This is my favorite location, thank goodness I didn’t read recent reviews first! The food is always fresh and delicious — I’m vegan and it’s so refreshing to have so many options! They have an App which takes out waiting time during lunch rush. Everyone has always been kind, even when they are super busy. Clean atmosphere, can’t believe I hadn’t found this place earlier!
Apr 11 · Katherine WellsBAKERY PROFILE
Empire Bagels
★ 3.057 recorded reviewsUS$1–10
20 N Salem Rd, Cross River, NY 10518, 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
- 20 N Salem Rd, Cross River, NY 10518, USA
- Phone
- (914) 763-6800
- Website
- Visit official site
- Rating signal
- 3.0 from 57 recorded reviews
HOURS
Listed operating hours
- Monday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
About and visit notes
Welcome to Empire Bagels, a beloved local spot nestled in the heart of Cross River, New York. For many in the community, this isn't just a place to grab a quick bite; it's a neighborhood staple that brings a taste of authentic New York bagel tradition right to your doorstep. Empire Bagels has earned a reputation for its commitment to quality, a diverse menu that goes far beyond just bagels, and a friendly, efficient staff that makes every visit a pleasant one. Whether you’re a lifelong local or just passing through, this bagel shop offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like home.
The story of Empire Bagels is one of dedication and a passion for the perfect bagel. Born from a meticulous process of rigorous experimentation, the signature Empire Bagel is a culinary masterpiece. The dough is long-fermented, kettle-boiled, and then deck-baked, resulting in a bagel that is soft and fluffy with a moist center, a perfectly crispy crust, and a hint of sweetness. This time-honored method is a hallmark of all their locations, but the Cross River shop, opened in 2013, stands out as a full-service haven. Unlike its predecessor in the Bronx, this location features a more expansive menu, a full juice and smoothie bar, and ample seating, making it the perfect spot to sit down and enjoy a meal.
The dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients is a cornerstone of the Empire Bagels experience. This commitment shines through in everything from their fresh-baked bagels to their house-made cream cheeses and Atlantic smoked salmon, which is delivered daily. They understand that a great bagel is just the beginning, which is why their menu is designed to satisfy every craving, from a classic lox spread to an elaborate gourmet sandwich. The emphasis on freshness and traditional techniques is what sets them apart and keeps locals coming back day after day.
Empire Bagels has cultivated a loyal following by consistently providing excellent food and service. Many customers praise the clean atmosphere and the kindness of the staff, even during the busiest hours. The a variety of menu options, including a wide array of vegan choices, has garnered appreciation from a diverse customer base. This focus on inclusivity and customer satisfaction is part of what makes Empire Bagels a true gem in the Cross River community.
In an era of fast food and rushed service, Empire Bagels stands as a testament to the value of tradition, quality, and community. It’s more than a bagel shop; it's a place where neighbors connect, families gather, and everyone can enjoy a truly authentic New York culinary experience. From the moment you walk through the door, you’re not just a customer—you're part of the Empire Bagels family.
Location and Accessibility
Empire Bagels is conveniently located at 20 N Salem Rd in Cross River, NY 10518. Situated in a central and easily accessible part of town, it is a convenient stop for both local residents and those traveling through the area. The shop is a stone's throw from the local routes, making it a simple destination to navigate to, whether you're coming from a morning commute or heading out for a weekend errand run.
The location offers on-site parking, making it easy for customers to stop in without the hassle of searching for a spot. Its accessibility from the surrounding residential areas also makes it a popular destination for a quick walk or a short drive. For those who live just a couple of minutes away, as some customer reviews suggest, it’s the perfect go-to spot for a daily coffee, a fresh bagel, or a satisfying lunch. The central location in Cross River ensures that Empire Bagels is never too far away for a quick, delicious meal.
In addition to its physical accessibility, Empire Bagels also embraces modern convenience. They have an app that allows customers to order ahead, taking the waiting time out of the equation during the lunch rush. This feature is particularly appreciated by busy professionals and parents who need to grab food on the go. The ability to order online for both pickup and delivery through various third-party services further enhances its accessibility, ensuring that the delicious offerings are available to a wider audience in the surrounding Westchester County region.
Services Offered
- Breakfast and Lunch Menu: Empire Bagels offers a comprehensive menu that caters to both morning and midday appetites. Beyond their classic bagels and spreads, they serve a variety of breakfast sandwiches, omelets, pancakes, French toast, and even açaí bowls. For lunch, patrons can choose from a selection of gourmet sandwiches, grilled burgers, fresh salads, and more.
- Vegan and Vegetarian Options: One of the standout features is the wide range of choices for those with dietary preferences, particularly vegans and vegetarians. They offer vegan cream cheese and an assortment of sandwiches and dishes specifically tailored to a plant-based diet, ensuring everyone can find something delicious to enjoy.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee and Beverages: The shop serves a full range of hot and cold beverages, including freshly brewed coffee and teas, iced lattes, and blended coffee drinks. They also have a full juice and smoothie bar, offering fresh juices and protein shakes for a healthy boost.
