My wife first introduced me to the “bagelburger” back in 1975. I had just met her during our last semester at university and she took me to a little place on Park Avenue (no resemblance to the one in New York) called Dusty’s, where students and other impoverished beings could get a satisfying meal for under $3. Dusty’s and its kin are all imitators of that Montreal landmark, Beauty’s, which, since 1942, has been serving up a unique combination of Jewish deli plus.
I immediately loved the bagelburger. Although I had eaten smoked salmon before, it had always been on its own or as canapés at parties. The combination of bagel, cream cheese, smoked salmon, tomatoes, and onions was breathtaking. It has remained a staple in our home ever since; although we prefer it open-faced (it just seems more satisfying that way).
This morning’s breakfast:
- Fresh bagel from St. Viateur
- Liberty cream cheese (the only one with no additives)
- My homemade gravlax using New Victoria’s very fatty salmon
- Capers
- Tomato
- Red onions
- A large cup of Greek coffee
I had hoped to show a photo of the finished product….but I ate the evidence before I could take the photo!
Do you really want me to die?! When I worked at the Ritz, I had this almost every morning for breakfast. One of my absolute favorites!! No good bagels in France, so I use English muffins instead. Not as filling but pretty damned good!
I like it on English Muffins too, also on a good baguette.
Izzie, our then landlord was also the owner of the deli that was situated at the corner of St Viateur and L’Esplanade. I remember him introducing me to smoked salmon and onions back in the 1960′s. It’s been a favourite of mine ever since.
I think it ranks among the top 10 food combinations of all time. If there were ever a fitting word it would be “iconic”.
I’m almost ready to drive up for this ! Ah , it’s Canada in winter . Calm down , Besides we have better bagels in NYC!!!
Who makes the better homemade gravlax ?? I am wiling to test , repeatedly
!
One point , what does the bagelburger have to do with this meal ?
Off your meds again I see…New York bagels indeed!
How would you know ? Can you remember when you were here last ! Ask Mr.Italo ,in whom we trust , what the learned Canadian said at Peter Luger’s ! NY City rules pal !