Courage Bagels

Tucked into the Virgil Village neighborhood, Courage Bagels has earned its reputation as the go-to spot for LA’s finest bagels since opening in 2020. This isn’t your typical East Coast bagel joint—instead, it’s a thoroughly Californian experience where Montreal-style bagels meet farmers’ market-fresh ingredients and a distinctly unhurried pace.

The star of the show is their signature Montreal-inspired bagel: smaller, thinner, and sweeter than its New York counterpart, with an almost charred exterior that delivers a satisfying crack with every bite. The Hand-Sliced Smoked Salmon is exceptional—paper-thin cured fish draped over a dense, crackly base, crowned with the juiciest heirloom tomatoes and fragrant dill. The Run It Through The Garden is a revelation, piled so high with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, capers, and lemon slices that it could double as a salad.

The vibe here is unapologetically relaxed. Yes, the lines can snake around the block and waits might stretch to 45 minutes, but the staff radiates genuine warmth—they’ll compliment your outfit or chat about the weather while you order, making each interaction feel personal rather than transactional. It’s the kind of place where slowing down is part of the experience.

Plan your visit for a weekend morning when you have nowhere else to be. Order by the half so you can try multiple creations, and definitely add a loose burnt everything bagel to really appreciate that unique technique. Just be mindful of the neighbors and keep off the sidewalks and grass—with crowds this devoted, it’s the least we can do.