New York City is a global culinary capital, boasting an incredibly diverse and vibrant food scene. From Michelin-starred restaurants to humble street food vendors, the city offers a taste for every palate. To truly navigate the amazing Food Places In New York City like a local, it’s helpful to understand some unique culinary terms you’ll encounter. This glossary will guide you through essential NYC food jargon, helping you order like a pro and discover the best eats the city has to offer.
Must-Know New York City Food Terms and Where to Find Them
BEC (Bacon, Egg, and Cheese)
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The BEC, or bacon, egg, and cheese, is the quintessential New York breakfast sandwich. This messy, delicious staple can be found in almost every corner deli and grill across the five boroughs. For a truly authentic experience, head to any local deli – these food places are the heart of New York’s grab-and-go breakfast culture. Expect a no-frills, flavorful start to your day that perfectly captures the city’s fast-paced energy.
Bialy
While New York is famously obsessed with bagels, the bialy offers a delightful alternative. Originating from Bialystok, Poland, this flat, chewy roll features a distinctive onion-filled center. For a taste of tradition, visit dedicated bialy bakeries like Kossar’s Bialys on the Lower East Side. These specialized food places keep the bialy tradition alive, offering a unique taste of New York’s Jewish culinary heritage, distinct from the ubiquitous bagel.
Bodega
Forget convenience stores or 7-Elevens; in New York City, it’s all about the bodega. These ubiquitous corner stores are on practically every block and are essential food places for New Yorkers. Bodegas are your one-stop shop for everything from morning coffee and late-night snacks to essential groceries. Step into any bodega and you’ll find a microcosm of city life, often complete with a resident bodega cat adding to the local charm.
Chopped Cheese
The chopped cheese, or chop cheese, is another iconic New York sandwich, born in the delis of the city. Ground beef is chopped and grilled with melted American cheese and onions, then piled onto a hero roll. While its origins are debated, many credit Blue Sky Deli in East Harlem as the originator. Today, chopped cheese sandwiches are a menu staple in delis throughout the city, offering a savory and satisfying taste of NYC street food.
Egg Cream
Don’t let the name fool you – the egg cream contains neither eggs nor cream. This classic New York beverage is a refreshing mix of milk, flavored syrup (Fox’s U-Bet chocolate syrup is the local favorite), and club soda. Once a fading icon, the egg cream is experiencing a revival in modern food places. Try Agi’s Counter in Crown Heights or Old John’s Luncheonette on the Upper West Side to taste this retro favorite, demonstrating how classic NYC flavors are being reimagined in contemporary settings.
Schmear
When ordering a bagel, knowing the term “schmear” is key. Asking for a schmear simply means you want cream cheese. Mastering this term will ensure you get the perfect amount of cream cheese on your bagel at any of the city’s countless bagel shops. It’s a simple word that speaks volumes about your New York food savvy.
Slice
In most of the country, you order pizza by the pie. In New York City, the slice reigns supreme. Pizzerias across the city proudly display a wide array of pizza slices, from classic cheese to more elaborate toppings like pepperoni, eggplant, or buffalo chicken. Walk into any pizzeria in NYC and you’ll be greeted by a dazzling counter of slices, ready to be enjoyed on the go – a true testament to New York’s fast-paced and diverse food culture.
Conclusion
Understanding these essential New York City food terms will significantly enhance your culinary explorations. From delis to pizzerias, knowing the local lingo opens doors to a more authentic and enjoyable food experience in the city that never sleeps. So, venture out, explore these food places in New York City, and eat like a true New Yorker!
