Mustard's Bagels

For Southern California locals in search of a truly distinctive and high-quality bagel experience, Mustard's Bagels in Culver City has become a compelling destination. This isn't your standard bagel joint; it's a specialty shop that has brought a unique, artisan approach to the beloved breakfast staple. By focusing on a lengthy, traditional process, Mustard's Bagels is redefining what a bagel can be on the West Coast, carving out a niche in a crowded Los Angeles culinary scene. Their bagels are not aiming for the traditional dense New York style, but rather offer a unique, rustic profile that is crispy, chewy, and crackly, similar in style to other highly-regarded artisan bakeries in the region.

What immediately sets Mustard’s Bagels apart is their commitment to craft. Every bagel starts with Tehachapi Grain Project heirloom whole wheat flour, is hand-formed, and undergoes an impressive 72-hour fermentation process. This slow fermentation is key to developing the profound flavor and signature sourdough tang that customers rave about. After the extended rest, the bagels are boiled in malt syrup, contributing to their blistering, crackly exterior before being baked to perfection. The result is a bagel with incredible depth of flavor and a distinct, appealing texture that many have called "uniquely crunchy" and "chewy."

The spirit of Mustard's Bagels is one of creative combination, pairing their exceptional bagel base with house-whipped schmears and inventive toppings inspired by diverse global flavors. The menu is intentionally focused, highlighting unique open-faced bagel sandwiches that are often cited as the real draw. From savory lox creations featuring house-smoked salmon to unexpectedly delicious vegan options, this shop provides a memorable, gourmet breakfast or brunch experience that goes far beyond the simple bagel and cream cheese. The highly attentive and friendly staff contribute to the overall positive atmosphere, ensuring a welcoming environment for first-time visitors and dedicated regulars alike. They even offer complimentary treats for furry companions, a detail that endears them to the local pet-loving community.

As a key part of the Culver City food landscape, Mustard's Bagels offers an exciting alternative to more conventional offerings, making it a must-try for anyone in the greater Los Angeles area. It’s a place that honors traditional baking techniques while embracing a modern, flavor-forward approach, solidifying its status as one of LA's best new-wave bagel spots.

Location and Accessibility

Mustard's Bagels is centrally located in a bustling and convenient area of Culver City, making it accessible for a quick stop-in breakfast or an easy weekend brunch takeout.

Address: 10850 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232, USA

The shop is situated in a location where Free Street Parking is often available, a welcome feature in the Westside, encouraging a stress-free visit. The establishment is designed for ease of use, providing a Wheelchair Accessible Entrance. It is ideal for a Quick Visit to grab and go, though sidewalk seating options may sometimes be available to enjoy your meal on the spot. Payment is made convenient with acceptance of major Credit Cards and Debit Cards.

Services Offered

• Retail of fresh bagels ("loosies") and bagel packs, available for pre-order and walk-up (subject to availability).
• Freshly prepared, gourmet open-faced bagel sandwiches made to order.
• House-whipped schmears (cream cheese) sold by the tub, with classic and unique flavor options.
• In-store pickup and Takeout service options for convenience.
• Serving seasonal, high-quality Filter Coffee, often rotating to feature different incredible roasts (note: coffee is served black without cream or sugar).
• Pre-order options for bulk bagel and schmear packages, especially for weekend brunch needs.
• Limited quantities of fresh, seasonal cakes.

Features / Highlights

• 72-Hour Fermented Sourdough Bagels: The core product is a distinctive, slow-fermented bagel with a crackly, blistered crust and a chewy, fluffy interior, providing a deep, complex flavor profile.
• Unique Bagel Flavors: Beyond the staples, they offer inventive options like Nori Everything (with roasted nori and sesame oil) and a traditional Everything mix that includes roasted sesame, Maldon flaky salt, poppy seed, garlic, onion, and caraway seed.
• Innovative Open-Faced Sandwiches: The specialty prepared bagels, which transform the simple bagel into a gourmet meal, are a major highlight.
• House-Smoked Nova Salmon: Their lox is cured and cold-smoked in-house using high-quality Scottish Salmon, offering a buttery and lightly smoky flavor profile for a premium experience.
• Creative Schmear Selection: House-whipped cream cheese flavors include unique offerings such as Miso Scallion Schmear and Chimichurri Schmear, providing a fresh take on traditional pairings.
• Vegan-Friendly Options: A commitment to dietary inclusivity with creative vegan bagel sandwiches like The Weezy and The Miles Andrew, proving that exceptional flavor doesn't require animal products.
• Locally Sourced Flour: Use of Tehachapi Grain Project heirloom whole wheat flour underscores a commitment to quality California ingredients.

Contact Information

Address: 10850 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232, USA

Note: Phone information is not publicly provided for direct contact. Please refer to their website for current operating hours and pre-order information.

What is Worth Choosing at Mustard's Bagels

For first-timers and loyal Californians, the following menu items truly represent the unique excellence of Mustard's Bagels and should be at the top of your list:

The Deanna Michelle: This signature bagel sandwich is the standout for many. It's an open-faced Roasted Sesame and Sea Salt bagel topped with sliced Persian cucumber, a bright lemon vinaigrette, house-made garlic chili oil, and the umami-rich Miso Scallion Schmear. Inspired by the flavors of a popular Asian cucumber salad, this unexpected combination is fresh, complex, and a brilliant culinary fusion that embodies the LA food scene.

The Grampa Sam: A sophisticated and elevated take on the classic lox bagel. It features the incredible House Smoked Nova Salmon, plain cream cheese, pickled white onions, fresh dill, and, crucially, a flurry of crunchy, salty fried capers. The Everything Bagel base adds the perfect counterpoint of garlicky, seeded flavor. This choice is proof that a classic can still be innovative and exciting.

The Weezy (Vegan): Perfect for those looking for a savory-sweet, dessert-for-breakfast experience. This vegan option features a house-made hazelnut cocoa spread, torched bananas, and a touch of honey on a Salted Plain Bagel. It's a comforting, indulgent, and surprisingly complex sweet treat that showcases the shop's versatility. (Note: The honey can be excluded for a strictly plant-based option, and blueberry compote is often available as a vegan add-on).

The Nori Everything Bagel: When buying "loosies" (un-sliced bagels) or a Bagel & Schmear, this flavor is a must-try. The addition of roasted nori (seaweed) and sesame oil to the everything seasoning blend provides a subtle, savory, and toasty umami dimension that is distinct from any other bagel in Los Angeles. Pair it with the Chimichurri Schmear for a vibrant, herby contrast.

Finally, be sure to grab a cup of their Seasonal Filter Coffee. Because it is intentionally served black, it allows the true, subtle flavors of the rotating, high-quality roasts to shine through, providing the perfect, clean complement to the rich, flavorful bagels and schmears. For a unique and artisan start to your day on the Westside, Mustard's Bagels is truly worth the visit.