Where?

This question will inspire a lot of impassioned responses, but I'm partial to H&H Bagels on the Upper West Side (80th & Bway). They are so hot and fresh that you don't need to even toast them.

My second runner up is Murray's Bagels in the W. Village. (6th Ave and W. 13th St.).

I also like ess-a-bagels, which can be found in various neighborhods around the city.

Ess-A-Bagels are my favorite. They are yeasty as compared to H & H which are sweeter since they add more sugar. Not all H & H are related.

The best bialys are Kossar's on Grand Streer.

I followed Aduchamp1's bagel advice to Ess-A-Bagels in November, and I wasn't disappointed. They were fantastic, and one of the culinary highlights of my NYC trip.

Pick-a-Bagel is also good - they have a few locations throughout the city, but a handy one on 57th right by the subway stop if things haven't changed.

Avoid the pick-a-bagel on Vesey Street...it's gross!

There are lots of excellent bagels in NYC - not hard to find a good one. To me the "BEST" bagels are

1. close by - not requiring a trek to find.
2. fresh, preferably warm, right from the oven.