My family and I hit up Einstein Bagels almost every weekend on our way to Descanso Gardens. Not sure Iβd call them the best, but they are tasty.
Westside: Popβs Echo Park: Brooklyn Bagel (!!!!!) β i used to go there religiously when i lived in dtla and i think about it constantly
I really enjoy the East Coast Bagel location in Irvine. There's one in MDR but never been to that one.
Pops is great (new-style). Bagel Broker on Beverly has more of the old-school NYC vibe, it's my fav (but far). I don't bother with places with long lines, so idk about courage (it's also super far).