Delicious bagels! Whenever I want to treat myself I come here for a lox cream cheese bagel with extra lox cc. Ugh its so good. If I could I'd eat this for every meal every day. Everyone who works there is very kind and the atmosphere inside is so fun. I love their decor and the new fall artwork on the windows I saw today. I always recommend this place.
Sep 17 · H TBAKERY PROFILE
Chicago Bagel Authority - Armitage
★ 4.0748 recorded reviews$10–20
953 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
Directory information can change. Confirm current hours, prices, products, dietary needs, and custom-order requirements directly with the bakery.
PLAN THE VISIT
Essential details
- Address
- 953 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
- Phone
- (773) 248-9606
- Website
- Visit official site
- Rating signal
- 4.0 from 748 recorded reviews
HOURS
Listed operating hours
- Monday7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
About and visit notes
For residents of Illinois seeking a truly unique and expansive menu in the breakfast and lunch space, Chicago Bagel Authority (CBA) - Armitage is a legendary Chicago destination. Situated in the dynamic Lincoln Park neighborhood, CBA is far more than a typical Bagel shop. It operates as a full-service Breakfast restaurant, a comprehensive Sandwich shop, and a reliable Box lunch supplier, all rolled into one vibrant establishment. Since its inception, CBA has carved out a unique niche by specializing in the "Steamwich"—a warm, generously filled sandwich built on a bagel that is famously prepared using a steaming process.
The sheer scale of the menu at CBA is a key highlight, offering dozens upon dozens of creatively named and meticulously crafted bagel sandwiches. Whether you're craving a hearty morning meal with options like the Sausage Fest or the Hangover Helper, or a midday deli creation like the Bacon Boat To Turkey Town or Captain Beefheart, the variety ensures there is something for every taste and craving. The shop successfully caters to a broad local audience, serving as a hub for a quick, efficient visit while also providing a comfortable space for Dine-in patrons looking to enjoy the famously fun and friendly atmosphere, complete with engaging decor.
Patrons consistently praise the welcoming nature of the staff and the inviting ambiance. One loyal customer notes, "Everyone who works there is very kind and the atmosphere inside is so fun," further adding to the reputation that this location is an essential stop for high-quality food in a great environment. The combination of its innovative food preparation method, its massive menu, and its commitment to a friendly customer experience makes Chicago Bagel Authority a standout institution in the Illinois fast-casual dining scene. Furthermore, the establishment proudly operates as an LGBTQ+ friendly space, reinforcing its commitment to the entire local community.
The Chicago Bagel Authority - Armitage location serves the community from its address at 953 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, USA. This prime spot is deep within the heart of the Lincoln Park neighborhood, making it highly accessible to DePaul University students, local residents, and commuters utilizing nearby public transit and major roads. The area is known for its blend of historic residential streets and bustling commercial activity.
For those planning a visit, the shop offers multiple dining options, including comfortable Dine-in seating for customers looking to relax and utilize the complimentary Wi-Fi—a great amenity for students or remote workers. However, for those on a tight schedule, the business model is perfectly suited for a Quick visit, offering fast and efficient Takeout service. The Armitage location also provides both In-store pickup and third-party Delivery options, ensuring that patrons across the 60614 zip code and beyond can easily access their favorite bagel sandwiches.
In terms of physical access, the facility features a Wheelchair accessible entrance, demonstrating a commitment to serving all members of the community. It is essential for drivers to know that parking in this busy urban neighborhood is available via Paid street parking. This location's accessibility via various means—transit, walking, or quick car stop with meters—makes it a consistent and reliable option for all daily meals, from a quick Breakfast to a substantial lunch.
CBA’s extensive offerings go well beyond simple bagels and cream cheese, establishing it as a multifaceted food service provider.
Services Offered:
- Specialized "Steamwich" Preparation: The signature service of heating and finishing sandwiches via a steaming process, resulting in a unique texture that differentiates it from traditionally toasted or grilled bagel sandwiches.
- Comprehensive Menu Categories: Featuring nearly 100 different pre-designed sandwich options across major protein categories, including Breakfast Steamwiches (like the Dank N Eggs), Turkey Steamwiches (such as the Xanadu), Roast Beef Steamwiches (like Large Marge), Veggie Steamwiches (including the Green Goddess), and many more, all available on a bagel.
- Bulk & Catering Sales: Functions as a capable Box lunch supplier and offers large-format options like Half Dozen and Dozen bagels, as well as the Coffee Box For 10 for corporate meetings or group events.
- Full Beverage and Coffee Service: Provides a wide selection of drinks, including Coffee, juices (Minute Maid Juice, Naked Juice), various sodas, and unique bottled options like Mexican Coke Bottle.
- Sweet and Savory Treats: Offers a range of tempting sides and desserts, from baked goods like the Huge Chocolate Chip Cookie and S'more Thingies to unique bagel-based snacks like the Hot Melted Cheese Bagel/Bread and the highly unusual Atheist's Nightmare.
