There are many different ways to eat a bialy. Traditionally, the bialy was eaten warm, fresh from the bakery. Butter was spread on top so it would pool in the hole, or it was smeared on the bottom. Nowadays, the bialy is sliced in half, than toasted. There is still a difference of opinion about whether the top and bottom should be eaten separately or together. Let the consumer decide. A range of toppings work well with a bialy — butter, cream cheese, jam, smoked fish, or a favorite sandwich filling. (from Bell)