DiCocoa's in Bethel, Maine

DiCocoa's occupies a house on Bethel's Main Street, operating as a walk-up window cafe that doubles as a neighborhood gathering spot. They're known for bagels that regulars compare favorably to the best of New York and New Jersey, plus house-made gelato and baked goods. The owner's warm presence sets the tone. It's the kind of place you'll want to return to before you leave town.

• Bagels rival NYC quality with crisp exterior, soft fluffy inside.
• Homemade gelato, cookies, and artisanal cream cheese flavors.
• Warm owner and cozy residential storefront atmosphere.
• Close early, arrive first thing in morning for best selection.

Get the cheddar pepper bagel, plain bagel, or everything bagel. If you're there early enough, grab a chocolate chip cookie. Try the peanut butter fudge gelato or build an ice cream sandwich with cookie and gelato. The maple latte is a regular favorite, and the artisanal cream cheeses like jalapeno and scallion are worth ordering on the side.

It's a small, house-style storefront with porch seating. Quiet early in the morning, but lines form fast, especially before closing time.

The bagels anchor the menu. Plain, cheddar pepper, everything, and jalapeño are standouts. Their gelato comes in flavors like peanut butter fudge and blueberry. They also bake chocolate chip cookies and offer several artisanal cream cheeses, including pesto and scallion varieties. A maple latte is worth ordering if you're a coffee drinker.

Guests rave about bagels that match or exceed what they've found in New Jersey and New York. One recent visitor called the cheddar pepper bagel "other worldly" and noted the perfect balance of crisp exterior and fluffy interior. The owner is consistently described as sweet and charming. One regular said the maple latte will "forever" ruin them for other coffee.