Eat This DISH OF THE WEEK: Matjes Herring Sandwich at SHERRY HERRING in New York City

SADLY, SHERRY HERRING IS NOW CLOSED.

I would think there are only a few places in the world where there would be lines out the door for the latest location of Sherry Herring. And although the afternoon I arrived was pretty quiet, I have to imagine they picked a very good location in the Upper West Side.

Sherry Herring (which must be a pun on the Danish liqueur cherry herring) is hugely popular in Tel Aviv and now has opened their first location outside of Israel.

It’s a unique concept because the Danish-style herring they sell is more closely entwined with New York Jewish culture than Israeli culture.

And while it may not be so ubiquitous in the Middle East, it is also not nearly as common in NYC as it used to be.

That being said, many a New Yorker still appreciate and celebrate a good pickled fish. And I am definitely one of them.

So I was so excited when I got to stop by Sherry Herring. It felt like a cross between an old world appetizing store and a hipster sandwich shop. It was very difficult for me to choose between the smoked tuna, the smoked sardines, and the namesake herring.

In the end, herring wins at a place called Sherry Herring.

There are still two options within the herring category: Matjes, a younger larger salty herring and the Schmaltz, a plump buttery herring.

Another hard choice, but matjes seems to be their signature so I happily went with that.

This sandwich was no less buttery. It was comprised not of a bagel but a very crispy French-style baguette. Layered between the bread were delicate chunks of salty, briny herring enhanced by the rich sour cream and cut with potent raw onions, bright cherry tomatoes, and a touch of spice from the chili peppers.

I have to admit this is not the type of smoked fish sandwich I am used to, but the flavors were impeccable. It’s a new concept of an old flavor and I have no doubt New Yorkers (at least Upper West Siders) will quickly line up for a taste of heaven.  Price: $15.95