Patrick Oconnell
The chopped cheese sandwich is an iconic New York dish, consisting of chopped ground beef, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a special sauce, all served on a soft sub roll. While you can find chopped cheese in bodegas across the city, there are a few spots that stand out. Blue Sky Deli (formerly known as Hajji's) in East Harlem is believed to be the birthplace of the chopped cheese, and their classic version is loaded with flavour. For an upmarket take on the sandwich, Compton's in Greenpoint and Astoria serves the most expensive chopped cheese in NYC at $15, but it's worth it for the rich beef, gooey cheese, and crusty sesame semolina loaf. If you're looking for a late-night bite, Stage Star Deli is the place to go, and for something a little different, Pink's Cantina on the Lower East Side serves a chopped cheese burrito.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best chopped cheese in NYC | Blue Sky Deli (also known as Hajji's) in East Harlem |
| Compton's in Greenpoint and Astoria | |
| Stage Star Deli | |
| Pink's Cantina on the Lower Eastside | |
| Hell's Kitchen burger shop | |
| Bodega Truck |
Explore related products
$1.74
What You'll Learn
Blue Sky Deli in East Harlem
If you're looking for a chopped cheese sandwich in New York City, one of the best places to visit is Blue Sky Deli in East Harlem. Also known as Hajji's, this deli is believed to be the birthplace of the chopped cheese sandwich.
Inside the bodega, TVs play a loop of YouTube video essays by food publications, celebrating the iconic status of this East Harlem deli. Blue Sky Deli is simple and classic, serving up a chopped cheese that's loaded with sazón. It's best enjoyed in Thomas Jefferson Park, just around the corner—grab a soda and a bag of red hot chips to go with your sandwich.
The chopped cheese itself is a deliciously gooey, salty mess of beef, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and bodega sauce, all served on a soft, squishy hero roll. The roll barely contains the sandwich, making it a messy affair—perfect for spilling on your clothes after a night out.
Blue Sky Deli is located on 1st Avenue and 110th Street, and while there is some debate about who invented the chopped cheese, this East Harlem bodega certainly has the strongest claim.
Cheese, Please! Block Strategies for Dota 2
You may want to see also
Hell's Kitchen burger shop
If you're looking for a chopped cheese sandwich in NYC, you'll likely find the best ones in bodegas and delis, particularly in Harlem, the Bronx, and uptown. However, if you're looking for a sit-down restaurant experience, Hell's Kitchen burger shop in Astoria is a great option. While chopped cheese isn't on their official menu, you can almost always get it if you ask. Hell's Kitchen serves their chopped cheese on pillowy soft burger rolls, stuffed with salty, well-caramelized beef and the addition of pickled jalapeños for some acidity and a touch of heat. At $15, it's pricier than your average chopped cheese, but you can play Pac-Man while you wait for your sandwich, and the quality and atmosphere make it worth the money.
Hell's Kitchen's chopped cheese is a fancier take on the classic sandwich, which you can find at various delis and bodegas across NYC. One of the most famous is Blue Sky Deli, formerly known as Hajji's, in East Harlem. This deli claims to be the birthplace of the chopped cheese, and you can watch YouTube videos about its history while you eat. Their version is simple and classic, loaded with sazón and best enjoyed in nearby Thomas Jefferson Park.
Another popular option is the Bodega Truck, a food truck with several locations across NYC. Their traditional chopped cheese, or "The OG," features seasoned ground beef, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a secret "bodega sauce" on a club roll. It's served wrapped in wax paper, giving it the appearance of a burrito.
For a unique twist on the classic, try Pink's Cantina on the Lower East Side, which serves a chopped cheese burrito. While it doesn't include lettuce or tomato, the ground beef and American cheese are still delicious.
Finally, for a more old-school deli experience, try Stage Star Deli. They serve a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, including a tasty chopped cheese. It's a busy, fast-paced spot with good food and helpful staff.
Cheese Heating: Killing Bacteria for Safe Consumption
You may want to see also
Stage Star Deli
If you're looking for a chopped cheese sandwich in NYC, one popular option is Stage Star Deli. Located in the bustling city, this busy, fast-paced deli offers a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, including the famous chopped cheese. With friendly staff and good food, it's no wonder that this deli is a hidden gem for many.
The chopped cheese sandwich is an iconic New York sandwich, right up there with the classic chicken parm. It's a simple yet delicious creation, typically found in bodegas and delis across the city. The sandwich consists of a soft sub roll filled with chopped, seasoned ground beef, and American cheese. It's a salty, messy delight, often enjoyed after a night out.
