Western Bagels: the chewy, golden, ring-shaped bread that has captured breakfast hearts (and stomachs) across LA. But behind their toasty exterior lies a passionate divide—sweet vs. savory. It’s more than just a topping preference. It’s a lifestyle. So today, we’re digging into both sides of the bagel spectrum to explore what makes each one beloved—and which one might be the better pick (spoiler: there’s no wrong answer).
The Case for Sweet Bagels
Sweet bagels offer a cozy, often nostalgic eating experience. Think toasted cinnamon raisin with a generous smear of butter. Or a blueberry bagel drizzled with honey. Sweet Western Bagels bring dessert energy to the breakfast table, often without going full sugar overload.
Popular Sweet Flavors:
- Cinnamon Raisin
- Cinnamon Crunch
- Blueberry
- Chocolate Chip
- Strabwberry
Why People Love Them:
- They’re great for breakfast or a quick snack.
- They pair beautifully with coffee or tea.
- They satisfy a sweet tooth without being too indulgent.
- Kids (and adults with a soft spot for sweets) love them.
Best Toppings:
- Strawberry cream cheese
- Strawberry or Grape Jam
- Butter
The Case for Savory Bagels
Savory bagels are bold, flavor-packed, and often messy in the best way possible. Whether it’s an everything Western Bagel stacked with lox, capers, and onion or a jalapeño cheese bagel loaded with eggs and bacon, savory bagels deliver a meal, not just a bite.
Popular Savory Flavors:
- Everything
- Sesame
- Onion
- Poppy Seed
- Pumpernickel
Why People Love Them:
- They’re filling and often protein-packed.
- They play well with both traditional and gourmet ingredients.
- They feel like a “real” meal.
- They’re a brunch essential.
Best Toppings:
- Lox + cream cheese
- Bacon, egg & cheese
- Avocado + tomato
- Cucumbers
The Great Bagel Debate: Is One Better?
Here’s the truth: Western Bagels are a versatile blank canvas. Whether you prefer sweet or savory depends on your mood, your taste buds, and maybe even the weather.
Sweet bagel lovers:
You probably enjoy cozy mornings, autumn flavors, and the smell of cinnamon. Your vibe is “comfort food, but make it cute.”
Savory bagel lovers:
You go for bold flavors, robust toppings, and tend to turn your bagel into a full-blown sandwich. You’re all about that umami.
The real winner? Us. Because we get to eat both.
There’s no need to pick a side permanently—sweet and savory Western Bagels deserve a spot on your plate (and in your heart). The real fun is exploring new combinations, experimenting with toppings, and maybe even creating your signature Western Bagel flavor.
So next time you’re standing in line at Western Bagel, don’t stress about the sweet vs. savory debate. Just ask yourself: What kind of delicious mood am I in today?
Are you Team Sweet or Team Savory?
