Long before bagels became a popular breakfast choice in Los Angeles, one man rolled them by hand in a modest shop in Boyle Heights. David Ustin grew up in bakeries in the Bronx, where his father, Louis, baked bagels to support their family after fleeing the Russian Revolution. At the age of thirteen, he was already working full-time.

When he heard someone say there were “no good bagels in California,” he took it personally. In 1947, he opened a bagel bakery in LA. While lox and cream cheese were common in New York delis, the West Coast had not yet experienced the chewy crust and dense bite of a kettle-boiled bagel.

With a simple recipe and a passion for preserving East Coast flavor, Ustin laid the foundation for what would become a multi-generational legacy. On day one, over 4,700 dozen bagels were sold, and a local tradition was born.

Over the next 75 years, Western Bagel helped bridge cultural gaps between the coasts. Today, the brand remains a cherished part of Southern California’s food scene and has grown into a broader presence, all while staying true to its family-owned roots.

The Expansion of Western Bagel from a Local Staple to a Well-Known Brand

Western Bagel started as a small business on Pico Boulevard and has since expanded to include ten retail locations throughout Los Angeles County. It has also developed a wholesale division that supplies supermarkets across the United States and an international shipping platform, allowing customers as far away as France and Japan to enjoy their bagels. While the company’s reach has expanded, its mission has largely remained consistent: to make premium bagels affordable without compromising on taste or craftsmanship.

This expansion was not an accident. Under the leadership of Steve Ustin, Dave’s son, the company expanded steadily and strategically. They streamlined wholesale operations and later invested in an online storefront, which allowed loyal customers around the globe to enjoy the same bagels they had been able to find in their neighborhood store. Western Bagel now produces over a million bagels a week, reaching both local regulars and international fans.

A New York Bite with a West Coast Vibe: What Makes a Western Bagel Different

Though deeply rooted in New York tradition, Western Bagel adapted its product to appeal to the tastes of its West Coast audience. While a New York bagel is often dense and crusty, Ustin introduced a slightly softer, more elastic texture, which appealed to Californians without sacrificing authenticity. This subtle change made the bagel more versatile and appealing for breakfast sandwiches, avocado spreads, and even post-workout protein snacks.

That’s why Western Bagel’s classic style delivers the familiar bagel experience without feeling too heavy.

Over the years, they’ve introduced more California-inspired flavors, like chocolate chip, jalapeño cheddar, and even blueberries. This spirit of innovation led to the launch of the “Alternative Bagel” line in 2002, which catered to health-conscious eaters seeking low-carb, high-protein options without sacrificing flavor or texture. As of 2025, the brand continues to respond to customer preferences, aligning with the growing demand for artisanal, functional breakfast foods.

What has remained consistent is their method. These bagels are still kettle-boiled and baked traditionally because shortcuts are not part of the Western Bagel philosophy.

A Family Legacy, Three Generations Strong

What truly sets Western Bagel apart is the family behind it. The business has remained in the Ustin family for three generations, an increasingly rare feat in the modern food industry. Founded in 1947, Western Bagel began as a small neighborhood shop in Boyle Heights. Dave missed the bagels of his childhood, which were uniquely chewy on the inside and crisp on the outside, so he began making his own—the old-fashioned way. Every morning, he hand-rolled the dough and baked each batch carefully, introducing Los Angeles to a bagel made with East Coast heart and West Coast hustle.

75 Years Strong and Still Growing

Being in business for over 75 years is no small feat, but Western Bagel is not resting on its laurels. The family is exploring new product lines that cater to the demands of modern consumers, such as improving their online shopping experience and investing in sustainability as food culture evolves. Western Bagel is committed to growth while staying connected to its roots, whether that means developing healthier recipes, serving a vegan clientele, or deepening its wholesale relationships.

Ready for a dozen shipped to your door? Visit https://www.westernbagel.com.

Published by Jeremy S.