There’s something deeply comforting about biting into a warm, fresh bagel with a crispy crust and chewy center. Whether you like them plain, everything, sesame, or cinnamon raisin, one thing is certain: great bagels are an art form. And while every region has its own take, a few cities in America have truly perfected the craft.
Let’s take a delicious journey through some of the best bagel destinations in the U.S.—and we’ll show you how pairing them with premium smoked salmon lox can turn your breakfast or brunch into something extraordinary.
1. New York City, NY — The Gold Standard
When it comes to bagels, New York City reigns supreme. The water, the tradition, the technique—it all comes together to create the iconic NYC bagel. Head to legendary spots like Russ & Daughters, Ess-a-Bagel, or Absolute Bagels to experience the classic: a perfectly boiled bagel, sliced and generously topped with a smear of cream cheese and silky, hand-sliced smoked salmon.
💡 Pro tip: For the ultimate flavor pairing, skip the generic deli salmon and elevate your bite with premium Jet Set Sam smoked salmon lox. Wild-caught from pristine Canadian waters and expertly smoked, it’s buttery, rich, and made to shine atop a perfect NYC bagel.
2. Montreal-Inspired Bagels in the U.S.
Montreal bagels are smaller, denser, and slightly sweeter than their New York counterparts, often baked in wood-fired ovens. You don’t have to head to Canada to enjoy them—check out Black Seed Bagels in NYC or Beauty’s Bagel Shop in Oakland, CA for an authentic twist.
Pair a sesame Montreal-style bagel with a layer of whipped cream cheese and a few slices of maple smoked lox from Jet Set Sam to bring out the subtle sweetness in both the fish and the bagel. It’s a match made in gourmet heaven.
3. Chicago, IL — The Underrated Gem
Chicago may be known for deep dish, but their bagel scene is quietly gaining traction. Steingold’s of Chicago offers hand-rolled, boiled bagels with inventive toppings, while Brobagel keeps things classic with a Chicago twist.
A toasted poppy seed bagel from Chicago paired with cold-smoked sockeye lox is an indulgent combination that brings together the richness of the Midwest with the clean flavors of the Pacific Coast.
4. Los Angeles, CA — The West Coast Rise
L.A. has quickly become a serious player in the bagel world. Spots like Courage Bagels and Yeastie Boys are leading the charge, offering artisanal bagels with a Californian flair—think heirloom tomatoes, cultured butter, and sustainably sourced smoked salmon.
And speaking of smoked salmon, nothing beats the taste of wild Canadian lox on a West Coast-style bagel. Try Jet Set Sam’s lox on a toasted sourdough bagel for a fresh, luxurious twist.
5. Portland, OR — Craft Bagels and Bold Flavors
Portland’s food scene is full of innovation, and bagels are no exception. Kenny & Zuke’s and Henry Higgins Boiled Bagels are go-to spots for those who love handmade quality.
Top your Portland-style bagel with spicy cream cheese and a few slices of Jet Set Sam’s pepper-smoked salmon lox for an elevated experience packed with flavor and texture.
Why Bagels and Smoked Salmon Are a Classic Pairing
Bagels and smoked salmon have stood the test of time for good reason: the contrast of chewy, carb-y comfort with the buttery, savory richness of smoked fish is irresistible. Add a dollop of cream cheese, maybe a few capers and red onions, and you have a balanced, satisfying meal any time of day.
But like with bagels, not all smoked salmon is created equal.
If you’re looking to bring this iconic pairing to your own kitchen, we highly recommend trying Jet Set Sam’s Smoked Salmon Lox. Sustainably sourced, expertly cured, and cold-smoked for flavor that truly shines—it’s the perfect partner for any bagel, anywhere.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a bagel purist or someone who loves to experiment with flavors, America has a bagel for you. And when you top it with high-quality smoked salmon like Jet Set Sam’s, you’re not just having breakfast—you’re having a culinary experience.
So go ahead: toast that bagel, spread the cream cheese, and layer on the lox. Your taste buds will thank you.