Bagel Central

If you are looking for a truly cozy spot for breakfast in Bangor, Bagel Central is a location you simply cannot miss. This popular family-run bakery and cafe brought the classic culture of authentic boiled bagels—reminiscent of legendary New York-style rolls—to the state of Maine, USA.

The establishment is famous for its traditional technique: bagels are boiled first and then baked, giving them their signature crispy crust and a soft, dense interior. The menu features dozens of varieties—from classic sesame and poppy seed to more original flavor combinations, perfectly complemented by various spreads and fillings.

The cozy interior and the constant aroma of fresh coffee create a welcoming atmosphere highly valued by locals and tourists alike. Bagel Central is more than just a place to eat; it is an essential part of the city’s culinary scene, embodying the simplicity and high quality of American cuisine.

For menu details, takeout orders, or more information, you can contact the staff directly. Bagel Central is always ready to delight guests with fresh pastries and hot coffee.

The main ritual at Bagel Central is, of course, tasting the freshest bagels. You can create your perfect sandwich by choosing from over 10 types of bagels and a variety of toppings: from classic cream cheese and smoked salmon to hearty combinations with bacon, egg, or vegetables. Don't forget to order a cup of aromatic coffee, the perfect addition to your meal.

Besides the food, it's simply pleasant to observe local life here. You can grab a table inside to feel the rhythm of Bangor or head to the display cases to snap appetizing photos of the rows of fresh baked goods—the place looks truly photogenic in the morning sunlight.

For those who prefer to stay on the move, taking your order to go is a great idea. With a warm bagel in hand, it’s a pleasure to stroll down Central Street, admiring the city's architecture or heading toward the waterfront. Friendly service and quick turnaround make this spot the perfect start for any tourist itinerary.

The establishment is located at 33 Central St, Bangor, making it highly accessible for visitors. Getting there by car is easy—the bakery is on one of the main downtown streets, and there are parking spaces available nearby.

If you prefer public transportation, use the Bangor Metro buses that run through the city center. The nearest stop is just a 5–10 minute walk from the cafe. For those arriving from Bangor International (BGR) airport, a taxi ride will take about 15–20 minutes.

For those who enjoy walking, Bagel Central is an excellent stop on your route. Popular city spots, such as the Kenduskeag Stream walking area, are within a 10–15 minute walk of the entrance. For precise navigation, using Google Maps is recommended.

The story of this place began with a desire to found a family bakery that would bring the best New York bagel-making traditions to northern Maine. From the very beginning, Bagel Central focused on the authentic technique of boiling the dough before baking, which quickly set it apart from competitors in Bangor.

Over the years, the establishment has become a true local icon. The secret of its success lies in family recipes passed down through generations and the consistent use of fresh, local ingredients. On popular travel portals like TripAdvisor, travelers often describe this place as a portal to the classic East Coast atmosphere.

The evolution of the bakery’s menu reflects the culinary development of the entire region. Gradually, classic items were joined by modern variations and seasonal offerings that reflect the tastes of New England residents. Today, Bagel Central is seen not just as a cafe, but as a vital part of the city's cultural and culinary landscape.

A visit to Bagel Central won't take much of your time, which is convenient for a busy sightseeing day. On average, guests spend 30–60 minutes here to fully enjoy the atmosphere and the food. About 15 minutes of this is usually spent choosing and ordering, while the rest is for a leisurely breakfast or lunch in the cozy dining area.

If you plan to take fresh pastries to go, your visit will take only 10–20 minutes. This is an excellent option for those who want a quick snack while walking through the city's historic streets or are rushing to an appointment.

The bakery opens its doors very early, making it the perfect spot for "early birds." From Monday to Friday, Bagel Central is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On weekends—Saturday and Sunday—it closes a bit earlier, operating from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Please note that the cafe is open daily without a lunch break.

Visiting this cozy bakery in the heart of the city is just the beginning of your introduction to Bangor. Its location makes it easy to combine breakfast or lunch with exploring interesting historical and natural sites located literally just steps away.

A walk around the neighborhood will reveal the region's industrial past, cozy parks, and modern entertainment venues. Below are the nearest interesting places to include in your itinerary.