Barney Greengrass has been around for over 100 years, now run by family member Barry, a true boss that knows his business. Twenty years ago, the late Anthony Bourdain let the rest of the world in on the secret of this Upper West Side gem on his show. For native New Yorkers, Barney Greengrass has been a mainstay.
The restaurant evokes quite a bit of nostalgia with booths and decor that feels like it belongs in the 1950s. The reason to come though is the food.
The lox, the baked salmon salad, and the assorted other smoked fish and appetizing delicacies that are offered are simply outstanding. Even products that aren’t made in house are chosen carefully. Ironically, the bagels are probably the weakest link in the restaurant, but have the onion rolls instead.
For those that like latkes, theirs are delicious and you might want to try the borsch. The restaurant gets very full on weekends and only takes cash. If you become a good enough customer, you might get added to the house account, where a monthly charge gets sent out.
Regardless, go during the week or on the weekend, bring some cash and have some unbelievable lox, cream cheese and other staples of New York cuisine.
