Salmon Bagel at Russ & Daughters and Amazing Tacos at Los Tacos No. 1 in NYC

Salmon Bagel at Russ & Daughters and Amazing Tacos at Los Tacos No. 1 in NYC is a easy American recipe that serves 1. 460 calories per serving. Recipe by Mark Wiens on YouTube.

Prep: 8 min | Cook: 2 min | Total: 15 min

Cost: $15.23 total, $15.23 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 piece Everything Bagel (handmade, boiled then baked, sesame and poppy seed topping)
  • 2 tablespoons Caviar Cream Cheese (softened, spreadable; contains caviar bits for briny flavor)
  • 2 ounces Scottish Smoked Salmon (thinly sliced, silky and smoky)
  • 2 slices Tomato (ripe, medium-sized, thinly sliced)
  • 3 thin slices Red Onion (peeled and sliced very thin)

Instructions

  1. Toast the bagel (optional)

    Slice the everything bagel in half horizontally. Lightly toast the cut sides in a toaster or under a broiler for about 2 minutes until the surface is crisp but not burnt.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: 350°F

  2. Spread caviar cream cheese

    Using a butter knife, spread an even layer of caviar cream cheese on both the top and bottom halves of the toasted bagel. Aim for about 1 tablespoon per side.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Layer the smoked salmon

    Arrange the thin slices of Scottish smoked salmon over the cream cheese on the bottom half, covering the surface evenly.

    Time: PT1M

  4. Add tomato and onion

    Place the tomato slices on top of the salmon, then add the thin red onion rings. Distribute evenly so each bite gets a bit of both.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Close and serve

    Place the top half of the bagel onto the assembled bottom half, press gently, and serve immediately.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
460
Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
55g
Fat
18g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains gluten, Pescatarian

Allergens: Fish, Dairy, Gluten

Last updated: April 11, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Salmon Bagel at Russ & Daughters and Amazing Tacos at Los Tacos No. 1 in NYC

Recipe by Mark Wiens

A classic New York City deli breakfast: a toasted everything bagel loaded with luxurious caviar-infused cream cheese, silky Scottish smoked salmon, fresh tomato slices, and crisp red onion. Inspired by Mark Wiens' visit to Russ & Daughters.

EasyAmericanServes 1

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
8m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
18m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$15.23
Total cost
$15.23
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Spreading the cream cheese evenly on both sides
  • Layering the smoked salmon without gaps
  • Patting tomato slices to avoid soggy bagel

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sharp knife carefully when slicing the bagel and onion.
  • Ensure smoked salmon is kept refrigerated until use to avoid foodborne illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of the Everything Bagel with Smoked Salmon in New York City Jewish deli cuisine?

A

The bagel with smoked salmon, often called a "lox and bagel," originated in early 20th‑century Eastern European Jewish neighborhoods of New York. It became a staple of delis like Russ & Daughters, symbolizing the blend of traditional Jewish foods with American breakfast culture.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of smoked salmon bagels in the United States?

A

In New York, the classic uses thinly sliced Scottish or Nova smoked salmon with cream cheese, capers, and red onion. In the Pacific Northwest, locally smoked salmon and whole‑grain bagels are common, while in the South you might find a sweeter, honey‑glazed bagel version.

cultural
Q

How is an authentic bagel with caviar cream cheese traditionally served in New York Jewish delis?

A

It is typically served on a wooden board or plate, sliced in half, with the caviar‑infused cream cheese spread on both sides, layered with smoked salmon, thin tomato and red onion slices, and sometimes a squeeze of lemon. It is eaten with a fork or by hand.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is the smoked salmon bagel traditionally associated with in New York Jewish culture?

A

It is a popular brunch item for weekend family gatherings, holiday breakfasts such as Passover or Rosh Hashanah brunches, and is often enjoyed during celebratory events like bar mitzvahs or community fundraisers.

cultural
Q

What makes the Everything Bagel with Scottish Smoked Salmon special in American Jewish deli cuisine?

A

The combination of a chewy, boiled‑then‑baked bagel topped with sesame and poppy seeds, luxurious caviar‑studded cream cheese, and the buttery texture of Scottish smoked salmon creates a balance of salty, creamy, and slightly sweet flavors that is uniquely New York.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the Everything Bagel with Scottish Smoked Salmon at home?

A

Common errors include using a stale bagel, over‑toasting which makes it too hard, not patting the tomato dry which leads to sogginess, and using cream cheese straight from the fridge which can tear the bagel.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use caviar cream cheese instead of plain cream cheese?