- Diverse Fulfillment Options: Patrons can choose between convenient Delivery, fast Takeout, In-store pickup, or enjoying the casual ambiance with a sit-down Dine-in experience.
Chicago Bagel Authority's appeal is rooted in its innovative cooking method, diverse menu, and dedication to customer comfort and inclusivity.
Features / Highlights:
- The Signature "Steamwich": The defining feature of CBA, offering a distinctive, warm, and moist sandwich experience that has become a Chicago cult classic, drawing both enthusiastic fans and curious first-timers.
- A Menu of Unrivaled Scale: Boasts one of the largest bagel sandwich menus in the region, featuring creatively named, fully customizable options across virtually every popular deli meat and vegetable combination, ensuring exceptional variety.
- Welcoming and Inclusive Environment: Recognized as an LGBTQ+ friendly establishment, fostering a safe and fun atmosphere with engaging decor and kind, attentive staff.
- Full Accessibility and Amenities: Provides a Wheelchair accessible entrance and complimentary Wi-Fi for both quick stops and extended visits, enhancing customer comfort and convenience.
- High-Volume Efficiency: Operates successfully as a Takeout Restaurant and Quick visit spot, maintaining fast service even with its extensive, customizable menu.
- Commitment to Variety and Fun: Beyond savory sandwiches, the inclusion of a comprehensive kids menu (PB&J Bagel (Kids), Grilled Cheese (Kids)) and novelty items like the Nuclear Ned Pickle adds a playful element to the dining experience.
To place an order, inquire about catering, or learn more about the latest Steamwich specials, please reach out to the Chicago Bagel Authority - Armitage location directly.
Contact Information:
Address: 953 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
Phone: (773) 248-9606
For residents in the Illinois region, choosing Chicago Bagel Authority is choosing an iconic, locally specific culinary adventure. What is most worth choosing is experiencing the signature Steamwich process itself. While some may find the resulting moistness different from a traditional toasted bagel, as one reviewer noted, the unique preparation offers a warm, soft vessel that perfectly melds with the fillings, often leading to a rich, cohesive, and "so good" breakfast or lunch experience. The commitment to customization means any first-time visitor can always "come back and try it unsteamed" if they prefer a different texture, but the steamed sandwich is the essential Chicago Bagel Authority experience.
Beyond the core product, the sheer variety is a key selling point. With a menu featuring items from the premium Swanson Sandwich Of Greatness to the vast selection of Veggie Steamwiches, CBA solves the dilemma of where to eat when a group can't agree. The shop is also highly recommended for its atmosphere; the kindness of the staff, the fun decor, and the feeling of stepping into a truly established local favorite make the visit a treat. For those in Lincoln Park or passing through the 60614 area, CBA-Armitage represents a perfect blend of high-quality, creative food, efficient service, and a genuinely friendly, inclusive local vibe. Whether you need a single Lox Spread Bagel with extra lox cc (a clear favorite among locals) or a dozen box lunches for the office, Chicago Bagel Authority is equipped and eager to serve.
VISIT FEATURES
Services and accessibility
These attributes come from the directory record and should be confirmed when essential.
Service options
- Delivery
- In-store pickup
- In-store shopping
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Offerings
- Coffee
Dining options
- Breakfast
Amenities
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Paid street parking
PHOTOS
See the bakery
VISITOR FEEDBACK
Reviews and recurring themes
Read individual comments as personal experiences, not verified guarantees.
bagel sandwiches 68steamed 50combinations 10breakfast bagel 10hangover 9music 6patio 6meal 6vegetarian 5bialy 5
First time ever having a steamed bagel and I’m honestly not a fan. The bagel was warm but way too moist almost soggy. The sausage and egg were fine but not seasoned. Subbed the cheese for avocado which gave some creaminess and also added some jalapeños for a kick. Overall, a decent breakfast sandwich. Tons of options so always a reason to come back and try it unsteamed.
Feb 24 · Samir KattaA quirky bagel place that’s always busy! They have sooooo many options to choose from, and fair prices. Takes a bit to get good cause there so busy but it’s fun to jam to the music and sit outside and wait. However, I would get coffee elsewhere.
Aug 11 · Lou LouGood place to have your breakfast/lunchTaste really good, and delicious ingredients.But I wish I had more Salmon in my breakfast sandwich.And I wish they also had expresso machine.I had to go to different store to get my Latte.Definitely recommend this place.
Mar 14 · ARI K PRODUCTION (Arian Khoroushi)Best bagel around, hands down. Fast, friendly, helpful service as well. Walked in and the place immediately smelled of bacon and fresh baked bread. If you’re visiting Chicago you gotta go here!
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This page combines directory records, available business details, submitted photos, and visitor feedback. Information may be incomplete or change without notice. For corrections, contact server@heavenlydelightsbakery.com.