15 Posts About NYC Bodegas That Only Locals Would Understand

By Khadija Pervez in Funny On 11th November 2023

Let's talk about the secret language of New York City bodegas, those magical corner stores that make everyday life extraordinary. We'll uncover the hidden gems that only locals truly get. From decoding the bodega cat's mood to the unwritten rule of "exact change only," we're exploring the unique quirks and unspoken traditions that give each bodega its own special charm.

In the heart of New York City, bodegas stand as more than just convenience stores; they are the lifeblood of local living.

In these 15 posts, we unravel the unique experiences that define bodega culture for true New Yorkers.

From the breakfast sandwich rituals to the late-night camaraderie with resident cats, these snapshots celebrate the quirks and connections that make NYC bodegas an integral part of the city's identity.

Big News

big news, my bodega guy promoted me from “boss” to “my brother”
— dan the rock yang (@realDANYANG) February 7, 2022

They Are Our True Love

Anyone who knows a single thing about NYC already could have told you it’s the bodega guys who keep us safe.
— Eli Williams-Szenes (@EliSzenes) April 14, 2022

This Is Perfect. Thank You.

Walked into the bodega and asked if they sold butter. “Sorry, no,” but then a pause, “How much do you need? Just cooking dinner?”

Love you, New York City. pic.twitter.com/NEdg11zqF9
— Isaac Fitzgerald (@IsaacFitzgerald) April 10, 2022

Store Owners Are The Real Heroes

Last night a guy followed me into a bodega. When I told him to leave me alone, he said that I couldn’t stay in the store all night. Then the store owner told him to leave, he didn’t, the owner hopped over the counter with a lock and they fought in the street. Bodegas forever.
— Kenice Mobley (@kenicemobley) August 8, 2020

At Least He's Honest

I am over 30, pls stop pretending to like me..I know when someone likes me. My bodega guy never smiles but puts extra cream cheese on my bagel & doesn’t charge me extra. Slides Swedish Fish in my bag for no reason. Doesn’t laugh at any of my jokes. I know when someone likes me.
— Sydnee Washington (@Justsydnyc) January 30, 2019

True Convenience

The bodega down the street has photographed all their shelves and posted an enormous collage outside so you can browse without going in pic.twitter.com/1tPWEtWZxG
— Emily Guendelsberger (@emilygee) April 26, 2020

We Do Too We'll Be Real

Just spent 15 minutes in my local bodega trying to explain Muhammad Ali’s various psychological boxing strategies to my friends behind the counter so yes,
I’ve become that old Puerto Rican
with a lot to say in the bodega while you are just trying to buy a coffee
— Lin-Manuel Miranda (@Lin_Manuel) August 3, 2018

Ma'am...

I don’t know what message she’s trying to send, but the lady at my bodega snuck an entire salad into my turkey sandwich. pic.twitter.com/g8tYMI4Gkp
— Josh Gondelman (@joshgondelman) December 12, 2019

Sus But We Like It

truly afraid to find out what this bodega sign means pic.twitter.com/pdhGZsmbSd
— Summer Boner (@DillonDiatlo) July 9, 2021

Same

Me getting all dressed just to got to the bodega https://t.co/o4skyHbCPj
— Edwin Honoret 💫 Fashion? FASH HIM (@Edwin_Honoret) September 18, 2019

Store Of Many Options

just bought a cast iron skillet at the bodega. would any one like to argue in the replies about this
— leon (@leyawn) December 10, 2020

All Hail Bodega Cats

When your bodega cat is also a bachata cat: https://t.co/KZTeKXnkuL
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) March 22, 2019