I've always heard that NYC has great bagels so we've resolved to hit a bagel place on our next trip. Any recommendations in the midtown area? Thx!

When someone says "the midtown area" it's a clear indication you have no idea how much territory that covers. 34-59 st. from river to river. There are probably 300 places that sell or serve bagels in that area. Ironically, many of the best bagel places are not in midtown at all. But Ess-A-Bagel on 3rd ave. & 51-52 st. is one of the "iconic" famous bagel places. Here's a discussion http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/379737

Sorry, you're right--I should have been more specific. We're staying near 35th and 5th Ave, so someplace that's good but within a 5 block radius or so (?) would be great. Thanks so much!

None of the iconic bagel places fit your territory limitations. The closest would be mclaurie's suggestion of Ess-a-Bagel on 3rd Ave. between 51st and 52nd St. Chances are you'll find a bagel closer by, but no vouching for quality. One likely place to try would be the Second Avenue Deli which is near 33rd St. and 3rd Ave. -- one might think you'll get a decent bagel there, though I've only had lunch there so I can't comment one way or the other about their breakfasts.

On the other hand, if you like Korean food, you're in luck. On 32nd St. between 5th and 6th Aves. you'll find several such restaurants to choose from. Have had the eponymous dumplings at Mandoo Bar and enjoyed them very much.

Probably should mention the other iconic Manhattan bagel spots in case you want to hunt one down:

--Ess-a-Bagel (near 3rd Ave. and 51st St., also near 1st Ave. and 21st St.)
--Murray's Bagels (near 6th Ave. and 12th St.)
--H&H Bagels (take out only, no seating or toppings sold, near Broadway and 80th St., also near 12th Ave. and 46th St.)
--Absolute Bagels (Broadway near 107th St.)

Lenny's has lots of locations in Manhattan and sells H&H bagels.

http://www.lennysnyc.com/main.asp?page=1041

Personally, I think Murray's is the best. So if you decide to visit the Chelsea area that would be my suggestion.

Remember for a bagel to made correctly it must be boiled first. The bagels at H & H are sweet, while bagels at Ess-A are more yeasty.

I will be looking for a bialy, for a few nights I'll be near 44th and Lexington. Also around the Nu Hotel in Brooklyn for one night.

Closest and best?

Daniels' on 3rd ave between 37th and 38th.

Kossar's Bialys is in the Lower East Side neighborhood and makes excellent bialys. Haven't had them elsewhere, so I can't suggest anyplace else.

Kossar's is the only retail bialy bakery I know. While you are there get what they call a wheel or pletzel.