One of my favorite habitual childhood memories was ever so often being treated to lunch at Steve’s Bagels. I always looked forward to the tasty comfort of my usual order – scallion cream cheese with lox and tomato on a toasted poppy seed bagel, a MASSIVE chocolate scone split with my mom, and a creamy Nesquik chocolate milk. Nothing was ever unappetizing, thus I always left with a full belly and a big smile!
After returning home from my Freshman year of college this past May, I was flummoxed, and quite frankly very upset with the closing down of the Steve’s Bagels that I grew up with. Optimistic to indulge in the same flavors that I used to eat, I decided to lunch at the replacement – Ridgefield Bagels & Bakes – and my goodness, was I surprised! For context, I have always recognized the integrity and validity of the notable proverb “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” However, there is an underlying message hidden from thought. Although something isn’t broken, that is by no means an indicator that there is no room for improvement. After walking into the café, I was astonished by the visual renovations. No longer was the interior lackluster, but rather displayed a beautiful modern take on a bagel shop. After ordering my usual cravings, the food was served quickly and just as I wanted – warm and filled with love! To be frank, the poppy seed bagel was to die for! A nice crispy exterior surrounded with a generous coating of seasoning, with a soft and puffy inside – without question reminiscent of a classic New York City bagel. Thankfully, the original scones recipe remained a key piece of their menu, allowing myself and other Ridgefield natives to enjoy the iconic staple. In addition, after speaking with both new owners – Emily and Gary – I learned of their various new additions, including more diverse sweets, further drink options, and even live music! Emily’s background in pastries is so apparent, especially proven with the mouth watering taste of the cinnamon rolls, coffee cake, donuts, muffins, etc. (Obviously, I had to take some home for my parents to enjoy as well…)
Of course, I can no longer dine at the exact spot from my childhood, but in all honesty, the new owners have developed a destination better than a typical bagel joint. I am sure that this new generation in town will develop their own fond memories at Ridgefield Bagels & Bakes, just as I had at Steve’s Bagels, and I will definitely indulge here again (frequently). Highly...
Read moreIf heaven had a breakfast counter, it would taste exactly like this.
Tucked into the heart of Ridgefield, this local bagel shop isn’t just a place to grab a quick bite — it’s a full-blown experience for your taste buds. From the moment you walk in, the warm scent of fresh-baked dough wraps around you like a cozy blanket. You instantly know you’ve come to the right place.
The bagels? Absolutely phenomenal. Perfectly crisp on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside — the kind of texture that only comes from true bagel mastery. Whether you're a classic sesame fan or the type to chase down wild flavor combos (hello, jalapeño cheddar!), there's something here that will make your mouth water.
And the spreads — don’t even get me started. House-made cream cheeses that range from silky smooth scallion to strawberry honey. Every schmear is crafted with care, and you can taste the freshness in every bite.
But what really elevates this shop is the vibe. The staff are as warm as the fresh bagels, greeting regulars by name and offering suggestions to newcomers with genuine enthusiasm. It’s a place where locals gather, where kids munch happily after soccer games, and where even a gloomy Monday morning feels a little brighter.
Whether you're a Ridgefield native or just passing through, this bagel shop is a must-visit. It’s not just the best bagel in town — it’s one of the best you’ll find anywhere.
5 stars, no question. Just go — and...
Read moreRidgefield Bagels & Bakes, located in the heart of Ridgefield, CT, is a delightful spot for bagel enthusiasts and bakery lovers alike. The ambiance of the place is warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a casual breakfast or a mid-morning snack.
One of the standout features of Ridgefield Bagels & Bakes is the quality and freshness of their bagels. They offer a wide variety of flavors, from classic plain and sesame to more adventurous options like asiago and everything bagels. The texture is perfect – crisp on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. Their spreads and toppings, particularly the homemade cream cheeses, are rich and flavorful, adding an extra layer of indulgence to each bite.
In addition to their bagels, the bakery section is equally impressive. The selection includes an array of pastries, muffins, and cookies, all baked to perfection. The chocolate chip cookies are a particular favorite, boasting the perfect balance of gooey and crispy. Their muffins, often still warm from the oven, are moist and packed with fresh ingredients.
The pricing is reasonable, given the quality and portion sizes, making it a great...
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