Willow's Bagels — Restaurant in Burlington

Willow's has become a staple breakfast/lunch spot for me. I am very grateful that the business survived the pandemic, as family and locally owned economy is the foundation of our state and city.

There are many ingredients to choose from, allowing for this bagel shop to outshine some of its competition in terms of personalization. The vegan and gluten free choices are the majority, so to those of you with moderate dietary restrictions - don't be shy.

The staff are polite but not stiff, and I appreciate the relative informality - it's a low-key and nonjudgmental space for all walks of life. I hope that someday they restart indoor seating, but they are understandably limited on space and I won't count it against them.

The bagels are bready, New York style, and well flavored. There are many house sandwiches to choose from, and I enjoy their seasonal pastries or seasonal ingredients (it's fun to see the creativity!).

If you go to Willow's expecting to be given the most prestigious bagel in all the land, you may be disappointed. This is a casual take out bagel shop, with hearty meals, tasty treats, and classic beverage options. Enjoy it for what it is, take a seat outside in the sun, and...

I usually stop at the Onion City Co Op on most trips to Burlington, and I had no idea this gem was right around the corner!! I’ll definitely be getting a bagel sandwich and baked good from here regularly. I tried the Rusko’s Carrot “Laux,” and it was more than I hoped it’d be — so hearty and flavorful. I loved the brine-y carrots and capers with the juicy tomatoes, bite of the red onion, and hefty schmear of cream cheese. There’s a reason why lox bagels are so popular, and if you’re vegan and gluten free, you won’t be missing out!! The carrot cake muffin was also super solid, and there was a lil personalized doodle on my bag — it made my day. Can’t wait to try more from Willow’s Bagels!

Update 7/13 - Came back to try the Cassie because I could not stop thinking about MAPLE CAYENNE PEANUT BUTTER. Like?? Why have I never thought to make my pb spicy? I will be doing so moving forward. Anyway, the gf bagel was great, the ratios were spot on, and all the employees are really nice!! Pro tip: ask them to cut gluten free bagel sandwiches because they are SO MUCH EASIER to eat that way (but maybe don’t ask if you’re very sensitive to cross...

I have stopped in here several times and I've had the pleasure of trying many things on the menu. First off: all of the staff are great. They're friendly, helpful, knowledgeable of the menu. 2nd: If you're vegan and looking for a variety of options for bagel spreads, this is your place. The changing variety of vegan flavored "cream cheese" is a welcome change of pace. I recommend the Caramelized Onion & Pesto. Also the bagels themselves are great. I'm a big fan of the Fennel and Sesame Seed options, but you can't go wrong. Crunchy outside, soft and tasty inside. I haven't had one I didn't like yet. Another unique item is the bagel bomb! Try a bagel bomb! Rad little bagel bites filled with a variety of feelings. I had the Sweet Potato, Field Roast, and Cherry Tomato.

The sandwich variety is great as well. The Tri-Force is a favorite for my partner, and the rest of the menu is super enticing for omnis and veg(etari)ans alike.

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