I didn’t think Madrid was lacking anything but now I’ve found Mazál Bagels and Café I’m wondering how I survived without it all these years!
Joking aside, these bagels are the best I’ve had here in Madrid; boiled and baked daily, they are fresh, tasty and chewy just like I remember from New York.
There’s a good selection of flavours too, from traditional poppy seed, onion and plain to more innovative ones such as garlic, herbs and seeds, (the everything bagel) and my personal favourite featuring cheddar and jalapeños. I’m not alone in liking this one, so get there early if you want to sample it as it seems to sell out fast! You can buy a bag of bagels to go or eat in – there are lots of different filling options on the menu.
They do brunch from Thursday through Sunday – again, it is very popular so make sure to book – Mazál is small inside and has only a few tables. Brunch comes with French toast or a bagel and you can choose from cream cheese, egg and cheese or smoked salmon fillings, amongst others, along with coffee or tea, juice and yoghurt with fruit and granola. I’m always surprised at how expensive brunch can be in Madrid; by contrast, Mazál’s is very reasonably priced.
So there you have it! If you are longing for a good bagel or maybe want to see what all the fuss is about, check out this friendly little cafe/bakery in the heart of Chamberi.
