels are the best I ever had."

"I loved the vegan cream cheese with so many topping combos."

"I had the Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagel."

Good to know

1

The price for a big overstuffed bagel is $8.

2

The wait for a bagel is the longest in NYC.

3

The restaurant does not have gluten-free options.

18
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.

Everything bagels come with toasted cream cheese options like chives and garlic or scallion. Nova and lox pair well with cream cheese on sesame or plain bagels, all at reasonable prices.

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."

"I found the cream cheese bagel simply amazing."

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.

19
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.

Bagels come thick with an ample spread of cream cheese. Options include lox cream cheese and flavored varieties like blueberry and birthday cake cream cheese.

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."

"I thought the cream cheese bagel was one of the best I ever had."

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.

20
Broad Nosh Bagels Deli & Catering image 1

Narrow shop with cramped layout and limited seating fills quickly with a constant flow of customers, creating a loud, chaotic atmosphere. Small tables inside and outside offer spots to eat amid the busy vibe. The place feels warm and inviting despite the hustle.

Scooped out, not overstuffed lox and scallion cream cheese bagels stand out here. Cinnamon raisin and French Toast bagels come with slightly sweet cream cheese that complements their flavors well.

Numerous vegan cream cheese spreads are available alongside other vegan options. The vegan bagel spreads stand out for variety and flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels were top tier and incredible."

"I found the cream cheese bagel to be the best I ever had."

"I loved the dairy-free cream cheese options."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

The ordering process is confusing, requiring customers to order at two different counters.

3

There is no bathroom available for customers at this bagel shop.

21
Modern Bread and Bagel image 1

Gluten-free bakery with best gluten-free bagels and artisanal bread offers mostly outdoor seating with heated patio and benches. Atmosphere feels modern and inviting but indoor space lacks tables and is limited. Energy is slow with some inefficiencies in layout and service.

Soft bagels come with cream cheese in several tasty combos like lox with jalapeรฑo cream cheese and cinnamon raisin with blueberry cream cheese. Fresh toppings like guacamole and salmon add extra flavor to the bagels.

Gluten-free and vegan options cover most of the menu, including bagels topped with avocado and pickled onions. Vegan cream cheese made from tofu and vegan meat choices add variety and flavor.

People are saying

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

"I found amazing vegan options, like cream cheese and cupcakes."

"I loved my plain gluten-free bagel with cream cheese."

Good to know

1

Everything at this place is gluten free.

2

The entire restaurant is dedicated gluten-free, making it a must-visit for any Celiac or gluten-sensitive people.

3

You should order ahead and pick it up to avoid waiting in the long line.

22
Tompkins Square Bagels | Upper East Side Bagels image 1

Spacious bagel shop with an airy, bright interior and a large outdoor patio offering ample seating. The atmosphere carries a classic New York bagel energy, busy yet welcoming with friendly staff ready to assist. Open kitchen design lets patrons watch bagels being boiled and baked, adding to the lively vibe.

Salmon avocado cream cheese bagel offers a generous portion suitable for sharing. Blueberry cream cheese bagel exists but may not stand out as much.

Wide assortment of bagels, cream cheeses, and flavored vegan spreads fills the menu. Vegan egg, cheese, and sausage sandwiches exist but often run out, limiting availability.

People are saying

"These bagels are amazing and super fresh."

"The staff here is so friendly, it's amazing."

"The Cream Cheese Bagel is crispy outside and chewy inside."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during busy mornings.

2

A blueberry bagel costs over $5, which some may find expensive.

3

You need to order drinks or other items separately when paying for a bagel.

23
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.

Bagels come with a gluten-free everything option and a variety of cream cheese fillings. Prices run around seven dollars for a bagel with cream cheese, which some find high.

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."

"The service for my Cream Cheese Bagel was fast and friendly."

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.

24
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.

Everything bagel with cream cheese and chives stands out as a simple but tasty choice. Pumpernickel bagels with cream cheese also offer a delicious option. Lines can get long, so timing matters.

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 sautรฉed kale, tomato, and chili oil.

People are saying

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

"The cream cheese bagel is excellent, fresh, and soft."

"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.

25
BO's Bagels image 1
Bagel shop

Small, bustling bagel shop with limited seating and a loud, crowded atmosphere. Interior design draws attention, creating a distinctive vibe despite the stuffy air. Busy weekend mornings lead to long waits, often requiring digital ordering ahead.

Bagels come with cream cheese and various toppings like lox. Options include toasted everything and blueberry bagels. Orders sometimes arrive as separate bagels with cream cheese rather than combined.

Wide variety of vegan options includes several non-dairy cream cheeses like tofu scallion, tofu veggie, and tofu maple walnut. Bagels come with non-dairy spreads and vegan toppings.

People are saying

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

"I found the Cream Cheese Bagel to be quite excellent."

"The dairy-free tofu spreads on the bagels are fantastic."

Good to know

1

The wait times can be 30-45 minutes on Sundays due to church rush.

2

Order ahead during busy breakfast times to avoid long waits.

3

Prices are on the high side, with a baker's dozen costing $23.90.

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