Lefty’s bagels land squarely between NY and Montreal styles in both appearance and texture. The bagels are prepared in the traditional process for a Montreal bagel with an extra overnight proof, which results in thicker/bigger bagels with a less dense interior more akin to the NY style. We got a Billy Corgan (nova lox) sandwich on a toasted everything and their May special, toasted Zeverything (everything + zaatar) bagel & hot honey cream cheese. The bagels itself were delicious: nicely toasted with a crisp exterior packed with toppings and a dense yet fluffy interior that wasn't at all gummy. What also set Lefty’s apart for me was the generous portion of thick nova lox slices in the sandwich with no tomatoes to fill space, unlike most places that give you two thin layers of lox and pad the rest with slices of tomato. While I do prefer NY style bagels, this is genuinely a great option to have around.
May 9 · Christina HuynhLefty's Righteous Bagels
827 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202, USA
Directory information can change. Confirm current hours, prices, products, dietary needs, and custom-order requirements directly with the bakery.
Essential details
- Address
- 827 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202, USA
- Phone
- (224) 714-2245
- Website
- Visit official site
- Rating signal
- 4.0 from 122 recorded reviews
Listed operating hours
- MondayClosed
- Tuesday7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Wednesday7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Thursday7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Friday7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Sunday7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
About and visit notes
For residents across the Illinois North Shore and Chicago, Lefty's Righteous Bagels is a highly specialized local establishment that successfully merges the functions of a Bakery, a focused Bagel Shop, and a full-service Coffee Shop. Located in Evanston, this local gem has carved out a distinct identity by mastering a unique take on the classic bagel. This is not just another bagel shop; Lefty's has dedicated its craft to producing a bagel that lands "squarely between NY and Montreal styles," offering a flavor and texture profile that is entirely unique to the Illinois area. The bagels are created using the traditional, slow process common to Montreal methods, including an extra overnight proof, resulting in a product that is "thick/bigger" with a "dense yet fluffy interior" akin to the sought-after New York style.
The experience at Lefty's extends beyond the baked goods themselves. The menu is infused with local personality and creative flair, featuring signature Bagel Sandwiches with memorable, pop-culture-inspired names such as The Billy Corgan, The Eggy Vedder, and The Larry Bird. These sandwiches are carefully "crafted to pair well together," demonstrating an elevated approach to the standard deli sandwich. Furthermore, the bakery supports local commerce by partnering with Magnifico Coffee Roasters, a family-owned, Chicago-based company, to supply beans for their extensive line of Barista Drinks. This commitment to specialization, local partnership, and creative menu design makes Lefty's Righteous Bagels a destination worth seeking out for any local user prioritizing quality and a unique local experience.
Whether you are stopping for a Solo Bagel, a meticulously prepared Latte, or a full dozen for the family (LRB Whole), the focus here is on quality ingredients and a convenient, welcoming service. The business model accommodates both quick visits for takeout and a comfortable, cozy spot for Dine-in patrons looking to enjoy a strong, aromatic cup of coffee while catching up on work.
---Lefty's Righteous Bagels is centrally situated in Evanston, IL, at 827 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202, USA. This prime location on Chicago Avenue ensures easy access for residents throughout Evanston and the surrounding North Shore suburbs of Illinois. The location is ideal for those seeking a quick morning or midday stop.
The shop is set up to welcome a diverse clientele with necessary accessibility features, including a Wheelchair accessible entrance. For patrons planning a visit, the business offers multiple service options, including Takeout, In-store pickup, and comfortable Dine-in space. Parking is available via Paid street parking near the location. The entire operation is geared for a Quick visit, making it highly efficient for busy schedules. Additionally, the availability of a clean Restroom amenity ensures a comfortable experience for dine-in guests or those taking a short break. The bakery accepts modern forms of payment, including Credit cards and Debit cards, for smooth transactions.
---Lefty's Righteous Bagels provides an extensive range of specialized food and beverage services, catering to individual cravings, mealtime, and large group events.
