Posted on: 11/15/25
When it comes to freshly baked bagels, most people immediately think of the classic New York favorite with its golden crust and chewy inside. At Bagels ‘n Grinds, we’re proud to bring authentic New York style bagels Maryland residents can enjoy every single day. But while bagels might be our specialty, they aren’t the only bread worth talking about. Flagels and bialys also hold a place in the history of traditional bakery fare, and we’re often asked what makes them different. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between these three beloved items and why they continue to hold such a loyal following.
A bagel is more than just a round piece of bread with a hole in the middle—it’s a product of careful technique. The authentic method begins with dough that’s boiled before baking, giving bagels their signature texture. At our locations in College Park, Hanover, and Potomac, we’ve elevated this tradition by perfecting a proprietary 10-step process. One of the most important steps is using ultra-purified water that mimics New York City’s mineral content. This ensures our bagels achieve the crisp exterior and soft, chewy interior that fans expect.
Every morning, starting at 5:30 a.m., we bake sixteen varieties so our guests can always enjoy bagels at their freshest. From classic plain and sesame to everything bagels and seasonal specialties, the variety makes it easy to find your favorite. And of course, bagel sandwiches Maryland customers crave are always on the menu, whether you’re in the mood for an egg breakfast sandwich, a turkey club, or one of our signature Bagini sandwiches.
If you love bagels but wish for something a little lighter, the flagel might be the perfect choice. A flagel is essentially a bagel that has been flattened before baking. This simple difference in shape results in a thinner bread with more surface area for that golden-brown crust. Many people enjoy flagels because they’re easier to slice and spread with shmear, or because they provide the flavor of a bagel with fewer calories and less density.
Flagels are also ideal for sandwiches, since the flatter shape makes them less bulky and easier to eat on the go. Whether filled with smoked salmon, piled high with deli meat, or stacked with fresh vegetables, flagels offer a satisfying alternative without sacrificing flavor. We keep them fresh in our bakery rotation so that anyone looking for a lighter twist on the traditional bagel can enjoy them just as much.
While bagels and flagels share the same roots, the bialy has its own unique story. Originating in Bialystok, Poland, this cousin of the bagel looks similar but is quite different. Instead of being boiled, bialys are baked, which creates a softer, chewier bread with a slightly matte finish. Instead of a hole in the center, a bialy features a small depression filled with ingredients like onions, garlic, or poppy seeds.
The flavor of a bialy is distinct—it’s less dense than a bagel, more airy, and carries a subtle savory note thanks to its traditional toppings. Bialys are especially popular toasted and enjoyed with butter, though they also make a wonderful base for creative spreads and toppings. If you’ve never tried one before, it’s worth discovering how this old-world bread differs from its more famous relatives.
At Bagels ‘n Grinds, we believe that variety is part of what makes breakfast—and lunch—so enjoyable. While bagels remain our most popular item, flagels and bialys add an extra dimension to the menu. They allow our guests to try something new while still enjoying the comfort of traditional bakery fare. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast bagels Maryland locals love, grabbing a quick flagel sandwich before class, or savoring a toasted bialy with your morning coffee, there’s something for every taste.
Our cafés are designed to make the experience even more enjoyable. Each location offers an inviting atmosphere with free Wi-Fi, LED TVs, fireplaces, and plenty of seating. We’re more than just a bagel shop—we’re a place where friends meet, students study, and business meetings happen over coffee and bagels Maryland guests know are made with care.
Of course, our menu doesn’t stop with bagels, flagels, and bialys. We’re proud to serve omelet-style egg breakfast sandwiches, freshly prepared salads, hearty soups, and a wide selection of pastries. Many guests come for our bagini sandwiches, a panini-style creation pressed on our signature bagels, which has quickly become a favorite. For those seeking lighter fare, we also offer healthy lunch salads Maryland families appreciate, made with fresh ingredients and cooked-in-house poultry.
Pair any of these with a drink from our 18-foot beverage station, featuring six varieties of hot coffee, iced coffee, soda, and freshly brewed iced teas—all made with the same purified water that makes our bagels taste so special.
We’re proud to be part of the communities we serve, and our commitment goes beyond what’s on the menu. Through catering services, we bring bagels to events of all sizes, making it easy for schools, offices, and families to share the authentic taste of New York style bagels. We also offer a bagel rewards program that thanks our loyal guests and keeps them coming back for more.
In addition, we actively partner with local schools, organizations, and nonprofits, providing support through fundraising and sponsorships. For us, it’s about more than food—it’s about building lasting connections.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of bagels, curious to try a flagel, or ready to experience a bialy for the first time, we invite you to stop by Bagels ‘n Grinds. With three convenient locations in College Park, Hanover, and Potomac, we’re here to share the tradition and flavor of authentic baking with every guest who walks through our doors.
If you’d like to learn more about our menu, catering services, or rewards program, visit our contact page or give us a call. We look forward to welcoming you and helping you find your new favorite.
