Just a quick five minutes from the halls of WCHS, Cabin John Village has always been the place for Bulldogs to hang out or grab a quick bite to eat throughout the day. Now, it is even harder to resist the trip down Seven Locks Road due to a recent addition. As a local favorite for over 40 years, Bethesda Bagels has officially opened a new location in the plaza.
This delicious bagel shop, founded in 1982, started out as a small shop in Bethesda Row, looking to bring New York-style bagels to the D.C. metro area. What began as a man’s mission to fix the “bagel problem” in D.C. has since transformed into six bustling locations all over the area. Even after all these new locations opened, the bagel shop continues to be family-run with hand-rolled bagels every morning. This new Cabin John location continues the legacy, providing the same moist, chewy and perfectly toasted bagels.
Upon first entering the shop, the space feels cozy and well-lit, exactly what students need on a chilly morning right before first period. The decorations in the shop are simple and modern, with inviting displays of bagels that make choosing just one all the more difficult. Seating is limited, so most customers just grab their food and go. There is just enough space to sit and chat for smaller groups of people. However, larger parties may not find suitable seating as the largest table sits about 4 people.
During busy hours, the line can fill the small space quickly, and there is no clear place to stand when waiting for your order. However, the staff is very patient and handles busy times with a smile. Also, the service is very good, and most orders arrive in less than five minutes.
Bethesda Bagel’s plain bagel is perfect in its simplicity, with a slight crunch on the outside and perfect chewiness and moisture on the inside. It is the perfect base for any spread or sandwich that is desired. Its subtle flavor and warmth allow the bagel to stand out, while complementing the other spreads and toppings offered in Bethesda Bagels.
Bethesda Bagel’s blueberry bagel is dotted with real blueberries, creating an authentic flavor. The bagel has the perfect soft texture on the inside and is flavorful without being too overwhelming. Although the blueberries were subtle, it was perfectly sweet.
The mini bagels provide the perfect amount for a quick snack when feeling a little hungry. The sesame bagel provides a good balance of crunch and nuttiness, while remaining moist on the inside. The everything bagel provides a variety of toppings, such as sesame, poppy, onion, garlic and salt. While many customers hope for a few more seeds to add a little extra flavor and crunch, it is ideal with fluffy cream cheese or as an egg sandwich.
Last but certainly not least, no Bethesda bagel is truly complete without its signature cream cheese. Fluffy, smooth and spreadable, the cream cheese elevates the bagels with its richness, complementing each flavor. There are many different varieties of cream cheeses at Bethesda Bagels, so there is an ability to choose whichever one you want with your bagel based on your mood. Savory flavors like jalapeno cheddar or lox bring out the depth of the bagel, while sweet options like strawberry or honey walnut balance for a sweet, dessert-like taste. It is truly this small detail that makes Bethesda Bagels stand out.
Prices are very affordable and student-friendly, considering the quality. A single bagel is about $2.30, while a packed breakfast sandwich is about $9. Even a full dozen bagels comes just under $25, perfect for sharing with friends or bringing to a club meeting. For frequent visitors, Bethesda Bagels offers a reward program called Bagel Bucks to help you save money. This program lets customers earn points for each dollar spent, which can add up fast for anyone going regularly.
Bethesda Bagels also offers take-out, online orders and delivery through third-party sources like Uber Eats. Additionally, their catering could benefit the WCHS community for PTSA meetings, club events or team breakfasts. Their catering menu varies from breakfast platters to customizable breakfast sandwiches.
Overall, Bethesda Bagels brings a rich, flavorful and convenient addition to Cabin John Village. With its welcoming atmosphere, quick service and authentic New York-style bagels, it is a perfect WCHS student hangout spot. Whether it is pre-test breakfast or a lunch escape, this new local shop gives WCHS students another reason to get out of bed in the morning.
