Murray's Bagels in the West Village has been serving hand-rolled bagels since 1996. I decided to try something different this time – their sturgeon bagel.

Going Against the Grain

Everyone orders lox. I wanted to see how Murray's handled sturgeon, the "king of smoked fish." Sturgeon is smokier, meatier, and more intensely flavored than its salmon cousin.

The Bagel

I went with pumpernickel – its earthy, slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with smoked fish. The bagel was good – proper chew, nice crust – though perhaps not quite as dense as the best in the city.

The Fish

The sturgeon was decent but not exceptional. A bit on the dry side compared to the best I've had, though the smoky flavor was present. The cream cheese was standard – nothing special, nothing offensive.

Atmosphere

Murray's has that classic New York bagel shop feel. Formica counters, a display case full of fish and spreads, and a line that moves efficiently. It's no-frills in the best way.

The Verdict

Murray's is a solid neighborhood spot. If you're in the West Village and want a good bagel, you won't be disappointed. But if you're making a special trip, there are better options elsewhere.

Best for: Local West Village residents looking for their bagel fix.