While the exact origins of the chopped cheese sandwich are debated, many sources credit Blue Sky Deli, formerly known as Hajji's, in East Harlem. This bodega, with its simple, classic take on the sandwich, has become a popular destination for those wanting to try the original. Their version is loaded with sazón and is best enjoyed in nearby Thomas Jefferson Park, accompanied by a soda and a bag of chips.
So, if you're in the mood for a classic New York culinary experience, head to Stage Star Deli for a tasty chopped cheese sandwich. With its convenient location, friendly service, and delicious food, it's a great choice for both locals and visitors alike. Don't forget to check out other popular spots like Compton's in Greenpoint and Astoria, and Pink's Cantina on the Lower East Side for their unique chopped cheese burrito.
Unlocking the Obby Room: Cheesy Escape Strategies
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$1.73
Bodega food trucks
If you're looking for a chopped cheese sandwich in NYC, you'll likely find the best ones in bodegas and delis, particularly in Harlem, the Bronx, and uptown. Blue Sky Deli (formerly known as Hajji's) in East Harlem is often credited with inventing the sandwich, and it remains a popular choice. However, if you're looking for a unique dining experience, why consider trying a bodega food truck?
- Variety: Bodega food trucks offer a full menu of options, including various takes on the classic chopped cheese. You can find traditional versions or more innovative creations, ensuring there's something for every taste.
- Convenience: Food trucks are mobile, so they can set up in different locations throughout the city. This means you can find one near you, saving you time and effort in travelling to a specific neighbourhood.
- Quality: Just like their brick-and-mortar counterparts, bodega food trucks pride themselves on serving high-quality food. Fresh ingredients, delicious sauces, and careful preparation ensure a tasty dining experience.
- Authenticity: Bodega food trucks embody the spirit of New York City. They combine the city's diverse culinary traditions with the convenience and mobility that New Yorkers value. By dining at a bodega food truck, you're getting a true taste of the city's culture and lifestyle.
When it comes to specific recommendations, Bodega Truck is a popular choice, offering the traditional chopped cheese sandwich, known as "The OG", at various locations around the city. You can use their website's locator function to find the truck nearest to you.
So, if you're craving a chopped cheese sandwich and want to try something different, keep an eye out for bodega food trucks in your area. They offer a unique and convenient way to enjoy this iconic New York dish.
The Secret to Thinning Velveeta Cheese
You may want to see also
Pink's Cantina on the Lower East Side
If you're craving a chopped cheese but are in the mood for something a little different, head to Pink's Cantina on the Lower East Side. This spot has taken the classic chopped cheese sandwich and transformed it into a burrito. While it may not include the traditional lettuce and tomato, the ground beef and American cheese flavours are still delicious. So if you're feeling adventurous, give their unique take on this New York classic a try, but don't forget to ask them to add the missing veggies!
Pink's Cantina is a popular choice for those seeking a twist on the traditional chopped cheese. Their innovative burrito offers a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for those who want to indulge in the flavours of the iconic sandwich but with a fun and convenient twist.
The chopped cheese burrito at Pink's Cantina has gained a reputation for its mouthwatering flavours. The combination of ground beef and American cheese creates a delectable fusion that keeps customers coming back for more. It's a unique offering that sets Pink's Cantina apart from other eateries in the city.
Located in the vibrant Lower East Side, Pink's Cantina is nestled among the diverse array of restaurants, bars, and shops that characterise the neighbourhood. The area's energetic atmosphere and eclectic culinary scene make it the perfect destination for those seeking a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Pink's Cantina is worth a visit for anyone craving a creative take on a New York classic.
So, if you're in the mood for something different, head to Pink's Cantina on the Lower East Side and treat yourself to their unique chopped cheese burrito. Don't forget to customise your order with the addition of lettuce and tomato to ensure a truly satisfying dining experience.
Cheese Color Chemistry: Natural vs Artificial
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Chopped cheese sandwiches are available at various delis and bodegas across NYC. Blue Sky Deli in East Harlem, also known as Hajji's, is believed to be the birthplace of the chopped cheese. Other popular spots include Stage Star Deli, Compton's in Greenpoint and Astoria, and Pink's Cantina on the Lower East Side, which serves a chopped cheese burrito.
A chopped cheese is a sandwich made with a soft sub roll, chopped ground beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a special sauce. It's often described as a salty, messy affair, perfect for a late-night bite.
Prices vary depending on the location, with Compton's selling the most expensive chopped cheese at $15. The same sandwich at Haji's costs $8.
The exact history of the chopped cheese is debated, but it is believed to have originated in East Harlem at Blue Sky Deli, formerly known as Hajji's. It gained popularity in the Bronx and has become a staple in New York City cuisine.
