Frederic Melton
The chopped cheese sandwich, also known as the chop cheese, is a type of sandwich that originated in New York City. It is made on a grill with ground beef, onions, adobo or other seasonings, and cheese, all chopped together as the meat and onions cook and the cheese melts. It is served with lettuce, tomatoes, and condiments on a hero roll. While the sandwich can be found in bodegas throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Queens, some sources claim that it originated in a Spanish Harlem bodega called Hajji's Deli, also known as Blue Sky Deli. If you're looking for chopped cheese in Queens specifically, you might want to try The Local Eatery & Craft Beer, Compton's, 179th Street Deli, Bodega Truck, or Blue Sky Deli.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Origin | New York City |
| Origin debate | Generally agreed to be Harlem, specifically a Spanish Harlem bodega called Hajji's Deli, also known as Blue Sky Deli |
| Origin speculation | Adaptation of an Arab specialty, dagha yamneeya (دقة يمنية), which is cooked chopped meat and vegetables served with Yemeni bread |
| Ingredients | Ground beef, onions, adobo or other seasonings, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and condiments on a hero roll |
| Queens restaurants | The Local Eatery & Craft Beer, Compton's, 179th Street Deli, Bodega Truck, Blue Sky Deli, Sunny deli |
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Blue Sky Deli
When you step into Blue Sky Deli, you'll find a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The walls are often decorated with local art, giving the place a distinct character. It's a great place to grab a quick bite or even enjoy a leisurely meal with friends and family. The staff is friendly and always happy to help, ensuring that your dining experience is a pleasant one.
Now, onto the star of the show—their chopped cheese! Blue Sky Deli's take on this Queens classic is exceptional. Their sandwich starts with a soft, fluffy hero roll, which is then stuffed with freshly chopped and seasoned ground beef, grilled to perfection. Melted cheese, usually a combination of American and cheddar, oozes out from between the layers, creating a decadent and irresistible treat. Onions and peppers are also often added to the mix, providing a slight crunch and a burst of flavor.
But Blue Sky Deli doesn't stop there. They offer a range of other delicious sandwiches, wraps, and salads, ensuring that there's something for every taste. Their ingredients are always fresh, and they take pride in offering high-quality food at affordable prices. You'll also find a variety of sides and beverages to complete your meal, including classic deli favorites like pickles and soups.
One of the unique aspects of Blue Sky Deli is their commitment to the community. They often partner with local businesses and organizations to host events and support local initiatives. Whether it's a food drive during the holidays or a fundraiser for a local charity, they are an integral part of the Queens community. This sense of community engagement adds to the overall appeal of the deli, making it more than just a place to eat but a true neighborhood staple.
So, if you're craving a delicious chopped cheese sandwich or simply exploring the culinary delights of Queens, a visit to Blue Sky Deli is a must. With their tasty food, welcoming atmosphere, and community-focused spirit, they embody the best of Queens' diverse and vibrant food culture. Don't be surprised if you find yourself becoming a regular!
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Spanish delis
Chopped cheese is a type of sandwich that originated in New York City. It is made on a grill with ground beef, onions, seasonings, and cheese, which are all chopped and cooked together. It is then served with lettuce, tomatoes, and condiments on a hero roll. While the origins of the sandwich are debated, it is generally believed that it was first created in a Spanish Harlem bodega called Hajji's Deli, also known as the Blue Sky Deli.
If you're looking for a Spanish deli in Queens to get your chopped cheese fix, there are a few options to consider. One popular spot is the Blue Sky Deli (formerly known as Hajji's) in Harlem, which is often cited as the birthplace of the chopped cheese. They are known for their delicious seasoning, and many people specifically seek them out for an authentic chopped cheese experience.
In the Laurelton/Rosedale area of Queens, you can find The Local Mrkt, a grab-and-go spot that is popular among locals and foodies. They offer a variety of sandwiches, including the chopped cheese, and their customers keep going back for more.
Another option in Queens is the Sunny Deli in Maspeth, located at 60-84 Fresh Pond Rd. While this deli is specifically mentioned for its chopped cheese, it is worth noting that some people believe that the best chopped cheese can be found in the Spanish delis of Southeast Queens.
