Everything bagel seasoning has become a kitchen superstar. You sprinkle it on eggs, avocado toast, veggies, basically everything.
But behind that blend of sesame seeds, garlic, onion, salt, and poppy seeds lies an unexpectedly fun backstory.
If you’ve ever wondered who invented everything bagel seasoning, you’re not alone. Its origin story is as flavorful as the mix itself, filled with creativity, competition, and a little bit of New York magic.
A Flavor Born in New York’s Bagel Boom
To understand how everything bagel seasoning came to be, you have to picture the New York bagel scene in the 1970s and 1980s.
Bagel shops were everywhere, each trying to craft the perfect bite. The classic toppings, sesame, poppy, onion, and garlic, were staples, but someone decided to mix them all.
It wasn’t a corporate brainstorm or a recipe developed in a lab. It was street-level innovation born in busy bakeries, where experimentation was part of daily life.
The Debate Over the Real Inventor
When it comes to who invented everything bagel seasoning, things get a little messy. One of the most popular stories credits David Gussin, a New York bagel shop worker, with the discovery in the early 1980s.
The tale goes that he swept up leftover seeds from the oven and decided to coat a bagel with the mix instead of throwing it away. The result? A hit flavor that quickly gained attention.
But Gussin isn’t the only one who claims the title. Other New York bakers have said they were already using similar combinations before his so-called “accident.”
In reality, the idea probably evolved in several places at once. It was a moment of shared inspiration among bagel makers chasing new flavor territory.
From Local Legend to Grocery Store Staple
Once customers caught on, the everything bagel became a sensation. It wasn’t long before the seasoning itself stole the spotlight.
Fast forward to the 2010s, when Trader Joe’s launched “Everything but the Bagel” seasoning, and suddenly, everyone wanted a jar. From there, it became a social media darling, topping everything from pizza to popcorn.
What started as a simple bakery trick turned into a full-blown cultural trend, redefining how people use seasonings at home.
It’s fascinating how something so ordinary turned extraordinary, and the mystery around who invented everything bagel seasoning adds to its charm.
A Mix That Captures Culinary Creativity
In the end, we may never know who exactly invented everything bagel seasoning, but what matters more is what it represents: a mix of ingenuity, community, and bold flavor that turned a humble bagel topping into a kitchen essential.
It’s a reminder that great ideas often come from everyday moments, from people who experiment, take chances, and have fun with food.
Every time you shake that seasoning onto your meal, you’re tasting a bit of that creative spark that started it all.
Bring Bold Flavors to Your Table with SPQR Seasonings
Ready to explore bold, handcrafted blends inspired by culinary creativity?
At SPQR Seasonings, you’ll find premium spice mixes that elevate every dish, from everyday meals to gourmet creations. Every meal deserves a touch of boldness and creativity.
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