Bagel shop with a clean, spacious layout and a busy atmosphere. Known for fresh, flavorful bagels considered among the best in Brooklyn, it operates as a takeout-only spot with an often disorganized line.
"The bagels here are fresh and delicious."
"The food is tasty but prices and quality vary."
"The prices feel fair but sometimes pricey."
Good to know
The price of a bagel varies significantly, from $1.75 to $3.25 for the same exact bagel.
You will pay double for a bagel and coffee now.
There is no dine-in available.
Deli offers a retro vibe with warm, homey atmosphere and classy servers. Pickled herring delivers a spiced flavor that pairs well with homemade bagels and latkes. Smoked salmon shines in dishes with perfectly paired ingredients like cream cheese and capers.
"The smoked salmon here is almost like sashimi, it's so good."
"The smoked salmon here tastes fresh and amazing."
"The pickled herring trio was so tasty, my favorite dish."
Good to know
Making a reservation is necessary to avoid a wait of over an hour.
Expect to wait on busy weekend mornings; arrive early to get on the list.
No reservations are accepted, so expect long waits on weekends.
Tiny counter inside a market offers extensive cured and smoked fish selections with a focus on high-quality Scandinavian flavors. Atmosphere suits people watching with access to a large beer menu nearby. Limited hours align with market schedule, emphasizing specialty smoked salmon and herring.
"I've never eaten smoked salmon like this before."
Good to know
Takeaway is available, making it convenient for a quick meal.
Limited hours of operation align with Essex Market's schedule; plan accordingly.
Expect a variety of smoked and pickled fish options available for takeaway.
Small shop buzzes with history and calm despite crowds. Curry herring offers bold flavors, paired well with creamy whitefish salad. Dense smoked salmon lacks fishy taste, served on bagels with spicy horseradish and cream cheese. Outdoor benches invite quick, classic bites.
"The smoked salmon and bagels are fresh and tasty."
"The smoked salmon here tasted incredibly fresh and had a great salt level."
"The herring here is excellent, with a clean taste."
Good to know
You must take a number when you first enter to be served.
There is no dine-in option; it's takeout only.
Expect long wait times, often over an hour, especially after 10am.
Gourmet grocery store buzzes with specialty cheeses and rich coffee aromas. Pickled herring in creamy sauce and smoked white fish sit near fresh rye bread. Smoked salmon shines in Nova Scotia slices and creamy bagel sandwiches.
"The smoked salmon and bagels here taste amazing."
"I thought the smoked salmon bagel was delicious."
"I loved the mix of smoked salmon, babka, and knish."
Good to know
Parking is abysmal, so plan accordingly.
There is no restroom available for customers.
The #1 subway stop is right next to Zabar's for easy access.
Small shop offers a charming homage to Jewish culture with limited seating and a cozy vibe. Atmosphere feels like a friendly neighborhood joint with a great deli selection featuring exceptional bagels and lox. Energy stays relaxed, inviting people to enjoy classic flavors in a simple setting.
"I love the fresh bagels and tasty smoked fish."
"The place has a nice vibe but ordering can be confusing."
"The food tastes great but feels a bit pricey."
Good to know
Expect to pay around $10 for a bagel with cream cheese.
Credit cards incur an additional 3.5% fee on all transactions.
Takeout is recommended due to the small dining space.
Quintessential New York deli with nostalgic 1970s-1980s decor and classic American diner vibe. Atmosphere feels genuine and evocative, offering huge booths ideal for groups and a plentiful takeout counter. Small, cozy interior packed with tables creates an intimate, bustling setting.
"I love the classic pastrami and corned beef sandwiches here."
"The cheesecake slices here are huge and absolutely delicious."
"The egg creams can be hit or miss, but some are quite good."
Good to know
The average person should share a plate due to the size of the portions.
They add a 3.5% surcharge when you pay your bill with any credit card.
If you pay with cash, they will take 5% off the bill.
Bagel shop blends retro style with modern design, offering pickled herring paired with drinks and fresh smoked salmon on bagels. Friendly staff create an energetic vibe amid peaceful or busy times. Free cream cheese samples add to the tasty experience.
"The smoked salmon here is thinly sliced and incredibly delicate."
"I love their fresh, flavorful smoked salmon bagels."
"The classic smoked salmon bagels taste great but could use more salmon."
Good to know
You need to get a ticket before ordering to join the queue.
Expect to wait at least 30 minutes during peak hours.
To avoid the wait, consider ordering online for pickup.
Cozy spot with minimalist European style offers standout dishes like tangy pickled herring and expertly smoked salmon. Indoor seating feels modern and snug, while outdoor space is large but chilly. Reservations are smart for busy brunch times.
"The pickled herring with curry is surprisingly to die for."
"I love the pickled herring with curry."
"The smoked salmon dish was delicious, fresh, and flavorful."
Good to know
For brunch, you should reserve in advance because the place is small.
Outdoor seating is probably the only option on the weekend if you didn't make a reservation.
They close at 5pm and discreetly try to point you out for staying too late.
Old school New York deli offers pickled herring with sharp tang and pastrami smoked salmon on bagels. Cramped seating inside contrasts with spacious outdoor spots. Cozy, bustling vibe captures true Upper West Side charm.
"I enjoyed the smoked salmon with bagels and latkes."
"The smoked salmon and sturgeon here are famous and tasty."
"I loved the smoked salmon on a bagel with capers."
Good to know
This restaurant only accepts cash; no credit cards are allowed.
Cash is the only payment method, so come prepared.
Expect long lines; visit during the week for shorter waits.