The Bagel Nook

When it comes to bagels in New Jersey, locals know there is no shortage of options. However, there is one establishment that consistently pushes the boundaries of the classic breakfast staple, turning a simple roll with a hole into a vibrant, unique, and unforgettable culinary experience: The Bagel Nook. Located in Ocean Township, this shop has established itself as a must-visit destination for anyone looking to add a little 'crazy' to their morning routine. Far from your average bagel joint, The Bagel Nook offers a menu packed with innovative creations that have earned it national attention and a loyal following right here in the Garden State.

The Bagel Nook set out with a simple yet ambitious plan: to create the craziest, most unique bagels in the world. Founded in 2015, the store quickly achieved this goal by introducing what they call 'Overloads' and a wide array of cereal-infused bagels and micro-batch cream cheeses. This commitment to innovation—while still honoring the tradition of boiling and baking for the freshest taste—is what has made this New Jersey original a true pop culture phenomenon. For New Jersey residents, especially those on their way to the Jersey Shore, The Bagel Nook offers a perfect blend of high-quality ingredients and pure, delicious fun. It’s a place that is as visually engaging as it is delicious, with a playful atmosphere that is often cited as a highlight by visitors.

The Ocean Township location of The Bagel Nook is conveniently situated for both local residents and travelers passing through the area. You can find this bagel shop at:

1100 NJ-35, Ocean Township, NJ 07712, USA

It is important to note that the shop is nestled within the popular retail landscape off Route 35, specifically in the same plaza as a major grocery store, which some long-time customers mention can make it slightly tricky to spot if you are not looking carefully. The central location, however, makes it an ideal stop for those heading to the nearby beaches or simply running errands in the Ocean Township area. Its hours of operation generally cater to the breakfast and lunch crowd, with doors opening early and closing in the early-to-mid afternoon. It is always a good idea to check the current operating schedule before planning your visit. The Bagel Nook's presence along a major state highway ensures easy access and plenty of parking, making it a viable option for a quick pick-up or a relaxed start to your day.

While bagels are undoubtedly the star, The Bagel Nook offers a comprehensive menu that extends well beyond a simple bagel with cream cheese. Their offerings cover breakfast, lunch, and a wide variety of catering options.

• Bagels and Spreads: An incredible selection of both classic and 'crazy' bagels, including cereal-based flavors like Fruity Pebble, Oreo, Captain Crunch, Coco Puff, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, along with traditional options such as Everything, Plain, Poppy, Sesame, and Pumpernickel.
• Micro-Batch Cream Cheese: A rotating selection of unique, specialty cream cheeses made in small batches to complement their inventive bagels. Flavors often include Cookie Monster, Birthday Cake, Oreo, Nutella, Crumb Cake, Cool Ranch, Jalapeño Cheddar, and the notable Pickled Dill.
• Breakfast Sandwiches and Omelets: Full breakfast options, including customizable egg sandwiches and signature creations like The Double Nooker (a triple-decker breakfast sandwich), The Fatty (with bacon, sausage, pork roll, and hashbrown), and various egg platters and omelets (such as Very Veggie, Western, and The Porker).
• Lunch Sandwiches and Wraps: A robust menu of deli sandwiches, paninis, and grilled items. Highlights include The Reuben, Turkey Club, Chicken Ranch Wraps, and specialty 'Truck Sandwiches' like The Big Daddy (cheesesteak, chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, and fries on a roll).
• Pancakes and French Toast: Traditional pancakes, short stacks, and gourmet French Toast varieties, including Fruity Pebble French Toast, Stuffed French Toast (sweetened cream cheese and strawberries), and Crazy Chocolate Chip French Toast (Nutella and bananas).
• Coffee and Beverages: A full coffee menu featuring standard coffee, iced coffees, and specialty drinks like 'Nookuccinos' and 'Coffee Overloads.' Fresh juices and teas are also available.
• Catering: The Bagel Nook offers platters for bagels, eggs, bacon, homefries, and baked goods for larger groups and events.

The Bagel Nook has achieved local fame and national recognition through a few key innovations that set it apart from other bagel shops in New Jersey.

• The 'Crazy' Bagels: The shop is renowned for its selection of cereal-infused and vividly colored bagels, such as the Tie-Dye and the Oreo. These flavors are truly unique in the local market and are made using the traditional New Jersey boil-and-bake process for a great texture.
• Bagel 'Overloads': These show-stopping creations combine a 'crazy' bagel with a corresponding micro-batch cream cheese and additional toppings. Examples include the Cookie Monster Overload (Oreo bagel, Cookie Monster cream cheese, Oreos, and chocolate chip cookies) and the Fruity Pebble Overload (Fruity Pebble bagel, birthday cake cream cheese, and strawberries). These items are highly photogenic and a major draw for the younger generation.
• The Butter Bar: A unique and innovative feature within the store, the Butter Bar offers a selection of specialty flavored butters. This concept adds another layer of customizability to even the simplest bagel order and has been praised by customers for its novelty.
• Innovative Cream Cheeses: The micro-batch approach allows for a constantly evolving and exciting menu of spreads, ranging from sweet to savory. The inclusion of vegan cream cheese options also shows a commitment to catering to all dietary needs.
• Friendly and Engaging Staff: Customers often remark on the friendly and helpful nature of the staff. Given the complexity and sheer volume of options on the menu, the team is known for being patient and willing to answer questions, enhancing the overall experience for first-time visitors.

To plan your visit or inquire about their menu and catering services, you can use the following information for The Bagel Nook in Ocean Township:

Address: 1100 NJ-35, Ocean Township, NJ 07712, USA

Phone: (732) 889-8252

For any New Jersey resident or visitor to Ocean Township, The Bagel Nook offers an experience that is worth seeking out. While the atmosphere is fun and bright, often sparking childhood nostalgia with its cereal-themed decor and products, the quality of the food and the sheer variety are the main draws.

If you are a traditionalist but want to experience The Bagel Nook’s unique flair, consider ordering a classic breakfast sandwich—many customers enjoy the quality of their basic offerings. If you prefer the comfort of familiarity, a plain bagel with a standard spread is available. However, a visit here truly calls for a foray into the 'crazy' section of the menu.

The specialty bagels, like the French Toast Bagel, are highly recommended as a base for a classic breakfast sandwich with egg and meat, offering a sweet and savory twist on an NJ favorite. For the adventurous palate, the unique combinations are the shop's calling card. Trying a savory option like the pickle dill cream cheese on a bagel, or indulging in a sweet overload like the Fruity Pebble Overload, are rites of passage for new visitors.

While some patrons note that the food is priced slightly higher than a typical bagel shop, the consensus is that the innovation, generous portions, and unique experience justify the cost. For those looking for a grab-and-go option before a beach day, or a memorable brunch item, the combination of quick service and unique product offerings makes The Bagel Nook a top-tier choice in the local area. It is more than just a bagel shop; it's a creative local business that has managed to stand out in a crowded market by delivering a consistently fun, high-quality, and inventive menu. Stop by and get your 'Nook' on!

The Bagel Nook

1100 NJ-35, Ocean Township, NJ 07712, USA