Courage Bagels

For many food enthusiasts across California, the conversation about the West Coast’s best bagels inevitably leads to one name: Courage Bagels. This snug counter-serve spot in the heart of Los Angeles has garnered massive attention and a passionate following, transforming the simple act of buying a bagel into a sought-after culinary experience. Courage Bagels has successfully carved out a unique space in the crowded LA food scene by not just making bagels, but by innovating a distinctive style often described as "Montreal/California-inspired."

The foundation of their acclaim lies in their bagel itself, which consciously deviates from the dense, bready structure of the traditional New York style. Courage Bagels specializes in a wild-fermented dough that results in a product that is lighter, thinner, and famously crisp on the outside, a distinct characteristic that aligns with the sweeter, denser, and wood-fired baked qualities of the Montreal bagel. As one customer aptly put it, the resulting texture is "deliciously crunchy but soft and a bit doughy inside," and "the bagel itself is unique."

However, the true "California twist" is found in the toppings. Courage Bagels elevates the classic bagel sandwich into an open-faced work of art, focusing on high-quality, market-fresh ingredients that are vibrant in both color and flavor. Instead of simply relying on cream cheese, they craft meticulously composed toppings that feature ingredients like hand-sliced smoked salmon, fresh dill, capers, pickled onion, and—a particularly Californian touch—the juiciest heirloom tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil.

It is this unique synthesis of a Montreal-style crust with gourmet, locally-inspired California toppings that has made the shop a viral sensation. Despite the long lines that frequently form—a testament to the product's high demand—customers are clear: "The hype is worth the long lines." The establishment operates as a simple walk-up window with charming outdoor seating, providing a casual, community-focused vibe that perfectly suits the relaxed yet vibrant Los Angeles atmosphere. Their attention to detail, from the slightly burnt, caramelized seasoning on the 'Everything' bagel to the use of unique local products like Sqirl marmalade, proves that they are not just selling a meal, but a thoughtfully crafted experience.

Courage Bagels is strategically located in the Virgil Village neighborhood of Los Angeles, making it a culinary anchor for the local East Hollywood area. The shop operates primarily as a counter-serve bakery with sidewalk seating, adding to its authentic, neighborhood feel.

The location is:

777 Virgil Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029, USA

The shop is known for its operating hours, typically running from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM on most days it is open (Thursday through Monday).

Accessibility for patrons is a consideration, particularly in this bustling part of LA:

• Street Parking: Both free and paid street parking options are available nearby. Visitors should note that parking rules, such as meter times on weekdays, apply and should be checked upon arrival.
• Outdoor Seating: A cute, casual outside dining area with chairs and tables is available for those who wish to enjoy their food immediately. Misters are often employed to help patrons cool off during warmer California weather.

Courage Bagels offers a focused menu designed to highlight the exceptional quality of their bagels and fresh, gourmet toppings. The menu caters heavily to breakfast and early lunch crowds.

• Bagel Types: The foundation of the menu, available in whole ($4.00) or mini ($2.00) sizes, includes core flavors: Sea Salt Sesame, Poppy, Everything, Burnt Everything, Onion, and Plain.
• Signature Open-Faced Sandwiches: Known for their elaborate, composed offerings. These are sold as both full and half sandwiches to encourage sampling. Highly popular choices include:
  • Hand Sliced Smoked Salmon: A classic perfected with cream cheese, fresh dill, capers, onions, and often heirloom tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil.
  • Run It Thru The Garden: A uniquely Californian, almost salad-like creation featuring copious cucumbers, tomatoes, capers, onions, dill, lemon slices, and pepper.
  • Wild Alaskan Salmon Roe: A luxurious option often served on an Everything bagel with cream cheese and dill.
• Sweet/Vegan Options: Includes the popular California Crunch (almond butter with specialty jam, such as Sqirl Strawberry Rose Geranium Jam) and options for cashew cream cheese and veggie toppings.
• Beverages: Offers coffee and other hot drinks.
• Service Model: Predominantly a Takeout/Walk-up window service, with limited Onsite services via outdoor seating.

Courage Bagels' success stems from a few key elements that distinguish it in the competitive Los Angeles food scene:

• Distinct Bagel Style: Specializes in a Montreal/California-style bagel—a wild-fermented, light, crunchy, and often sourdough bagel that offers a different textural experience than the typical New York bagel.
• The "Burnt Everything" Phenomenon: An original and highly sought-after flavor where the everything seasoning is slightly charred, giving it a uniquely sticky, sweet, and caramelized taste.
• Gourmet, Market-Fresh Toppings: The commitment to quality is evident in the use of incredibly fresh ingredients like heirloom tomatoes and fresh dill, elevating the humble bagel into a gourmet, composed dish.
• Flexible Ordering: The option to purchase "half" bagel sandwiches is highly praised by customers, as it allows them to sample the wide array of creative combinations without overcommitting.
• Bilingual Menu: The respectful inclusion of their menu in Spanish demonstrates a dedication to serving the diverse local community.

For Angeleno locals planning their visit to the Virgil Village location, here is the contact information:

Address: 777 Virgil Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029, USA

Phone: (323) 828-9963

Mobile Phone (also available): +1 323-828-9963

Please note that due to the high volume and focus on crafting the bagels, the staff's hands are often "full of cream cheese and dough," making email a suggested route for non-urgent inquiries. The counter-serve window typically takes orders Thursday through Monday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

For a California resident seeking a truly special breakfast or brunch, Courage Bagels is a must-try destination, even accounting for the sometimes significant wait. What makes it worth the line is the unparalleled quality of the product and the creative execution of the full 'bagel sandwich' concept.

The primary choice worth making is any of their signature composed sandwiches, particularly on the unique Burnt Everything bagel. This combination provides the full Courage Bagels experience: the crunch of the specialized dough, the hint of caramel from the burnt seasoning, and the silky, fresh ingredients piled high.

Newcomers should seriously consider ordering a "half" of the Hand Sliced Smoked Salmon and a "half" of the Run It Thru The Garden. The salmon half offers a rich, perfectly balanced classic with a gourmet touch, while the Garden half delivers the light, refreshing, and vegetable-forward experience that embodies the 'California-style' innovation. Alternatively, the California Crunch with its unique local jam is a deliciously sweet and crunchy option.

Ultimately, choosing Courage Bagels is choosing a commitment to quality, a dedication to a unique style of baking, and a willingness to pay a premium for a truly memorable, high-end breakfast experience in Los Angeles. The texture of the fresh, warm, light bagel, combined with the deliberate balance of flavors in the toppings, ensures that the initial craving is immediately satisfied and a new one is quickly born.

Courage Bagels

777 Virgil Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029, USA