If you’ve been hunting for the best bagels in Tempe, Arizona, the search is over. Bagelfeld’s just opened its second location at 5154 S. Rural Rd., and it’s already winning over locals who take their breakfast seriously. These are not grocery store bagels. These are the real thing.
A Brooklyn Recipe, Right Here in Tempe
The story behind Bagelfeld’s starts with one man, one kitchen, and a lot of free time during a pandemic. Owner Charles Blonkenfeld, a Brooklyn-born chef, began boiling and baking bagels at home in August 2020 after experimenting with dough during the COVID lockdown.
He started selling at Valley farmers markets, quickly built a cult following, and opened a Phoenix brick-and-mortar in 2022. Now, Tempe gets its own spot.
The Bagel Lineup
Bagelfeld’s keeps its menu focused on quality over quantity. Every bagel is made fresh in small batches, boiled, and baked for that chewy inside and crackling crust that New York bagel lovers know and miss. Current flavors include:
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Plain, Everything, Sesame, Poppy Seed — the classics, done properly
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Jalapeño Cheddar — one of the most requested flavors on the menu
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Blueberry — sweet, soft, and a solid morning choice
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Salt and Asiago — no frills, just great flavor
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Fennel Raisin and Olive Rosemary Orange — Saturday-only specials that go fast
Tasting Table specifically called out “the sheer perfection of the crispy coating, which creates the perfect crackle with every bite.” That’s a good reason to set an alarm.
The Schmears Are Just as Good
You can order a plain bagel, but the in-house cream cheese spreads at Bagelfeld’s are too good to skip. Current flavors include:
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Pepper Garlic — the crowd pleaser, rich and bold
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Smoked Salmon — smooth and a little luxurious
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Honey Brown Butter — sweet with a warm, nutty finish
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Lemon Herb — bright and fresh, great on savory bagels
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Chipotle Maple — sweet meets spicy in the best way
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Mixed Berry — pairs perfectly with blueberry or plain
Seasonal flavors rotate, so regulars always have something new to look forward to each visit.
Nationally Recognized, Locally Loved
Bagelfeld’s has picked up some serious recognition since opening:
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Best Bagels in Arizona — named by Tasting Table
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One of the 24 Best Bagel Shops in the U.S. — listed by Bon Appétit in 2023
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Best of Phoenix winner for best bagels in both 2022 and 2023 from Phoenix New Times
What People Are Saying
The reviews from customers say it is better than any ad could:
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“As a former New Yorker, I love a good bagel. Has the same crispiness and consistency as a real NY bagel!”
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“One of the few places I’d pay $5 for a single bagel and cream cheese. The pepper garlic cream cheese is just delicious.”
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“The bagels were fresh and amazing, like I was back in NYC.”
Plan Your Visit
Before you head over, here’s what you need to know:
Address: 5154 S. Rural Rd., Tempe, AZ 85282
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, open at 6:00 AM
Closed: Sunday and Monday
A few things to keep in mind:
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Bagels sell out early, sometimes before noon. Arriving before 9 AM is your best bet.
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Saturday specials like Fennel Raisin and Olive Rosemary Orange go first.
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Online orders are available and worth using if you want your picks guaranteed.
Bagelfeld’s Tempe is one of those spots that quickly becomes part of your weekly routine. Whether you’re an ASU student grabbing a quick breakfast, a Tempe local supporting a quality small business, or just someone who refuses to settle for a mediocre bagel, this place is worth the early wake-up. Come hungry, and get there before the good ones are gone.
Want more local business spotlights from across the East Valley? Browse fresh picks every week at East Valley Loop; you might find your next favorite spot just around the corner.
Sources: bagelfeld.com, yelp.com, Bagelfeld’s Facebook Page, Bagelfeld’s Instagram Page
Header Image Source: melanie boers on Unsplash
