Wombat Bagels

Wombat Bagels is a new locally owned bagel shop in West Jordan, and I’m a fan. The owner spent a lot of time figuring out the right recipe before opening the shop, including comparing bagels from around the country and testing different recipes. Before Wombat opened, I regularly visited chain bagel restaurants, so here’s how they compare. The chains have a full menu, lots of drink options, and people often order bagels by the box for a soccer game or team event. But in my opinion, their bagels are pretty lightweight. Great for grab-and-go, but far less filling. Wombat’s are noticeably different. They’re big and substantial, with more density and chew to them but enough fluffiness inside that they don’t feel heavy. My toddler grandson can easily eat through them–and he won’t eat anything that’s too crunchy. The bagels are made fresh daily, and you know you’ve eaten a bagel when you’re done. I haven’t tried all the flavors yet, but the cinnamon raisin is my favorite so far. I like it toasted with easy butter. Other choices include plain, everything, poppy seed, cinnamon sugar, sesame seed, jalapeño cheddar, and Seahive cheddar. Plus, they have artisan schmears like scallion, green chili, cannoli, maple pecan, berry, and a flavor of the month. You can get them plain or make a meal of it with one of their breakfast or lunch sandwiches. They have egg and cheese, bacon and egg, sausage and egg, avocado, cucumber, ham, turkey, BLT, tuna, and a few other choices. There’s also a pretty extensive drink menu with coffee, cold brew, lattes, chai, matcha, tea, smoothies, and more. I’m not a coffee drinker, though, and if you know me, you know this review is going to include the Diet Coke situation. There’s no Diet Coke on tap, but they do have canned soda and will happily give you a cup of ice and a straw. Works for me. Lastly, the ambiance. There’s a comfy couch, a little table for kids to play with blocks, and about three tables for four. The whole place feels bright, clean, and easy to settle into. Think modern Magnolia—great design, but still comfortable enough to hang out with friends. And for the days when you don’t have time to hang out, there’s a drive-thru. I still have plenty of the menu left to try, but so far, Wombat Bagels has earned a spot in my regular rotation. Oh, but be warned. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday–closed on Sunday and Monday. Wondering why “Wombat?” It was the owner’s childhood nickname.