Blue Ribbon Smoked Salmon Toast

The Salmon Toast at Blue Ribbon Bakery Market on Bedford St., NYC. On this particular day, they were out of capers, but it was worth having anyway.

Salmon lovers, prepare to be KNOCKED OUT. While it seems that every cafe or bakery has a salmon sandwich item on its menu these days, Blue Ribbon Bakery Market's smoked salmon toast is entirely different, amazing and special. A thick tile of fresh bread, perfectly toasted, is coated with a hefty layer of three-onion cream (what a brilliant idea) and heaps of the most pristine and delectable smoked salmon, drizzled with olive oil, then sprinkled with capers and chives and served with a bright wedge of lemon. The result makes for a heavenly breakfast or light lunch that goes well with juice, coffee, or even chocolate milk. Buyer beware, last I checked, the small bottle of Ronny Brook chocolate milk, cost $4 (you get a dollar refund with return of the bottle).

Not just pretty on the plate, salmon is a supremely healthy food choice. The ample portions of salmon on this open-faced sandwich make it an exceptionally energizing breakfast before a bike ride, city trek or museum visit.