Plaza Bagels & Deli

- 850 Van Houten Ave, Clifton, NJ 07013

A true New Jersey resident understands that a bagel is not just a bagel. It’s an art form, a matter of local pride, and a daily ritual that sets the tone for a perfect day. While many states try, only New Jersey has truly perfected the craft, with local shops specializing in the dense, chewy, and crispy-on-the-outside texture that our state’s soft water and old-world boiling-and-baking techniques create. For those in North Jersey looking for the real deal, there’s one family-owned institution in Clifton that consistently rises to the top: Plaza Bagels & Deli.

Since 1988, Plaza Bagels & Deli has been a staple in the Clifton community, building a legacy that extends far beyond a simple breakfast counter. It’s a place where customers feel the ‘family atmosphere’ and the food is undeniably 'made with love,' as many devoted patrons attest. This is more than a quick stop; it’s a destination for anyone seeking a truly authentic New Jersey bagel experience, whether you're grabbing a classic breakfast sandwich or picking up a baker’s dozen for the week.

The shop’s commitment to freshness is legendary. Bagels are not just baked once in the morning; they are baked 'continuously throughout the day' to ensure that every customer—whether an early riser or a late lunch-goer—gets a taste of that 'hot & fresh' goodness. This dedication to quality has earned Plaza Bagels & Deli a reputation as serving some of the 'Best Bagels in NJ,' with locals going out of their way just to get their daily fix. As one reviewer put it, 'When I think NJ bagels, this is my top pick. Absolutely delicious and great flavor and variety.'

Location and Accessibility

Plaza Bagels & Deli is conveniently located in the heart of Clifton, making it a familiar stop for commuters and a reliable neighborhood favorite. Its position on Van Houten Avenue ensures it is easy to find for both locals and those passing through the area looking for a taste of authentic Garden State fare.

The local knowledge of New Jerseyites often proves invaluable, and while the shop is immensely popular—which sometimes means a small wait outside during peak hours, a sure sign of a great bagel spot—the accessibility features help to streamline your visit.

The shop is situated at:

850 Van Houten Ave, Clifton, NJ 07013, USA

Parking is available on site with a free parking lot. For those requiring specific accommodations, the location includes a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, making this culinary gem accessible to everyone in the community.

Services Offered

Plaza Bagels & Deli is a full-service bakery and deli focused on providing quick, high-quality, and friendly service to its customers. The staff is frequently praised for being 'friendly and efficient,' and even going the extra mile, with one out-of-town customer noting the staff was 'very friendly and very good food' and even 'helpful' with directions. Their array of services is designed for maximum convenience, whether you’re rushing off to work or settling in for a satisfying meal.

• In-Store Pickup (Takeout): Perfect for placing an order ahead of time and grabbing your breakfast or lunch without the wait.
• Onsite Services: While often bustling, the availability of onsite services allows you to enjoy your food fresh from the grill.
• Delivery: For days when you can't make it to the shop, delivery options are often available through third-party platforms to bring the fresh taste of Clifton right to your door.
• Breakfast and Lunch Offerings: The menu spans from early morning bagels and omelets to hearty deli sandwiches and lunch favorites.
• Coffee Service: A full coffee service is available to pair perfectly with your freshly baked bagel or egg sandwich.
• Payment Flexibility: Customers can pay using all major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for a quick, cashless transaction.
• Bulk Orders: With options like the Baker's Dozen, the shop is ready to supply your office, family, or weekend gathering.

Features / Highlights

What makes Plaza Bagels & Deli stand out in a state packed with top-tier bagel joints? It comes down to a few key elements: a deep-seated commitment to classic New Jersey bagel quality and a menu that’s filled with beloved local specialties.

• The True NJ Bagel Texture: The bagels themselves are the main event, known for their 'perfect texture—thick, chewy, and soft,' which is the hallmark of a correctly boiled and baked New Jersey bagel.
• Family-Owned and Operated Since 1988: The shop has been 'family owned and run' for over three decades, providing a consistently authentic, quality experience that few chains can match.
• The 'Blazin Mozz Bagel': A local legend, this specialty item is a must-try. One delighted customer declared a 'blazin mozz bagel with lox cream cheese, avocado, and red onion' was 'the best bagel I've ever had,' and all for 'under ten dollars' at the time of their review.
• Exceptional Breakfast Sandwiches: Beyond the standard, Plaza Bagels’ breakfast sandwiches are famous. Customers rave that it’s 'not just any regular egg & cheese bagel,' with one calling it the 'Absolute best BEC I've ever had in my life.'
• Deep Deli Menu: The offerings go well beyond breakfast, including hearty omelets (like the Ham Omelet and Western Omelet, served with home fries and toast) and a full complement of deli items like delicious chicken salad, which is also highly recommended by loyal customers.
• Affordable Classics: Core menu items remain well-priced, such as the Bagel Twist for $1.75 and the Baker's Dozen for $10.80, making it an excellent value for a high-quality product.

What is Worth Choosing

For any new visitor or a long-time North Jersey resident who has yet to experience this gem, what should you choose? While a simple bagel with cream cheese (the Scallion Cream Cheese and Lox Cream Cheese are excellent choices) is the ultimate test of a good shop, a few standouts define the Plaza Bagels & Deli experience.

The hands-down recommendation is the Blazin Mozz Bagel. While the exact components of its base bagel are kept a house secret, the 'mozz' in the name suggests a savory, cheesy start, and combining it with a specialty schmear like Lox Cream Cheese and fresh toppings like avocado and red onion—as one customer raved—creates a flavor explosion that is pure North Jersey genius. This combination is a testament to the shop's creativity within the classic bagel format.

For a quick morning fix, you simply cannot go wrong with one of their famous Egg & Cheese Bagels, especially on an Everything or Asiago bagel (additional charge applies for specialty bagels). Customers frequently describe them as 'filled to perfection' with 'giant portions,' offering a satisfying start to any day.

If you are looking to feed a group, grabbing a Baker’s Dozen is the most economical way to get thirteen of the freshest, chewiest bagels in the state. Don't forget to grab your Scallion Spread or Lox Cream Cheese by the pound—because once you try the spreads at Plaza Bagels, you'll want to take them home.

This deli and bakery embodies everything locals love about New Jersey food culture: an unwavering commitment to quality, a deep history in the community, and a staff that treats you like family. Stop by Plaza Bagels & Deli in Clifton and experience why they have been the gold standard for North Jersey bagels since 1988.

Contact Information

Address: 850 Van Houten Ave, Clifton, NJ 07013, USA

Phone: (973) 777-2094

Plaza Bagels & Deli

850 Van Houten Ave, Clifton, NJ 07013, USA