The "Sturgeon King" of NYC: an iconic Jewish deli w/ legendary smoked fish & old-school charm.
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 long-standing Jewish deli on the Upper West Side, Barney Greengrass has earned its title as "The Sturgeon King." This classic establishment, operating since 1908, offers a bustling, authentic New York experience with lively servers and a unique atmosphere. While the smoked fish, especially sturgeon, whitefish salad, and nova, are the main draw, the menu also features other comforting Jewish deli staples.
Renowned for its smoked fish, particularly sturgeon, whitefish salad, and nova, Barney Greengrass offers a classic Jewish deli experience. Dishes like sturgeon scrambled with eggs and onions, latkes, knishes, and babka are also highly recommended. While the quality is praised, some find the prices steep, and the bagels themselves receive mixed reviews, with many suggesting pairing the fish with them rather than ordering them as a standalone item.
"Highly recommended are the smoked fish platters, particularly the sturgeon, whitefish salad, and nova. The latkes are also a standout, often considered an off-menu gem. For a hearty meal, consider the sturgeon scrambled with eggs and onions."
Customers generally have a very positive view of Barney Greengrass, praising its authentic atmosphere and high-quality smoked fish, though some note the prices can be high and service can be brisk.
Important Note
Some diners find the prices to be high, and the service can be brisk due to the restaurant's popularity and atmosphere.
"The Sturgeon King, also known as Barney Greengrass, is described as amazing, authentic, and excellent, though pricey and a 'low rent experience'."
Positive"The Sturgeon King, also known as Barney Greengrass, is described as amazing, authentic, and excellent, though pricey and a 'low rent experience'."
Positive"Barney Greengrass was mentioned as a place that provides an experience, likely due to its reputation or atmosphere."
Neutral"This commenter described Barney Greengrass as an old-school Jewish deli and a part of NY history, loving the environment despite the high prices. They emphasized paying for food quality and the unique atmosphere."
Positive"Barney Greengrass on the UWS is recommended for having the best lox bagel."
Positive"Barney Greengrass is recommended."
Positive"Barney Greengrass is mentioned as a place for knishes."
Positive"Barney Greengrass is listed as one of several establishments that offer a New York dining experience."
Positive"Barney Greengrass is mentioned alongside Katz's as an establishment offering a New York experience."
Neutral"Barney Greengrass is listed as one of several recommended establishments for an authentic New York experience."
Neutral"The author suggests Barney Greengrass for bagels and lox."
Positive"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
