In case you need a refresh, the Bib Gourmand distinction is awarded to restaurants that offer multi-course meals at reasonable prices. And while all are unique and the “price” varies from country to country, the standard for quality remains the same.
That’s why every Friday, we’re going to be highlighting our Bib of the Week; we're highlighting where to go, what dish to order, the best time to stop by, and everything in between. So whether it’s locally sourced dishes infused with an old-world charm or authentic regional Italian dishes in San Diego, our selection of Bib Gourmand spots will leave both you and your wallet satisfied.
From the bright neon signs to the light-box wall, Russ & Daughters Cafe is a celebration of the rich history behind the original Russ & Daughter shop. “For over a century, our customers had patiently waited in line at the counter,” says Niki Russ Federman, the fourth generation owner of Russ & Daughters. “It was time to give everyone a place to sit down for a full-service Jewish comfort food experience.”
Taking inspiration from the original Russ & Daughters’ offerings, the cafe features dishes like cold-smoked Scottish salmon, Caramelized chocolate babka French toast, and the bagel + lox (one of New York’s most iconic dishes).
Don’t take our word for it though, check out what our Inspector had to say here, and below, we chat with the team on what you need to know before you visit.
What is the dish to order at Russ & Daughters Cafe?
Think of Appetizing as Jewish smorgasbord instead of a coursed-out meal. Any of the large appetizing platters (The Hattie, Ida or Anne—named after the three Russ daughters), soup like matzo ball or mushroom barley, herring, and of course babka french toast. Caviar can either be a small nosh or a full service experience.
Our platters serve 3-4 people and include a variety of smoked fish with cream cheeses, onions, tomato, capers, pickles, and a bagels & bread basket. Our servers lower the giant board into the center of the table, as if the mothership of the meal has landed. It’s a tactile, shareable way to enjoy the smoked fish we’re known for.
What price range can customers expect at Russ & Daughters?
Unless you’re splurging on caviar, a typical meal costs around $30 per person.
When is the best time to stop by?
Anytime during the day! It’s always busier on weekends, and we don’t take reservations, but we think our Appetizing is worth the wait.
How would you describe your approach to food and cooking at the Cafe?
We are torchbearers of a type of Jewish cuisine called Appetizing. To elaborate on a food tradition can be a touchy subject. Plenty of people have an idea of what matzo ball soup should taste like—we want to add special touches to what tastes familiar, but not reinvent an already-delicious thing.
For example, we present our smoked fish on a wooden board to highlight the craft of our hand slicing; we griddle babka into a luscious French toast, and spoon caviar over soft scrambled eggs. It’s nostalgic comfort with a hint of luxury.
How did you conceive of a menu that is delicious, yet good value?
Look to the ancestors! We serve a lot of the original foods our great-grandparents ate and that we have been making and selling at our shop for over 100 years, like herring and chopped liver. These foods were never considered high-class, but our preparation brings out their delicacy.
We also think there’s more to value than price. Russ & Daughters has been around since 1914 and is family-owned. Less than 1% of family-owned businesses make it to the fourth generation. We think our expertise and dedication presents itself in the food.
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