Lady Gaga’s go-to bagel order: Here's how you can recreate it at home

When it comes to New York City icons, Lady Gaga and bagels both top the list. So when Gaga recently appeared on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," and revealed her favorite bagel orders, fans naturally paid attention. The singer and actress didn’t just share her guilty pleasure; she gave us a glimpse into her fast-paced NYC routine and her more leisurely, indulgent mornings.

Colbert asked Gaga about her go-to order, and she admitted that when she’s in a rush, she keeps it classic: a regular toasted bagel with butter. It’s simple, satisfying, and straight to the point. And while this is the NYC breakfast shortcut at its best, she indulges in something more elevated from time to time.

Here’s the inside scoop on Lady Gaga’s bagel habits and a guide to recreating her order no matter where you live.

The Indulgence: Bagel Lox

When she has more time, Gaga upgrades to a classic New York delicacy. For her, the bagel lox is all about layering smoked salmon with fresh tomato slices, then topping it off with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Here’s how to build it Gaga-style:

• Start with a quality bagel — an everything or sesame bagel works beautifully.
• Spread cream cheese generously on both halves.
• Add smoked salmon (lox) in silky slices across the cream cheese.
• Top with fresh tomato slices, as juicy as you can find.
• Season with salt and cracked black pepper.

Some New Yorkers might add capers or red onions. Try both options.

Bringing NYC Bagels to Your Kitchen

Not everyone can pop into a New York deli on a whim. But with a little effort, you can replicate Gaga’s favorite bagels at home. Try to look for local bakeries that boil their bagels before baking.

Source good smoked salmon from your local deli or specialty store. Always season your tomatoes; salt and pepper make all the difference.

How to Make Bagels at Home

There’s nothing quite like a fresh, chewy bagel straight out of the oven. While New York City bagels are legendary, you don’t need to book a flight to taste the magic; you can make them right in your kitchen. 

Here’s a foolproof way to get that classic golden crust and tender, chewy inside.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For about 8 bagels:

• 4 cups bread flour (or all-purpose, but bread flour gives more chew)
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (around 110°F)

For boiling:

• 2 quarts of water
• 2 tablespoons barley malt syrup (or honey/sugar if you can’t find it)
• 1 tablespoon baking soda

Optional toppings:

1. Sesame seeds
2. Poppy seeds
3. Everything bagel seasoning
4. Sea salt

Step 1: Make the Dough

• In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
• Add flour and salt, then stir until a rough dough forms.
• Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook if you prefer.)
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.

Step 2: Shape the Bagels

• Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into a ball.
• Poke a hole in the center with your finger, then gently stretch it into a ring shape (about 2 inches wide in the middle).
• Place shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and let rest for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Boil the Bagels

Boiling is the secret to that chewy, glossy crust.

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Bring water, barley malt syrup, and baking soda to a gentle boil.
• Drop bagels in, 2–3 at a time, and boil for 1 minute per side.
• Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Add Toppings

• While still damp from boiling, sprinkle on sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning. Press lightly so they stick.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake bagels for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.
• Cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips for Extra NYC Vibes

1. Use bread flour for that signature chewy texture.
2. Don’t skip the boil, that’s what makes a bagel a bagel (not just a bread roll).
3. For extra shine, you can brush the bagels with an egg wash before baking.