- Specialty Bagels & Schmears: Customers can purchase the unique hybrid-style bagels Solo or as a Bagel + Schmear combination, featuring 2oz containers of schmear served on the side, allowing for personalized application. Schmears are also sold in 2oz and 8oz sizes.
- Signature Bagel Sandwiches: A featured component of the menu, these fully composed sandwiches (like The Billy Corgan with thick lox and capers, or The Ned Flanders) are designed with complementary ingredients, available for Breakfast and beyond.
- Full-Service Coffee Bar: Offering a wide range of hot and cold beverages using beans from local Magnifico Coffee Roasters. This includes Drip Coffee, Espresso, Latte, Flat White, Matcha, and various teas, along with unique items like the Red Eye and London Fog.
- Bulk Sales and Prepared Foods: Customers can order the LRB Half (7 bagels) or LRB Whole (13 bagels) and pair them with 8oz schmears. They also offer scratch-made Deli Salads, Yogurt Parfaits, and packaged Lox.
- Catering for Groups: The shop provides extensive catering options perfect for Illinois meetings or parties, including specialized Savory, Sweet, or Lox Bagel Boards, Bagels & Schmear Boxes, and bulk beverage options like the Coffee Box (96oz.).
- Bialys and Unique Items: The menu includes the bialy, described as a "less high-maintenance cousin" of the bagel with a savory, filled center, offered in varieties like Onion Poppyseed and a Chef's Special.
The unique appeal of Lefty's Righteous Bagels lies in its distinct product, its deep connection to the local food scene, and its commitment to customer enjoyment.
- Unique Hybrid Bagel Style: The bagel preparation is a unique hybrid, combining the traditional Montreal process (overnight proof) with a New York-style texture (thicker, less gummy, dense yet fluffy interior), offering an original taste experience to Illinois patrons.
- High-Quality Sandwich Fillings: The signature bagel sandwiches are noted for the quality and generous portions of ingredients, specifically the thick nova lox slices in The Billy Corgan, served without filler vegetables, demonstrating a commitment to ingredient quality.
- Support for Local Chicago Business: The partnership with Magnifico Coffee Roasters, a family-owned Chicago-based roastery, highlights the shop's dedication to supporting other local Illinois businesses.
- Creative and Welcoming Ambiance: The shop is described as a "cozy space" that provides surprising amenities like coloring pages with crayons for waiting customers, creating a unique and relaxed atmosphere perfect for getting some computer work done over a strong cup of coffee.
- Distinct Sandwich Naming Convention: The menu features uniquely named sandwiches (The Larry Bird, The RBG) that add personality and a fun, memorable element to the ordering experience.
For customers in Illinois wishing to place a catering order, inquire about the daily bialy special, or confirm opening hours, the following contact information should be used.
Address: 827 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202, USA
Phone: (224) 714-2245
Mobile Phone: +1 224-714-2245
---For Illinois residents, particularly those in the Evanston and North Shore areas, Lefty's Righteous Bagels is worth choosing primarily because it offers a distinctive and high-quality breakfast and catering experience that cannot be replicated at standard chain bakeries or coffee shops. The most compelling reason is the unique hybrid Montreal/New York bagel itself. While some patrons accustomed to a very specific New York style may note differences in texture (as acknowledged in reviews), the bagel's quality—its crisp exterior, packed toppings, and dense, fluffy interior—is consistently praised. This is a chance to experience a specialized, intentional bagel style that is a signature of this local Illinois business.
The second major factor is the exceptional value delivered in their signature sandwiches. The fact that The Billy Corgan is packed with a "generous portion of thick nova lox slices in the sandwich with no tomatoes to fill space" speaks volumes about the shop's commitment to high-quality ingredients over cost-cutting fillers. This focus on premium ingredients ensures that customers receive substantial, satisfying, and delicious meals, which justifies the price point and builds a trusting relationship with the local community. The creative menu names also make the experience fun and engaging.
