We all have our favorite places, but I would add my vote for Ess-a-bagel. The 21st and 1st Ave was around the corner from my fist apartment in the city and I sure miss those bagels.

H&H is very good, but Ess-a-bagel I think is better. Also when you buy a smear, it's almost too much and you can't finish it all at once.

Have a great time while you are here.

I really love the bagels, bialys & breadsticks at "Pick a Bagel", various locations around the city. We happened to be around 46th & 12th a couple of weeks ago, heading back to NY Waterway ferry, and stopped at H&H, paid almost $6 for 6 bagels, and were VERY disappointed.

Not a fan of H&H... i don't see what makes their bagels special.

On the other hand, another vote for Ess-a-Bagel on 3rd ave and 51st St. Best i've ever had.

Now if you want to talk bialys... Kossar's on Grand St in the lower east side. While you're down there, stop at Katz's deli, Gus or "The Pickle Guys" for pickles, and Economy Candy for the best candy store in NY.

You know with all the bagel suggestions above, you're going to have to try them all and report back to us with which is YOUR favorite.

Another favorite:
Chelsea Market on 10th Avenue between15 and 16 Street is Bagelery (SP) right next to Ruthy's Cheesecake and Rugelach.

All different kinds of bagels and all kinds of cream cheese. My favorite is the olive cream cheese

Jumbo Bagel on 2nd Avenue between 56th & 57th Street. Open 24/7. Best when hot out of the oven.