I think we can all agree that we’ve been through that two-month phase where we totally forget that bagels exist, but when that period ends, we immediately become obsessed. To cure this craving, the Tampa Bay area has finally hit the jackpot when it comes to authentic bagels. As it recently opened, The Bagel Nook has been attracting customers from all over our community since then.
Getting its awareness from mostly social media content, The Bagel Nook opened its first Florida location back in November of 2025. With most stores ranging on the east coast from New Jersey to Mississippi, Tampa locals are happy to welcome the crazy breakfast sandwiches.
Off of North Ashley Drive and West Cass Street, The Bagel Nook can be found across from the Straz Center. From Steinbrenner High School, it is about a 30-minute drive. The ride wasn’t awful, however, as a teenager, once you arrive in downtown Tampa, it can be hard to navigate the city, and the traffic differs depending on the time. Adding in parking, there are only a few parallel spots right out front. There is also a parking garage a short walk away, costing three dollars an hour. Just for bagels, I would have to say that it is a little far, but if you’re willing to make the drive, there is available parking around.
Having to choose between crazy combinations or your classic favorites, The Bagel Nook has it all. Most popular for its bagels, they also carry other breakfast items, including omelets, pancakes, french toast, and many different types of sandwiches. During my most recent visit, we ordered the Big B Asiago bagel paired with Bacon Scallion cream cheese, while my friend ordered a Cinnamon Sugar bagel with Nutella cream cheese. All We have to say is they were absolutely delicious.
The Big B Asiago bagel is different from its traditional form. Flip it upside down and find that this version includes everything bagels seeds added to the cheese. The flavors were melting on my tongue; the bacon matched perfectly with the savoriness of the asiago cheese and everything bagel seasoning.
The Cinnamon Sugar bagel with Nutella cream cheese was everything a sweet tooth would dream of. The cinnamon was glazed on top of the crisp toasted bagel and provided a sweetness that’s not too overpowering for breakfast food. The Nutella cream cheese added a creamy and chocolatey twist that paired perfectly with the bagel’s flavor. While the bagel was messy and left a sticky residue on your hands, it was well worth it for the taste.
The food tasted even better, knowing that it was in the hands of people who love their job. As you walk into the store, you’re immediately greeted by the warm and friendly ambiance. Taken in by sight and smell of warm breakfast food, you almost feel obligated to order something. The people were charismatic and the service was efficient. Coming out perfectly toasted, it took less than ten minutes to receive the food. Though, the seating was limited. There were a few tables outside to sit at with a view of the Straz Center, but no seating was available inside. If there were more seating, the vibe could’ve carried outside, continuing the experience.
Overall, our experience at The Bagel Nook was impressive and not disappointing. We would give it 4.5 out of 5 stars only because of the farther drive. We would highly recommend this place to anybody looking for a unique breakfast experience and is caught stuck in their own bagel obsession.
