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Russ & Daughters Cafe
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Russ & Daughters Cafe
8.8
This Orchard Street offshoot of the century-old appetizing shop turns smoked fish, bagels, and latkes into a sit-down breakfast ritual. It’s where locals and visitors lean into lox platters, egg dishes, and pastries in a bright, retro-inspired dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Lox Bagel, Smoked Fish Platter, Potato Latkes
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: A sit-down extension of a 1914 appetizing icon built around smoked fish breakfasts.
Who should go: Bagel-and-lox lovers and out-of-towners chasing a classic.
When to visit: Early morning or late breakfast to avoid peak brunch crush.
What to order: Classic lox bagel, smoked fish platter, potato latkes.
Insider tip: If the cafe wait is long, shop the deli on East Houston first and time your table for a later breakfast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on Orchard Street; meters are available but often full. Nearest paid garages are within a 5–7 minute walk on Ludlow and Essex.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; most guests wear everyday attire, though the room’s retro aesthetic leans toward neat-casual rather than ultra-casual.
Noise level: Moderate – the space fills with brunch chatter, but you can still hold a normal conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: Not applicable, as the cafe centers on breakfast and brunch; peak weekend brunch waits can reach 45–75 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Usually a short wait or immediate seating outside of peak brunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several vegetarian-friendly plates including egg dishes, potato latkes, and veggie-forward bagel combinations.
Vegan options: Limited – most dishes involve smoked fish or dairy, but avocado bagels and select sides can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Partial – the cafe offers gluten-free bread and some GF-friendly platters, though cross-contact is possible due to bakery items.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a daytime date that feels relaxed and iconic; the bright dining room and classic New York fare make it charming if you’re aiming for casual intimacy rather than a long, lingering meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a wait during weekend brunch. Walk-ins are common; arriving early (before 10am) or slightly later in the morning shortens the queue significantly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – the café’s spacious booths and familiar foods like bagels, eggs, and latkes work well for families. Best for ages 4+ given the tight weekend crowds.
Best For
Better for: Iconic smoked fish platters, classic New York appetizing traditions, and a polished sit-down experience that blends nostalgia with diner comfort.
Skip if: You want a fast, low-cost breakfast; you prefer savory hot entrées over smoked fish; or you dislike waiting for brunch crowds.
Russ & Daughters Cafe
8.6
Russ & Daughters Cafe turns a century-old appetizing institution into a sit-down restaurant for smoked fish platters, latkes, and Jewish comfort food. The space layers neon, light boxes, and counter seating over a menu that feels familiar but carefully executed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smoked fish board with bagels and fixings, Potato latkes with salmon roe or smoked salmon, Babka French toast
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: A Bib Gourmand spin-off of a legendary appetizing shop, offering full-service Jewish comfort food built around smoked fish.
Who should go: Brunch and smoked-fish lovers willing to queue for a classic.
When to visit: Early mornings or off-peak weekdays to avoid the heaviest lines.
What to order: Share a smoked fish platter, add latkes and save room for babka French toast.
Insider tip: If the wait for a table is long, use the time to browse the original counter nearby and plan what to bring home.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on Orchard and Stanton can be scarce during brunch hours. Nearest paid garages are a 5–7 minute walk.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; weekend brunch crowds lean neat but relaxed. No need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate during peak brunch — lively but still fine for conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: They close before dinner service; late-afternoon visits still see 20–35 minute waits.
Weekday lunch: Often a short 5–15 minute wait, occasionally walk-in immediate seating on slower days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options — smoked fish is the focus, but there are several vegetarian plates like latkes, salads, and egg dishes.
Vegan options: Limited — a few sides and salads can be adapted, but the core menu is not vegan-focused.
Gluten-free options: Good selection — smoked fish platters work well without bread; gluten-free crackers available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for daytime dates — the room has vintage charm and the food is conversation-friendly, but peak hours can feel cramped and busy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they accept walk-ins, but expect a wait on weekends. Arriving right at opening or during late-morning shoulder times helps.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family-friendly menus, high chairs available, and plenty of approachable dishes. Best with kids 4+ due to tighter table spacing.
Best For
Better for: Classic Jewish brunch, premium smoked fish, and a deeper sense of NYC history than most brunch competitors.
Skip if: You want a quiet, spacious brunch environment or need extensive vegan options — nearby cafés may suit better.