Is there anything better than a bagel in the morning? There’s a fierce debate at Penn State on where to find the best bagel downtown, especially among the New Jersey and New York students.

Two names always come out on top, Bagel Crust and Irving’s. Here at Onward State, our staffers have some strong opinions on where to find the best bagels.

Brooke Bilski: Team Bagel Crust

Though I do believe Irving’s has a great cup of coffee and an even better bagel, nothing can beat Bagel Crust. Picture this: it’s a Sunday morning, and after a long weekend of tailgating games and bar hopping, you just have that craving. Where else in State College will you find those “Special Sandwiches” like the “Walk of Shame” or the “Hangover?” 

Yes, Irving’s has bagels and a bagel sandwich, but do they also have deli sandwiches and omelets? And don’t forget about Bagel Crust’s tacos. Let’s also not forget about their two locations in Downtown State College. Whether you live on the east or west side of campus, you have a Bagel Crust just minutes away. 

So next time you’re stuck in that long Irving’s line or waiting for your order, remember these things and choose Bagel Crust. 

James Russell: Team Irving’s

The line is long for a reason. I, myself, have been a longtime Bagel Crust patron. I live a short walk from a downtown location. Each Bagel Crust location feels crammed, especially the one on Beaver Avenue. During the weekends, when you swing that door open, you’ll be greeted by an unpleasant, packed crowd, spilling out of the dining room. All are dealing with the consequences of the morning after, heads drooped over their phones, periodically peering into the kitchen, impatiently waiting to pick up their order.

Bagel Crust does serve Tacos, and that’s neat. But, as the name suggests, it’s in the bagel business. Irving’s bagels come out fresh and hot. The shell of the bagel snaps, crunching with each bite. It unveils the soft, fluffy interior. Irving’s never disappoints, especially when it comes to breakfast sandwiches. For being tucked away in the mountains of Pennsylvania, it may suffice for the bagel-crazed New Yorkers.

The café does sell a variety of lunch menu items, but that’s not why we’re here. The coffee selection is robust; they offer far more than Bagel Crust, which only goes as far as a hot or iced latté. Irving’s offers a warm atmosphere with plenty of seating and bakery items stacked in front of the register.

Realistically, you can be hungover and find yourself in either one of these stores.

The real question: Where would you go sober?