Last Updated: ~1 month ago
Phone: (212) 724-4707
Address: 541 AMSTERDAM AVENUE 10024
The "Sturgeon King" of NYC—classic Jewish appetizing, legendary smoked fish, and a bustling, old-school vibe. A must-try for authentic deli.
Will Hartman reviews Barney Greengrass, a New York institution on the Upper West Side famed for its "Sturgeon King" title and classic Jewish appetizing fare. Experience the bustling atmosphere and delicious smoked fish.
A true New York institution since 1908, this Upper West Side classic, known as the "Sturgeon King," offers a lively, no-frills dining experience. It's celebrated for its exceptional smoked fish, including sturgeon and whitefish, served on platters or bagels, alongside other Jewish deli staples like latkes and knishes.
Specializing in Jewish appetizing fare, this spot is most renowned for its exquisite smoked fish, particularly sturgeon, whitefish salad, and nova. Patrons frequently recommend the sturgeon, latkes, and bagels with lox. While generally highly praised, some diners find the bagels to be average, and a few consider the prices high for certain items.
"The smoked fish, particularly the sturgeon, whitefish salad, and nova, are highly praised. Customers also frequently recommend the latkes and the sturgeon scrambled with eggs and onions."
Customers generally have a very positive sentiment towards the restaurant, often praising its high-quality smoked fish and classic Jewish deli atmosphere, though some note it can be pricey.
Important Note
Some diners find the prices to be high, and there's a mixed opinion on the quality of the bagels themselves, with some suggesting they are merely a vehicle for the superior fish.
"The commenter clarified that the last time they visited Barney's over a year ago, latkes were definitely not on the menu."
Neutral"In response to a comment about latkes being off-menu, this commenter stated that they believed latkes were on the menu."
Neutral"A commenter stated that Barney's is best for the fish and off-menu latkes, and that while the bagels aren't great, the other items make it worthwhile."
Negative"A commenter listed Apollo, Broad Nosh, and Leon's as suggested bagel places, implying they are from transplants."
Neutral"This commenter recommends Barney Greengrass for its fish and off-menu latkes, but not for its bagels, suggesting to take the fish home and pair it with better bagels."
Negative"In response to a request for recommendations, the commenter suggested Apollo for bagels, Broad and Nosh for consistent bagel sandwiches, and Leon's as impressive."
Neutral"A commenter asked for recommendations for better bagel places."
Neutral"This commenter believes Barney Greengrass is not good and is only visited for its history, suggesting better bagel places exist."
Negative"A commenter mentioned the current price of smoked fish is over $22 per pound and that they have resorted to smoking their own or making gravlax."
Neutral"A commenter explained that smoked fish, like salmon lox, is generally expensive."
Neutral"A commenter questioned the price of the salmon lox, noting it was listed as $35 CAD in the post."
Neutral"The author described the salmon lox as the best thing they ate all week, despite its high price."
Positive"Barney Greengrass is recommended for brunch on the Upper West Side."
Positive"Barney Greengrass was suggested as a brunch option, suitable for travelers seeking a Jewish brunch experience."
Positive"Barney Greengrass is a great spot, though expect a wait on weekends. Their latkes are a notable off-menu item."
Positive"The fish platters at Barney Greengrass can be pricey, but other items are average for NYC with good portions. It offers a fun, old-school NYC atmosphere."
Positive"Barney Greengrass is recommended as a brunch spot, noting its classic New York vibes and good portion sizes for egg dishes."
Positive"Barney Greengrass is highlighted as a New York classic, suggested for brunch."
Positive"The commenter mentions getting a bagel and other items from Barney Greengrass and expresses satisfaction."
Positive"This comment states that Barney Greengrass on the west side is their favorite."
Positive