A textbook 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. It's balanced with a thick layer of plain cream cheese and the 'trimmings.' It is remarkably consistent and sets the city-wide bar for smoked fish quality.
Tips from diners
Get it on an everything bagel, toasted. The combination of the salty seeds and the fatty salmon is the perfect New York breakfast bite.
The quintessential Russ & Daughters shared experience. The platter features their world-famous hand-sliced Gaspe Nova smoked salmon and buttery, spice-rubbed sable, served with a choice of house-made cream cheeses, plenty of fresh bagels, and traditional trimmings (tomato, onion, capers). It is a brilliant example of the 'appetizing' tradition—the foods that go with bagels—presented with impeccable sourcing and technique.
Tips from diners
This platter is the best value if you're a group of 3 or 4. The hand-slicing is what makes the fish so buttery—it's significantly better than any pre-packaged salmon you've ever had.
The platonic ideal of Jewish comfort food. A single, large matzo ball that is remarkably light and airy sits in a clear, intensely flavored chicken broth. It's seasoned with fresh dill and contains tender pieces of carrot. Reviewers describe it as tasting like home cooking, avoiding the saltiness of commercial versions.
A textbook execution of the Jewish classic. The potatoes are coarsely grated, resulting in a pancake with a lacy, shatteringly crisp exterior and a soft, savory center. At the Cafe, they are often served with a refined side of high-quality salmon roe and sour cream. Reviewers consistently praise their lack of greasiness.
While the original shop on Houston is a counter-service landmark, the Russ & Daughters Cafe on Orchard Street brings the family's 100-year heritage into a beautiful, full-service restaurant. The space is a brilliant example in modern-retro design, featuring white marble, leather banquettes, and a lively bar. It celebrates the Jewish 'appetizing' tradition with world-class smoked fish, creative cocktails, and hearty staples like latkes and matzo ball soup.
Reservations for the Cafe open 30 days in advance on Resy and are a hot ticket. If you can't find a spot, the bar is held for walk-ins and offers the full menu.
If you want to take smoked fish and bagels home, go to the original shop on Houston. If you want the sit-down experience with latkes and cocktails, head to the Cafe on Orchard. Both are essential, but the vibes are very different.
The line outside can look long, but it moves fast. Put your name in and head to the nearby Tenement Museum for a walk while you wait—it's part of the LES ritual.
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