If you like your restaurants with a schmear of character and history, look no further than the 100-year-old Barney Greengrass. Known affectionately as “The Sturgeon King,” this appetizing Jewish deli (which moved from its original Harlem location to its current spot in 1929) takes the nickname seriously: Sturgeon and velvety lox top bagels and bialys, and weave through fluffy scrambled eggs with onions for one of the most popular breakfasts on the Upper West Side. Other traditional fare such as herring, sable and whitefish salad have also understandably made this no-frills Formica haven with its surly counter staff a go-to eatery for generations of New Yorkers. Expect a long wait, especially on weekends, when you might bump elbows with the likes of Jerry Seinfeld.

Barney Greengrass Information:

• Deli menu. Breakfast, lunch. Closed Monday.