sandwiched between a chewy bagel and generously filled with colorful creams and fresh ingredients, sandwiches are the new dessert sensation. this irresistible dessert, which doubles as a hearty meal, has become an “open run” craze across the country. here are six of the hottest, must-visit bagel spots around the country.

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1. tootsies Up (Mapo, Seoul)

arguably the place that started the sandwich craze. the refreshing combination of chewy rice bagel and not-too-much cream is a masterpiece. among the many bagel restaurants, this place is considered a ‘one pick’ by many.

recommended: Strawberry bush bagel, patterned chestnut rice bagel
hours: Wed-Sat 12:30 – close while supplies last (Sun-Tue closed)
address: 1F, 53, Heeujeong-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea

2. magellan (Busan Swim)

a rising mochi bagel restaurant in Busan. in a space full of sentimentality like a mill, you can find a luxurious sandwich bagel, especially the black sesame cream cheese.

recommended: Dubai Mochi Rice Bagel, Black Sesame Cream Cheese Bagel
hours: Wed-Sun 12:00 – L.O. (Closed Mon, Tue)
address: 1F, 30, Yeonsu-ro 357beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan

3. hearts Bakery (Seongsu, Seoul)

hearts Bakery settled down in Seongsu-dong after making a name for itself with huge wait lists at each of its pop-up stores, and its edamame dessert has become a favorite since the launch of its “Perfect Edamame” bagel. it tastes even better when frozen for 1-2 hours after purchase.

recommended: Perfect Edamame, Nutty Doobai Chocolate
hours: Daily 11:30 – 20:30
address: 7, Yeonmujang 7-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul

4. little Bagel (Nam-gu, Ulsan)

a treasure found in Ulsan. rather than the chewy rice bagels we’re used to, they serve bagels with a fluffy texture. if you prefer a smooth milk cream base, this is the place to go.

recommended: Taro Bubble Sweet Potato Sandwich Bagel, Fig Pistachio Sandwich Bagel
hours: Mon-Sat 9:00 – 18:30 (closed on Sundays)
address: 26, Wangsang-ro 66beon-gil, Nam-gu, Ulsan

5. choryang Ondang (Dong-gu, Busan)

the pride of Busan and a mecca of bread pilgrimage that records huge weights every day. The sandwich bagel with an impossible combination of flavors is a standard open-run. all of their breads are delicious, and it’s worth traveling to Busan just for the sandwich.

recommended: Tarobammos Sandwich, Dubai Pistachio Sandwich
hours: Wed-Sat 12:00 – 19:00 (Closed Sun-Tue)
address: 135, Choryangjung-ro, Dong-gu, Busan

6. hippo Pound (Jeonju Wansan)

a ‘steamed bagel restaurant’ that started in Jeju and stretches all the way to Jeonju. The basic bagel itself is a must-buy, as it is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. The Greek yogurt-based cream and kaimak is a special attraction that can only be tasted here.

recommended Menu: shine Musket Greek yogurt, pistachio raw figs
hours: Fri-Sun 12:00 – 19:00 (Mon-Thurs closed)
address: 1F, 130, Girin-daero, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea

frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. do you have any tips for eating sandwiches?

A. Most sandwich bagels are filled with cream and are best eaten cold. as in the case of Hearts Bakery, you can enjoy a fluffier, cooler texture by refrigerating or lightly freezing the cream to slightly harden it, rather than eating it immediately after purchase.

Q. how are rice bagels different from regular bagels?

A. Rice bagels are made with rice flour, which gives them a much chewier and moist texture than regular flour bagels. they are also more easily digestible, which is why they are so popular. famous rice bagels include Tootsies Up and Magellan.

Q. is there any way to buy without waiting?

A. Most popular restaurants require an open run, but if you visit on a rainy weekday or just before closing time, you have a relatively good chance of getting in without a wait. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on each store’s Instagram announcements to see what’s in stock.