- Catering Services: Empire Bagels provides a full catering menu, perfect for family gatherings, office meetings, or special events. Their offerings include deli platters, lox platters, fresh fruit, and dessert trays. They can also provide delivery for special events, such as Shiva, in Cross River and the surrounding areas.
- Online Ordering and Delivery: For maximum convenience, customers can place orders online for both pickup and delivery. This service is available through their dedicated app and various popular delivery platforms, allowing you to enjoy their food without leaving your home or office.
Features / Highlights
- Authentic New York Bagels: Empire Bagels is known for its classic, kettle-boiled, and deck-baked New York-style bagels. This traditional preparation method results in a bagel with a superior texture and taste, a true standout in the region.
- Expansive Menu: The shop’s menu goes far beyond a typical bagel shop, offering a vast selection of gourmet sandwiches, burgers, salads, and breakfast items. The variety ensures that there is always something new and exciting to try.
- Vegan-Friendly Options: The inclusion of multiple vegan options, including vegan cream cheese and sandwiches, is a significant highlight, making the establishment welcoming and accessible to a broader customer base.
- Fresh Ingredients: The commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, from house-made cream cheeses to Atlantic smoked salmon delivered daily, is evident in every bite. This focus on freshness is a key factor in their delicious offerings.
- Welcoming and Clean Environment: Customers consistently praise the clean and inviting atmosphere of the shop, along with the friendly and professional service provided by the staff, making it a great place to sit and enjoy a meal.
- Convenient Technology: The Empire Bagels app for pre-ordering is a modern convenience that significantly reduces wait times, especially during peak hours, enhancing the overall customer experience.
Contact Information
Address: 20 N Salem Rd, Cross River, NY 10518, USA
Phone: (914) 763-6800
Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals
Empire Bagels is more than just a place to buy a bagel; it is a fundamental part of the Cross River community. It provides a warm, welcoming space where locals can gather to enjoy high-quality food in a friendly atmosphere. The shop's commitment to traditional bagel-making techniques ensures that residents don't have to travel far to get an authentic taste of New York. The extensive menu, which caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs, means there's something for everyone in the family, from a classic bacon, egg, and cheese on a roll to a healthy açaí bowl.
The blend of traditional charm and modern convenience is another reason Empire Bagels resonates with the local populace. The ability to use an app to skip the line during the morning rush or to have catering delivered for a local event makes life easier for busy New Yorkers. The consistent positive feedback from customers about the kind staff and clean environment reinforces its status as a reliable and cherished neighborhood spot.
Ultimately, Empire Bagels is a perfect fit for the local community because it delivers on quality, convenience, and a sense of belonging. It's a place where you're greeted with a smile, served delicious food made with care, and can start your day off right. It's not just a business; it’s a neighbor that makes Cross River a better place to live, one fresh bagel at a time.
VISIT FEATURES
Services and accessibility
These attributes come from the directory record and should be confirmed when essential.
Service options
- Delivery
- In-store pick-up
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Offerings
- Coffee
Dining options
- Breakfast
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
PHOTOS
See the bakery
VISITOR FEEDBACK
Reviews and recurring themes
Read individual comments as personal experiences, not verified guarantees.
egg sandwiches 3cream cheese 3wrap 2fries 2company 2reviews 2phone 2menu 2morning 2bacon 2
Visit this place alot since I live 2 minutes away. Usually it's OK, decent bagels, we now go to jv in somers. Got an egg sandwich from empire today 8$ and it was ice cold. Was very disappointed. And I always leave a tip. Not cool. Laters.
May 22 · PaulI went to this place over the weekend trying to get food. I called this place 5 times no one answered so I walked fro my school to the empire place and the doors were locked a hour before they actually closed . They weren't allowing me to order and food amd they kept von say that i f they didn't have service they could close but if they just answered the phone they would know that they had an order
Mar 3 · Jack ColettaI don’t normally write reviews but can’t help but support these guys seeing all these negative, outdated reviews. these bagels are awesome, some of the best we’ve found in the area. it’s a no frills establishment but the product is good and the guys behind the counter are kind and friendly. I don’t know how folks are talking about bad service. they are always so good to me and my children. cream cheese is fresh and pumpernickel everything bagels are ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oct 24 · Meaghan E. TylerOver 5 dollars for a bagel with veggie cream cheese. Price gouging and will no longer buy anything from them, complete and utter ripoff. Staff is also a joke. You ask them over the phone (say scrambled eggs for your BEC) the person who answers it just ignores half of what you say and messes the order up. I do not think I have ever gotten an addition to an order correct.
Aug 15 · LotlethNEARBY ALTERNATIVES
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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.