Community First: The Unrecognized Culture of Bodegas
“In a city that never sleeps, bodegas are a comforting reminder of how the little things aren't so little.”
In New York City, there are only a few things you can always count on. And one of those things is the classic corner store. But in New York, we call them “Bodegas.” Many people like myself stop by our bodega almost daily, often making friends with those who work behind the counter. In a way, these bodegas are more than just a store to us. They become a part of our routine, and it's engraved in our minds to stop there for breakfast, for the news, for a lottery ticket.
Bodegas are like snapshots of New York’s diversity. Each bodega offers a variety of products that just about anyone from any background is familiar with. A local bodega will have someone cooking up fresh sandwiches, will be lined with boxes of fruit, and will have a diverse selection of snacks. For me personally, walking into a bodega feels like stepping into a gathering place in which every culture joins and shares their stories. The shelves are loaded with items that may take you back home cooking, or remind you of that time you tried something different. It’s the best opportunity to find a new favorite snack or strike up a conversation with someone of a different background.
One of the best aspects of going into your local bodega is the trust that builds over time. The people behind the counter learn your name as you become a regular, and most times remember your usual order. They become a part of your daily routine, and are a friendly stop on your way to work, school, or even while you are just hanging out. I’ve gained endless trust for my local bodega, as there have been times I’ve left my phone there accidentally, and when I came back it was always there fully charged and held behind the counter. It’s scenarios like these that help us love the community we live in, and appreciate the people that we don’t often think about, other than when in their presence. Even the quick conversations before you check out can brighten your day in a way that wasn’t expected.
For many of us, the thought of bodegas refer to many scenarios of satisfaction. The amazing breakfast sandwich, or when the late night snack was exactly what your taste buds needed. The smell of bread and coffee can take you back to good moments in your life, when things were just simple. Whether it was contemplating something deep while picking out a candy, or the satisfaction of getting a bacon, egg, and cheese before school, these experiences shape our connection to food and our communities. Each visit gives the opportunity to be a sponge and absorb the positive vibes only a bodega would offer.
Bodegas are more than just convenience stores that we all depend on. They are the glue to the community, a staple of our satisfaction, and ultimately a huge contribution to who we are today. They are a big part of what makes New York City special today. They represent the friendships we build, the cultures we appreciate, and the trust we create in our neighborhoods. So the next time you stop by your local bodega, keep in mind the convenience, but also remember the welcome vibes it consistently brings. In a city that never sleeps, bodegas are a comforting reminder of how the little things aren't so little.