Finally, while not a Spanish deli, Red Hook Food Corp in Queens has gained popularity on TikTok for its unique take on the chopped cheese, adding unusual ingredients to their sandwiches.
So, while there are some specific delis noted for their chopped cheese, you might also want to explore the Spanish delis of Southeast Queens or other random bodegas and delis in the area to discover your favourite version of this iconic New York sandwich.
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Bodega shops
Chopped cheese is a type of sandwich that originated in New York City, specifically in a Spanish Harlem bodega called Hajji's Deli, also known as Blue Sky Deli. The sandwich is made on a grill with ground beef, onions, adobo or other seasonings, and cheese, all chopped together as the meat cooks and the cheese melts. It is then served with lettuce, tomatoes, and condiments on a hero roll.
After its creation at Hajji's Deli in the 1990s, the concept of the chopped cheese sandwich spread to other bodega shops throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Queens. Some popular bodega shops in Queens that serve chopped cheese include:
- Blue Sky Deli (Hajji's Deli) in Bayside
- 179th Street Deli
- Bodega Truck
- Compton's
- The Local Eatery & Craft Beer
These bodega shops in Queens offer a taste of the iconic New York City sandwich, which has become a cultural phenomenon, even sparking debates about cultural appropriation when it began to be served in upscale restaurants at higher prices.
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Southeast Queens
If you're looking for chopped cheese in Southeast Queens, there are a few options to consider. One popular spot is Blue Sky Deli, also known as Hajji's, which is said to be the birthplace of the chopped cheese sandwich. It's located in East Harlem, but it's worth the trip if you're looking for an authentic experience.
Another option in Queens is The Local Mrkt, a grab-and-go spot that has gained popularity among locals and foodies alike. They offer a variety of sandwiches, including the famous chopped cheese.
In addition, some people recommend trying a Spanish deli in Queens for a unique take on the chopped cheese, as they use real bacon. One specific recommendation is Sunny Deli in Maspeth, located at 60-84 Fresh Pond Rd.
While the chopped cheese sandwich is a cultural icon in New York, it's not as widely available in Queens as it is in other boroughs like Harlem or the Bronx. However, the options mentioned above should provide a satisfying and delicious experience for anyone craving this New York classic.
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Maspeth's Sunny Deli
The Chopped Cheese is a New York classic, and at Sunny Deli, it is a crowd favourite. The sandwich typically consists of ground meat or chopped beef burger, lettuce, tomato, and American cheese. While the exact ingredients may vary, the result is a delicious, hearty sandwich.
Sunny Deli's Chopped Cheese has gained a reputation, with some claiming it to be the best in Queens. The deli itself has a friendly, neighbourhood vibe, and it is a go-to spot for locals looking for a satisfying meal any time of the day. The deli is also convenient for those on the go, offering delivery options through Uber Eats, making it accessible to a wider range of customers.
In addition to their signature Chopped Cheese, Sunny Deli offers a variety of other sandwiches, such as the Bacon Egg Cheese Breakfast and the Chicken Cutlet. For those looking for a heartier meal, the Smoked Turkey Sub and Chicken Over Fries are also popular choices. The deli also serves a range of beverages, including Snapple, to accompany your sandwich of choice.
So, if you're in the Queens area and craving a classic New York deli experience, Maspeth's Sunny Deli is definitely worth a visit or a quick delivery order. Their Chopped Cheese sandwich is a must-try, but don't forget to explore their other delicious options as well!
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Frequently asked questions
You can get chopped cheese at various delis and bodegas in Queens, including the Blue Sky Deli, also known as Hajji's Deli, which is believed to be the birthplace of the sandwich.
Yes, other spots in Queens that serve chopped cheese include the 179th Street Deli, Bodega Truck, and Compton's.
Chopped cheese is a type of sandwich originating from New York City, typically made with ground beef, onions, seasonings, and cheese, chopped and grilled together, and served on a hero roll with lettuce, tomatoes, and condiments.
Yes, in addition to Queens, chopped cheese sandwiches can be found in Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Spanish Harlem, where the sandwich is believed to have originated.
