It's on 6 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- Cost$24
- Address541 Amsterdam Avenue (at 86th Street)
- From my guide, updated June 2026.
541 Amsterdam Avenue (at 86th Street), Upper West Side. Barney Greengrass has been calling itself the Sturgeon King since 1908, and nobody has challenged the title because the sturgeon is, in fact, incredible. This is another appetizing store, like Russ and Daughters, focused on smoked fish, bagels, and eggs.
The scrambled eggs with Nova ($24) are legendary. Fluffy scrambled eggs with silky smoked salmon mixed in, served with a bagel on the side. The sturgeon (sold by the quarter pound, around $18) is rich, buttery, and unlike any other smoked fish you’ve had.
The restaurant side is cash only (yes, still, in 2026) and the vibe is old-school in the best way. Formica tables, fluorescent lights, waiters who’ve been there for decades. If you’re looking for the best bagels on the Upper West Side, starting here is not a bad plan.
I’m reluctant to mention Barney Greengrass because the place is already so popular among locals, but I’d be doing you a disservice if I didn’t. Known as “The Sturgeon King of New York” this institution has been serving the Upper West Side since 1908.
Best known for knock-out smoked fish and lox, which U.S. Presidents have shipped directly to the White House (seriously). They churn out some of the best bagels and lox in New York City and the Upper West Side is lucky to have them.
Unpopular opinion. Unpopular opinion. Most “famous” bagel shops are riding on reputation alone. Zabar’s is actually better.
One of the most iconic restaurants in New York City, Barney Greengrass dates back to 1908. The Jewish deli is famous for serving some of the best bagels and lox in NYC. Don’t just take my word for it, U.S. Presidents have had it shipped directly to the White House for events.
When we first moved to the neighborhood, my husband I made a tradition of starting every Saturday with a lox bagel from Barney Greengrass. If you’re feeling a bit more fancy, you’ll be happy to know that Barney Greengrass offers table-service as well. The menu highlights Jewish classics like latkes, matzo ball soup and bialys.
Dating back to 1908, Barney Greengrass is an Upper West Side institution famous for knock-out smoked fish. No, seriously, U.S. Presidents have had it shipped to the White House. They churn out some of the best lox and bagels on the Upper West Side and the neighborhood is lucky to have them. A friend dragged me here years ago and I’ve been a devoted regular ever since. You’ll understand why after one visit.
Dating back to 1908, Barney Greengrass is an Upper West Side institution famous for their knock-out smoked fish. No, seriously, U.S. Presidents have requested it for special occasions at the White House. They churn out some of the best bagels and lox in NYC and the UWS is lucky to have them.
Further Reading.You Asked, We Delivered. Here’s the 15 Best Bagels in NYC
Dating back to 1908, Barney Greengrass is an Upper West Side institution famous for knock-out smoked fish. No, seriously, U.S. Presidents have had it shipped to the White House. They churn out some of the best lox in New York City and the Upper West Side is lucky to have them.