More Than Just Your Average Corner Store…

Here’s a nice look at something that makes this city unique: Bodegas.

This Flickr site features stunning photographs a common New York sight that we all take for granted. They’re a large part of city life and its landscape, but you rarely find them anywhere else. If you live in Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx or Queens, you probably have a favorite local bodega. They’re cultural landmarks that every New Yorker uses in their day-to-day life.

The bodega is an integral part of city life. These small variety stores stock all the things that New Yorkers needs while they’re on the go. “Bodega” is actually a Mexican Spanish word, but the person at the register might be Asian, Middle Eastern, Indian or any other ethnic group. Most take up a few feet of sidewalk with displays of newspapers and cut flowers, protected from rain and snow by canvas or clear plastic sheets. In spite of this, no two are exactly alike - one corner bodega might stock Clif bars and energy drinks, but the one two blocks over might stock beer and soda.

One of the the fun bits of New York life is finding the bodega(s) that stock what you want. Once the staff gets to know you, they might have your regular purchase ready for you, or they’ll inform you when something you normally get is out of stock, as soon as you walk through the door. If they really like you, they might even cut you a break on cigarettes. Bodegas also serve a social function — they’re meeting spots and hangout for locals. People compare products and prices and exchange local gossip. Sometimes they’re even temporary day-care centers; local kids run up & down the aisles under the watchful eye of the staff, while the parents stand outside and enjoy a brief break from parenting.

Grocery store, social club, even day-care center — New York’s bodegas are one of the things that give it busy, bustling streets that small-town, homey feel. Without them, New York wouldn’t be quite the collection of neighborhoods

This entry was posted by A.Rehak on Friday, June 16th, 2006 at 10:12 am