Had an average experience at best at this place a few months back but decided to try it out again. Was much better the second time around. Great menu but almost feels overwhelming looking through all the options. I think the best part of the sandwich is the ingredients, but the bagels are still not my favorite. Not the place if you’re looking for an airy fluffy bagel, but certainly a good bagel sandwich loaded with bacon sausage cheese and peppers. The staff is helpful and friendly which is always a plus.
My friend introduced me to this spot by telling me it was her favorite bagel spot in Chicago. 12 years later, this is still my favorite place to get a bagel/bialy sandwich. The vibe is funky and authentic. I love reading the past sandwich specials they have on the wall (they are often hilarious and delicious-sounding). There are TONS of options, even for vegetarians like myself! My favorite is the Greg-O. The ingredients always taste fresh, and they do not skimp on filling up those sandwiches. Thank you for being a Chicago staple, CBA!
I really enjoyed a sandwich at the Chicago Bagel Authority!
The steamed bagel experience is definitely something different, there's sort of a mushiness to the bagel, but was still really good.
I got the Oak Pork and enjoyed it immensely, with a nice coffee as well. They have an absolutely huge menu, so there's something for everyone. It was a nice place to sit as well, and there's some nice art & decorations.
My favorite bagel spot in chicago!! The portions are definitely filling and there is a lot of variety of sandwiches to choose from. There wasn’t much of a wait and the service there is always great and fast. 🥯👏
HHagzOct 2025 · Google
★★★★★CBA has Fantastic bagel sandwiches with a huge selection. The bagels are fresh and steamed not toasted super nice chew to it and all the ingredients are fresh...This is one of my favorite places in Chicago for a bagel
The staff is helpful and knowledgeable. Your biggest problem will be selecting out of the over 100 options! 100% recommend!
MMercyApr 2025 · Google
★★★★★Cool place to stop by for a bagel. I definitely ordered the wrong bagel when i visited so it wasn’t what i wanted but it was still tasty. If you order properly and make sure you’re right or maybe ask, you won’t be disappointed with your bagel. Their menu offers many options to choose from, so pick carefully. The customer service was great and the place has an awesome atmosphere. Plus the stickers here are cool. Give it a try if you’re in the area or if you’re craving a bagel.
Best bagels in the city. I can't eat toasted bagels anymore. Plus the music here is always so good. I can barely eat in cafes anymore bc so many blast awful, loud music. Not at CBA. I've even discovered new artists from their playlists.
menu is crazy and always flavorful. staff is always polite. Love the seating area on the other side of the restaurant. only reason I couldn’t give it five stars is because everytime I go, the potions (even the bags of chips) have gotten smaller & smaller. Shrinkflation wins again. Still super bomb food and definitely go here