A

Caviar cream cheese adds a subtle briny pop that complements the smoky salmon and elevates the overall flavor profile, staying true to the upscale version served at Russ & Daughters.

technical
Q

Can I make the Everything Bagel with Scottish Smoked Salmon ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can pre‑slice the tomato and onion and keep the smoked salmon refrigerated. Assemble the bagel no more than an hour before serving; otherwise, store the components separately and combine just before eating.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when assembling the bagel?

A

The bagel should be lightly crisp on the cut sides, the cream cheese smooth and evenly spread, the salmon glossy and thin, and the tomato and onion slices bright and thin. Each bite should deliver a creamy, smoky, and slightly juicy mouthfeel.

technical
Q

How do I know when the bagel is done toasting for this recipe?

A

The cut surfaces should be golden‑brown and emit a faint toasted aroma. Press lightly; the bagel should give a slight snap but remain soft inside.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Mark Wiens specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Mark Wiens focuses on travel and food vlogs, showcasing authentic local dishes from around the world, with enthusiastic commentary on flavors, culture, and culinary experiences.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Mark Wiens' approach to New York City food differ from other food channels?

A

Mark Wiens combines on‑the‑spot tasting with detailed cultural context, often visiting iconic eateries like Russ & Daughters and describing the history and heritage of each dish, whereas many channels focus mainly on cooking tutorials or restaurant reviews without the travel narrative.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Special Ramadan Menu – Vegetable and Salmon Filo Rolls, Mini Chicken Tacos, Coconut Pumpkin Soup, Mango-Banana Mousse
5

Special Ramadan Menu – Vegetable and Salmon Filo Rolls, Mini Chicken Tacos, Coconut Pumpkin Soup, Mango-Banana Mousse

A complete Ramadan menu featuring an exotic mango‑banana mousse, filo pastry rolls filled with vegetables and salmon, spicy mini chicken tacos, and a creamy pumpkin soup with coconut milk and shrimp. Simple, quick, and tasty recipes to delight the whole family.

3 hrs 2 minServes 4$32
Fusion
Meal Prep Master: Salmon, Chipotle Beef Tacos, Rice & Peas, and Bean Salad
7

Meal Prep Master: Salmon, Chipotle Beef Tacos, Rice & Peas, and Bean Salad

A complete, high‑protein meal‑prep guide that yields four weeks‑worth of balanced meals: citrus‑bright bean salad, fluffy rice‑and‑peas, oven‑baked salmon, smoky chipotle ground‑beef tacos, and a creamy chipotle sour‑cream sauce. All components are portioned for easy reheating and stay fresh all week.

1 hr 40 minServes 4$26
American
You guys NEED this Smoked Salmon Bagel Sandwich from Best Bagel & Coffee in NYC! 🥯🔥
2

You guys NEED this Smoked Salmon Bagel Sandwich from Best Bagel & Coffee in NYC! 🥯🔥

A classic New York‑style everything bagel topped with rich Sabie cream cheese, crisp cucumber, sharp red onion, and generous layers of smoked salmon. This recipe walks you through making the bagels from scratch—including boiling and baking—then assembling the ultimate breakfast or brunch treat.

3 hrs 5 minServes 4$10
American
Todos Los Tacos: The Chimichanga
2

Todos Los Tacos: The Chimichanga

A deep‑fried burrito packed with seasoned shredded chicken, refried beans, melty cheese, and fresh toppings. Inspired by the iconic Arizona street‑food staple, this recipe walks you through warming the tortilla, assembling the filling, and frying to a golden crisp.

1 hrServes 4$14
Mexican (Arizona)
This might be the best thing I've made all year. Birria tacos
32

This might be the best thing I've made all year. Birria tacos

A hearty, melt‑in‑your‑mouth taco made with slow‑boiled brisket, a smoky guajillo‑morita chili sauce, and shredded mozzarella. Inspired by a recipe from the YouTube channel POV Husband, this version skips searing and relies on a four‑hour boil for ultra‑tender meat, then finishes with a quick sauté of the sauce and a drizzle of skimmed cooking oil for extra flavor.

5 hrs 5 minServes 4$38
Mexican
Crispy Beef Tacos For Weight Loss
4

Crispy Beef Tacos For Weight Loss

A healthy, high‑protein take on classic beef tacos. Lean ground beef is seasoned with a simple taco spice blend, bound with a light cornstarch slurry, and baked on high‑fiber tortillas until crisp. Served with a tangy low‑fat Greek‑yogurt taco dipping sauce, this dish is perfect for weight‑loss meal plans.

40 minServes 4$18
Mexican