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.
15 Posts About NYC Bodegas That Only Locals Would Understand
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?”
— Isaac Fitzgerald (@IsaacFitzgerald) April 10, 2022
Love you, New York City. pic.twitter.com/NEdg11zqF9
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,
— Lin-Manuel Miranda (@Lin_Manuel) August 3, 2018
I’ve become that old Puerto Rican
with a lot to say in the bodega while you are just trying to buy a coffee
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