A more adventurous option that has become a cult favorite. A bagel of choice loaded with their famous whitefish and baked salmon salad, topped with horseradish cream cheese and wasabi-infused flying fish roe (tobiko). The wasabi provides a sharp, clearing heat that cuts through the rich, smoky fish salad. It's a texture-rich dish that showcases the shop's creativity.
Tips from diners
The wasabi roe is surprisingly spicy. If you're sensitive to heat, ask for it on the side or light.
The quintessential New York bagel sandwich. It starts with a hand-rolled, water-boiled bagel (plain or everything is traditional) topped with silky, hand-sliced Gaspe Nova smoked salmon. The salmon is fatty, salt-cured, and cold-smoked to a buttery consistency. It's balanced with a thick layer of plain cream cheese and the 'trimmings'—tomato, onion, and capers. It is remarkably consistent and sets the bar for smoked fish quality.
Tips from diners
Get it on an everything bagel, toasted. The hand-slicing is what makes it—machine-cut salmon just doesn't have the same texture.
Available primarily at the Cafe, this uses their legendary chocolate babka (a twisted yeast cake with chocolate swirls). The babka is thick-cut, dipped in a rich egg batter, and griddled until the chocolate begins to melt and the edges crisp. It's served with maple syrup and berries. It's intensely rich and a brilliant example of how to repurpose a classic Jewish bakery item.
A fourth-generation family business, Russ & Daughters is a cultural landmark. They specialize in 'appetizing'—foods that go with bagels—and are legendary for their sourcing of smoked fish, caviar, and dried fruits. While the original shop on Houston is a counter-service icon, the nearby Cafe offers a sit-down experience with the same world-class ingredients.
At the Houston Street shop, take a number as soon as you walk in. Even if it looks empty, people take numbers and wander away. Expect a 30-45 minute wait on weekend mornings.
The original shop is best for taking things home. If you want the sit-down experience with latkes and cocktails, head to the Cafe on Orchard Street (4 blocks away).
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