It’s hard to imagine a food more associated with New York than bagels. However, with a deli on every corner, it’s hard to know where to find the best of the best. You know, that perfect carb indulgence: fluffy on the inside, crisp on the outside. So without further ado, here’s our guide to our top-five bagel shops in Manhattan (and one across the bridge that is well worth the trip).

Russ & Daughters: (179 East Houston Street)

Founded in 1914 by Joel Russ and still family owned and operated today, Russ and Daughters is a fixture on the Lower East Side. When you walk into the shop, your sights and senses will be overwhelmed (in the best possible way) with the Jewish tradition of “appetizing.” Particularly famous for their lox, we recommend the Russ and Daughters classic bagel with lox. Lox-lovers rejoice; you’re in the right place. Price varies on choice of smoked salmon (a classic with Nova smoked salmon is $11.25 ).

Murray’s Bagel: (500 Avenue of the Americas & 242 8th Ave)

The commonplace line at Murray’s Bagels is an immediate signal that you’re in the right place. These bagels are so fresh and perfected that you’re not even allowed to toast them. Whether your choice is simple (Plain bagel with cream cheese) or specialty (Bungalow Colony with Turkey featured – $8.25), you won’t regret this meal.

Vic’s Bagel Bar: 544 3rd Avenue

Opened a few years ago, Vic’s Bagel bar has shaken up the bagel scene by allowing you to customize your own cream cheese. You want berries in your cream cheese? Or edamame, smoked salmon, and scallions? No problem. The Bagel Bar team will whip your chosen ingredients into a waiting bowl of cream cheese, then top your bagel with it. Our favorite: A traditionalist ($9.50).

Photo Credit: Vic’s Bagel Bar

Bagel Bob’s (51 University place & 1638 York Avenue)

Bagel Bob’s, a staple in Washington Square Park, serves up delicious homemade bagels, fresh out of the oven. With a wide range of spreads, this is the place to go for your no frills, “deli” style bagel. Our morning favorite? An everything bagel with light cream cheese with tomato (featured, $2.40).

Ess-A-Bagel (359 1st Avenue & 831 3rd Avenue )

Established in 1976, Ess-A-Bagel is known for their home made bagels and Austrian baking. There is a large range of assorted spreads, as well as no shortage of traditional lox or smoked fish. Ess-A-Bagel is a treat for the taste buds and for the wallet. (one bagel $1, toppings can range from $2.50 to $14.50).

Bagel Hole (400 7th avenue in Park Slope, Brooklyn)

When popping into this hole in the wall, you’ll be faced with the choice to load up your bagel with deli-deliciousness or simply eat your bagel plain (no toasting allowed here!). Bagel Hole bagels are so delectable, that we suggest you forgo the toppings and leave with a pastry style bagel in hand. ($ .90 per bagel)

Photo credit: http://heresparkslope.squarespace.com