The Kettle Black

"At the Kettle Black in Northern Liberties, husband-and-wife team Marc Basile and Claire Ogilvie make traditional French viennoiseries and breads that are genuinely wonderful — and while it seems far-fetched, the bakery’s croissants, pain au chocolat, and cinnamon buns have just-as-good vegan counterparts. Whatever else you do, don’t miss the bubbly bagels." - Ernest Owens, Eater Staff

"The super bready bagels at Northern Liberties' The Kettle Black are the best in the neighborhood. There’s no pre-ordering here, and you’ll usually find six daily options like everything, sesame, pretzel, cheddar jalapeno pretzel, with specials like spinach and artichoke. It’s a great place to pick your favorite bagel and get it topped with salmon cream cheese, tomatoes, onions, and capers, and some vegan-friendly options like house-made vegan lox. And since we all love unique takes and colored bread (looking at you, rainbow bagel hive), go for at least one slightly sweet and nutty black sesame bagel when you can. It’s deep space dark (which makes the sesame seeds the stars), delicious, and just super cool to look at. " - candis mclean, alison kessler

"The bubbly and golden photogenic bagels at the Kettle Black taste just as good as they look. Vegan diners will be especially happy here: Toppings include dairy-free spreads. Walkups only, so get there early — this Northern Liberties bakery sells out." - Ernest Owens, Eater Staff

"The super bready bagels at Northern Liberties' The Kettle Black are the best in the neighborhood. There’s no pre-ordering here, and you’ll usually find six daily options like everything, sesame, pretzel, cheddar jalapeno pretzel, with specials like spinach and artichoke. It’s a great place to pick your favorite bagel and get it topped with salmon cream cheese, tomatoes, onions, and capers, and some vegan-friendly options like housemade vegan lox. And since we all love unique takes and colored bread (looking at you, rainbow bagel hive), go for at least one slightly sweet and nutty black sesame bagel when you can. It’s deep space dark (which makes the sesame seeds the stars), delicious, and just super cool to look at." - Candis R. McLean

"This Northern Liberties spot makes serious bagels, seasonal loaves, croissants, pastries, and pretzels that are all top contenders for the best bread in Philadelphia, with some great vegan options to boot. It’s walk-up only, and open in the morning from Thursday to Sunday, so when the mood strikes for something carb-y, be prepared. Coffee and specialty lattes are also available." - Dayna Evans, Sarah Maiellano