Russ & Daughters Cafe

- 127 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

For over a century, the name Russ & Daughters has been synonymous with a specific, beloved kind of New York City food. Russ & Daughters Cafe, located on the Lower East Side, is the perfect culmination of that legacy. While the original shop on Houston Street is a destination for takeout "appetizing," the cafe on Orchard Street offers a full-service dining experience that celebrates the same incredible Jewish comfort food. This is a place where history and flavor come together, offering a menu filled with fresh, high-quality smoked fish, hand-rolled bagels, and traditional delicacies that have been perfected over four generations.

As a proud women-owned business, Russ & Daughters Cafe carries on a bold family tradition. The original business was one of the first in the United States to have "& Daughters" in its name, a testament to the founder's vision and the hard work of his three daughters. Today, that heritage is felt in the cozy, historic, and trendy atmosphere of the cafe. It’s a place that attracts a diverse crowd—from families and college students to tourists and locals—all united by their love for classic, expertly prepared food.

Whether you’re in search of the perfect bagel and lox, a hearty plate of latkes, or a taste of authentic Jewish desserts, Russ & Daughters Cafe is the answer. It’s a culinary landmark that has stood the test of time, and its commitment to quality and community shines through in every detail. This article will provide an in-depth look at what makes this Lower East Side institution so special, from its delicious offerings to its welcoming atmosphere.

Russ & Daughters Cafe is conveniently located at 127 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002. Situated in the vibrant and historically rich Lower East Side, the cafe is easily accessible for both New Yorkers and visitors. The neighborhood is a fantastic destination for exploring, with its mix of historic tenement buildings, trendy boutiques, and lively bars.

The cafe is a short walk from the Delancey Street-Essex Street subway station, which serves the F, J, M, and Z lines, making it easily reachable from various parts of Manhattan and beyond. For those arriving by car, there is paid street parking available in the vicinity, though it can be competitive, especially during peak hours. The cafe and its amenities are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests.

The location on Orchard Street puts the cafe in a prime spot to serve as a destination for breakfast, brunch, or a leisurely lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is casual and cozy, making it the perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle while remaining deeply connected to its historic roots.

Russ & Daughters Cafe offers a variety of services to cater to different needs and dining preferences.

• Dine-in and Table Service: Guests can enjoy a full-service dining experience with seating available for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. The bar area is also a great place to enjoy a great cocktail or glass of wine.
• Takeout: For those on a tighter schedule, the cafe offers convenient takeout, allowing you to enjoy your favorite bagels and smoked fish on the go.
• Onsite services: The cafe's full-service bar provides a range of offerings, including great cocktails, a fine selection of wine and beer, and classic beverages.
• Catering: While not a specific service listed for the cafe, the larger Russ & Daughters brand is famous for catering, providing beautiful platters of smoked fish, bagels, and other delicacies for events and gatherings.

Russ & Daughters Cafe is celebrated for several key features and highlights that make it a standout in New York City's culinary landscape.

• Exceptional Smoked Fish: The highlight of the menu is undoubtedly the smoked fish. From the mild Gaspe Nova to the fatty and rich Scottish smoked salmon, every option is sliced by hand by a master slicer. Customer reviews praise the freshness of the salmon roe and the quality of the whitefish.
• The "Classic" Bagel & Lox: The signature dish is a testament to quality ingredients. It features a fresh, hand-rolled bagel, a generous schmear of all-natural, double-whipped cream cheese, and a pile of thinly sliced lox, often served with traditional accoutrements like tomato, onion, and capers.
• Great Cocktails and Drinks: The cafe's bar is known for its excellent selection of beverages, including well-made cocktails, hard liquor, and a great tea selection. Their homemade sodas, like the blueberry or Concord grape soda, are also a must-try.
• Cozy, Historic Atmosphere: The cafe embodies a unique blend of old-world charm and modern trendiness. It’s a place that feels both comfortable and vibrant, paying homage to its past with historic decor while catering to a modern crowd.
• Incredibly Friendly and Patient Staff: Customer reviews frequently highlight the staff's kindness and great smiles. They are known for being patient and helpful, especially when explaining the menu to new customers.
• Serves Local Specialty: Russ & Daughters is considered a purveyor of "appetizing," a Jewish food tradition that focuses on smoked and cured fish, spreads, and salads that are eaten with bagels. The cafe serves this local specialty at its highest form.
• Accommodating for All: The cafe is known for being family-friendly, with high chairs available. It is also an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, creating an inclusive environment for everyone.

Address: 127 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, USA

Phone: (212) 475-4881

Choosing Russ & Daughters Cafe is an experience that goes beyond just a meal. It is an opportunity to partake in a piece of New York City history. The quality of the food is the most compelling reason to visit. The bagels are perfectly chewy, the smoked fish is fresh and flavorful, and every dish, from the salmon roe to the classic whitefish salad, is prepared with a level of care that reflects a century of tradition. The "Lox, Eggs & Onions" and the "Super Heebster" sandwiches are popular choices that offer a taste of this heritage.

The cafe’s atmosphere adds to its appeal. It's a place where you can comfortably enjoy a solo meal or a gathering with family and friends. The staff's friendly disposition makes a significant difference, turning a simple visit into a genuinely pleasant experience. The cafe’s commitment to healthy and vegan options, alongside its classic comfort food, also ensures that there is something for everyone.

While there is usually a wait, especially on weekends, the fast service ensures the line moves quickly, and the delicious food and historic ambiance are well worth the time. For a taste of New York's culinary soul, a visit to Russ & Daughters Cafe is an essential stop. It is a place that truly embodies the flavors, history, and community spirit of the Lower East Side.

Russ & Daughters Cafe

127 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, USA