Joseph Foster
Four stars for customer service and atmosphere. Two stars for the bagels.
I came in with an open mind, fully aware that as someone from New Jersey, I’m not going to find a true NJ/NY–style bagel in Raleigh. That’s fine—I’m not expecting perfection or nostalgia. What I do expect is a solid bagel, and unfortunately, that’s where this place misses the mark.
The location inside the Food Hall is great and adds to the overall experience. The atmosphere is lively, clean, and enjoyable, and the employees were consistently friendly, helpful, and doing everything right on the service side. No complaints there at all.
The bagels themselves, however, were barely average at best. Texture was off, flavor was lacking, and overall they didn’t stand out in any meaningful way. This wasn’t a “different style” of bagel—it was just not a good one.
What makes this more disappointing is that there are several places throughout the Triangle that do get North Carolina’s version of bagels right. This location isn’t one of them. Great staff and a great setting can’t make up for a product that falls short.
… moreTal Bevacqua
Best bagels in Raleigh and they are made the right way. Slowly proofed over the course of several days and then fired in an authentic wood fired oven. You can get a classic bagel with cream cheese or a gourmet creation MTO. The attention to detail is something you can taste in every bite. The completely open kitchen and bakery is beautifully designed and immaculately clean. The staff couldn’t be more helpful or friendly. I would recommend this place to anyone in the area as a must stop.
… moreAlison Thomas
My first time trying Benchwarmer Bagels and honestly so impressed. I’m from Brooklyn originally, and the bagels are incredibly fresh. Best NY style bagel I’ve had down here so far, delicious scrambled egg, easily customizable, friendly staff, and they had a discount for their birthday today! Also coffee is very good, I got a brown sugar cinnamon latte with oat milk. not too sweet, perfect flavor and color. Based on other reviews, maybe it depends on the day you go or what type of bagel you order! I got a sesame bagel, and it had a great texture and was not overcooked at all.
… moreLipstick Revolt
Raleigh’s best kept secret. Who knew the best bagels I’ve ever had would be in Raleigh? The perfect amount of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They season both sides of the bagel so you don’t have to be disappointed in eating the bottom. Great cream cheeses. Great coffee. Great service. Highly recommend!
… moreMaria Koulopoulos
Best bagels in the Triangle area. We got bagel sandwiches and coffee this weekend (which were anmazing) and after eating them went back for a dozen bagels and cream cheese for home. Thank god we got to try their cream cheese…it’s unbelievable! I love the Hotel d’matred and the pecan butterscotch.
… moreRaymond Culbert
Excellent bagel gem inside Transfer Co. Food Hall. Found out it doubles as a pizza shop after 5pm, pure genius. Missed the pies this time but a sure return trip just based on the level bagel goodness from here.
… moreAlexandria Ethridge
The people working were nice and helpful and the atmosphere was cool but the bagels were severely lacking. From the bagel itself to the ingredients inside. The egg was over cooked, the sausage just wasn’t great. They gave me a lot of avocado which was a nice change of pace from most places but for the price and bland flavors it’s a no. Disappointed to say the least. You’re paying $12-14 minimum just for the bagel sandwich.
… moreQueens Vlogz
Cute new location, but service is less than ideal. I didn’t even get a hello, welcome in just a girl staring at an iPad waiting on my order. and how can you only offer whole milk and oat milk? Some other non-inflammatory options for inclusivity and people with allergies would be nice. Unlikely to return.
… moreStephanie Mosteller
We waited a long time to get a bagel with cream cheese and then was given the wrong cream cheese. Two people behind the counter too busy talking to be bothered to take care of customers. We were the only people there when we ordered but there’s were about four by the time we left. I had to ask cashier to check on my food inorder to get it after waiting way too long for a bagel. Won’t be going back even though the food tasted pretty good. Also really expensive.
… moreCJ Reviews
There is nothing unlikeable about Benchwarmers. If I describe my perfect day, my mind can’t help but think that it starts at Benchwarmers. First, the staff is incredible. They are friendly and give exceptional customer service. And consistent! I have never been disappointed by the service or how my food is prepared. Their iced lattes are the best I have ever had. Since I moved away from Raleigh, I have been trying to find a coffee that compares. It’s like chasing a dream.
Their bagels are great on their own, but this place makes a near perfect bagel sandwich. Options range from classic to niche, and their seasonal options never disappoint.
Last, but not least… you must try to get there early on a weekend to get a cardamom bun. I think about them every weekend.
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