Papa's Bagels

Papa's Bagels is a bagel bar in Newcastle West that attracts visitors who stumble across it. The bagels come out fresh from the oven, and the people behind the counter are friendly. The kitchen is open-plan, so you can watch the dough being cut and prepped before it goes in.

Locals describe the bagels as light and fluffy rather than the dense, chewy New York style, which makes them easy to eat. The bacon and egg bagel is a popular choice, and a pastrami bagel with handmade pastrami and a decent serve of filling gets plenty of praise. Others rave about the jalapeno bagel with garlic and chive cream cheese, the Italian herbs and cheese one, and the salmon and cream cheese on an everything bagel. If you lean sweet, there's a blueberry bagel, and the caramelised onion bagel has its fans too. The tater tots on the side are worth adding. For a simple start, one first-timer called a butter and Vegemite bagel with everything seeds unexpectedly brilliant.

It's more than a bagel counter. Coffee gets a good word, with one local calling it some of the best in Newcastle, and the staff know their roast. You can dine in, with indoor and outdoor seating that suits kids, or take your order away. Delivery is available, online ordering covers pickup and pre-orders, and they do catering. There are vegetarian options on the menu, and the entrance is wheelchair accessible. Custom cake orders are also offered, so ask if you have an occasion coming up.

Papa's Bagels is open every day from early to mid-afternoon, which suits a breakfast, brunch or lunch stop, though it's smart to look up the hours. One person did say it's a little pricey, but they felt it was worth it. One visitor bought extras to freeze and take home, and a couple went two days running.

If you're looking for a bagel in Newcastle West, this one is easy to recommend, whether you're after a quick coffee and bagel on the way to work or a relaxed sit-down brunch.