Furthermore, the shop excels as a highly versatile local spot. It perfectly integrates its role as a bakery, a place for Breakfast, and a full-scale Coffee Shop. The use of locally sourced Magnifico Coffee Roasters’ beans for their strong, aromatic coffee enhances its appeal as a local hub. The cozy ambiance and thoughtful touches, like the provided coloring pages, create a welcoming environment for a Dine-in visit, distinguishing it from quick-service coffee counters. From a convenient Solo Bagel run to planning a large event with their specialized Bagel Boards and Bialy Four Packs, Lefty's Righteous Bagels is a uniquely focused, high-quality, and community-aware vendor that deserves the business of Illinois patrons.
Services and accessibility
These attributes come from the directory record and should be confirmed when essential.
Service options
- In-store pickup
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Offerings
- Coffee
Dining options
- Breakfast
Amenities
- Restroom
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Parking
- Paid street parking
See the bakery
Reviews and recurring themes
Read individual comments as personal experiences, not verified guarantees.
I prefer NY Style Bagels. I wasn’t aware of Montreal style, until after I started chowing’ down on my order.Found this place on a walk with my friend, I love carbs, bread and bagels, so naturally I returned - I love bagels!First impression : I was sad. The cream cheese was not smeared on the bagel, so I could not bite and go. Sesame bagel had lots of sesame seeds, but it was not the NY style bread I’m used to; it was giving Dunkin’ or Starbucks bagels.My lox, The Billy Corgan, I had amazing salmon, soft and buttery, but I was missing the fresh crunch of veggies. Lefty’s version has lemon dill cream cheese, but I opted for good ol’ plain cream cheese and I’m glad I did, the Montreal style bagel was not bageling.My necessary sodium intake was met for the day with the Billy Corgan- coming in with only pickled red onions, capers and a pickle on the side.The bagel was tough; however, only because it was loaded with the smoked salmon, I devoured it.Sesame bagel with cream cheese was 5.50 and small coffee was 3.50.Coffee was strong, and aromatic. I actually wouldn’t mind a cup on another Tuesday Morning around 8AM, to get some computer work in a cozy space .Coloring pages with crayons are provided while I waited for my order .My regular bagel & bialy place was deeply missed as I paid, and then again as took that first flat sesame bite.No picture of the actual Lox because I ate it, and completely forgot the photo shoot.
Aug 3 · AngelicaCame here on a Sunday to grab some quick breakfast and wasn’t disappointed with Lefty’s! Reasonably priced and very filling. I got the Eggy Vedder and it came out within 5 minutes of ordering. The staff were very friendly and helpful when I was ordering. Highly recommend!
Aug 4 · Mark HoangThis place is a true neighborhood gem! Their woodfired bagels are always delicious and their staff is friendly, patient, and welcoming.The owner, and the lead baker, are chatty in the best way, and it really feels like everything is made with care.I usually order the same thing every time: a spicy giardinera bagel, toasted with jalapeño cream cheese & an iced coffee, plus (1) unsliced sesame and (1) Kerrygold cheddar bagels to go — for next day sandwiches.Today I opted for The Eggy Vedder (breakfast sandwich) sub mayo for jalapeño cream cheese — and by George (!!) this might be my new order!!! The sandwich was messy but thankfully there were extra napkins conveniently located at my two-top table. I also tried their iced tea special, which was pineapple passion fruit black tea that was really tasty too.Also, mark your calendar for next March because their corned beef bagel sandwich offered around St. Patrick’s day is something I still think about.Put their address into Google map, and go already!
Aug 8 · Amber BrownThe bagels had really good texture and they had something extra in their everything. Was it cumin? I was not sure but it tasted really flavorful. The lemon&dill cream cheese was a bit too salty, and I do hope to get more cream cheese given its price😢. Would come back and try their sweet cream cheese next time. Overall I’m happy to found this place as a bagel addict
Nov 22 · YANLIN LICompare another bakery nearby
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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.