42nd Street Bagel Cafe

42nd Street Bagel Cafe in Claremont feels like the neighborhood spot where bagel lovers and breakfast seekers come to satisfy straightforward cravings with a bit of local flair. Situated on N Yale Avenue, this cafe draws a mix of early risers grabbing a quick coffee and bagel, weekend brunch crowds who don’t mind a brief wait for a table, and folks who enjoy lingering on the patio with their morning brew.

It’s clear the bagels are the heart of the experience here — toasted to order with a fresh, chewy bite that recalls classic New York styles but with some inventive variations, like their jalapeño and cheese bagels that appear regularly on sandwiches and melts. The menu features a wide range of options, from traditional cream cheese spreads and lox to more unexpected choices including a vegetarian garden patty melt on a spicy jalapeño cheese bagel and seafood offerings like clam in spicy broth or squid in black ink, showing the kitchen’s comfort with flavors beyond the typical bagel shop fare.

The atmosphere inside tends to be cozy and relaxed, with dim lighting and thoughtfully chosen music creating a laid-back vibe in the afternoons, while mornings see a livelier buzz as patrons pick up coffee and breakfast to start their day. The outdoor patio adds a casual, airy option for those who want to enjoy Claremont’s sunny weather, and the staff strike a balance between efficient takeout service and warm, helpful hospitality, often guiding indecisive visitors through the menu.

42nd Street seems best suited for anyone who appreciates a solid, well-made bagel with quality toppings, whether you’re stopping by for a quick solo coffee and bagel or meeting friends for a relaxed breakfast. Weekday mornings and early afternoons offer a quieter atmosphere, while weekends can get busy as Claremont’s locals and visitors converge for brunch. Coffee here stands up well alongside the food, with options like espresso and cappuccino that pair nicely with sweeter or savory bagel combos.

For those who like to try a bagel that’s both classic and a little adventurous, the jalapeño cheese bagel — either alone or with fillings like tuna melt or whitefish — consistently comes up as a local favorite. Add a fruit spritzer or flan for a more complete experience that goes beyond standard bagel shop fare. In all, 42nd Street Bagel Cafe offers a neighborhood-friendly setting that feels easygoing but thoughtfully put together, appealing especially to people who see breakfast as a journey rather than just a meal.