Christmas morning in my family has always meant bagels and lox for breakfast. Sure maybe it was a little strange that we ate traditional Jewish food on Christmas day, but we didn’t care. We still maintain that tradition today, but finding freshly-baked bagels on Christmas day remains a challenge, with most chain bagel stores closed. Luckily Bagel Factory, one of the best bagel places in town, is open from 6am to 1pm  on Christmas.

Bagel Factory, which is certified kosher (probably not an issue if you celebrate Christmas), continually bakes bagels throughout the day on the premises. Bagels are a $1.29 each or $12.49 for a baker’s dozen. With over 20 different types available, the combinations are seemingly limitless for that dozen.

Once you’ve received your bag, you’ll feel the heat from the fresh bagels, their fragrance filling the car. Bagel Factory bagels are nice and plump, rounded with curves and have a slight chewiness to them. When they’re fresh, there’s no need to toast them before eating.

The next day, a little toasting gives the bagels another dining experience. My garlic bagel improved after a spell in the toaster, crisping up the garlic, making it even more flavorful. All it needed was a bit of cream cheese. On the half without garlic, I added a little lox, tomato and cucumbers, another gustatory treat.

Good bagels are difficult to find in Los Angeles. While picking up Bagel Factory bagels on Christmas Day may seem like a hassle, I think it’s worth it for something that would even pass muster in New York.

Location – 3004 S. Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles 90034
Website – http://www.bagelfactoryinc.com
Kid-Friendly – Yes
Kid’s Menu – No
Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly – Yes
Gluten-Free Options – No