The 13 Best Bodega Sandwiches In NYC, According To A Local
If New York City were a sandwich, it would probably be wrapped in foil and sold at the corner deli for $6.50. Bodega sandwiches are more than just food; they're a way of life. From the depths of the Bronx to the edges of Staten Island, the humble bodega serves as the beating heart of every neighborhood. It's where you go for your morning BEC (that's bacon, egg, and cheese — for the uninitiated), your midday turkey club, and your midnight chopped cheese. And while the city's culinary scene might be bursting with Michelin stars and $200 tasting menus, the true flavor of New York is wrapped in deli paper and is cheap, portable, and packed with love (and sometimes a little too much mayo).
What makes a bodega sandwich great? First off, it's gotta be satisfying — none of that light lunch nonsense. And no bagels with cream cheese either. A great bodega sandwich should leave you feeling full for hours. Secondly, the flavors have to hit. I'm talking about that perfect balance of salty, savory, and greasy, all with a little crunch for texture. Lastly, it's about accessibility — bodega sandwiches are meant to be quick and easy, ready for you to grab and go at any time of day or night. These are sandwiches for the people, by the people. Let's dive into the city's finest offerings.
Chopped cheese at Blue Sky Deli (Hajji's)
Ah, the chopped cheese — the sandwich that sparked a thousand debates. Blue Sky Deli, affectionately known as Hajji's, is often credited with creating the iconic chopped cheese, though the origins are hotly contested. Regardless of who invented it, Hajji's serves up a version that's hard to beat. This sandwich is as NYC bodega as it gets: ground beef, onions, melted cheese, lettuce, tomato, all chopped up on the grill and stuffed into a hero roll. It's greasy, it's messy, and it's delicious.
In recent years, the chopped cheese has gone from a neighborhood staple to a city-wide phenomenon, with prices creeping up thanks to its newfound fame. But even with the inflation, Hajji's chopped cheese is still a bargain compared to most of NYC's culinary offerings. It's the kind of sandwich that you can customize to your liking; I like mine with pickled jalapeños, mustard, mayo, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Trust me, that combo brings the heat and adds just the right amount of crunch to balance out the gooey melted cheese.
(646) 682-7488
2135 1st Ave, New York, NY 10029
Bacon, egg, and cheese at Don Juan Deli & Grocery
The bacon, egg, and cheese — or BEC, as it's affectionately known — is the king of New York breakfast sandwiches, and Don Juan Deli & Grocery on the Lower East Side serves up one of the best. This bodega has been a neighborhood staple for years, beloved for its Dominican goods and hot food counter. But the BEC is where it really shines. The egg is soft and fluffy, the cheese is gooey, and the bacon is crisp and greasy in all the right ways. It's the kind of sandwich that makes you feel like everything's going to be okay, even if you're running late for work.
Don Juan's BEC isn't just a breakfast staple — it's a rite of passage for anyone living on the Lower East Side. The sandwich comes wrapped in foil, ready to be devoured on the go, whether you're heading to work, class, or just trying to survive another morning in the city. I like to customize mine with the same toppings I use for my chopped cheese: mustard, mayo, and pickled jalapeños. It's a game-changer.
(212) 925-7370
110 Forsyth St #C, New York, NY 10002
The Chicken Lulu at Ariemma's Italian Deli
Staten Island's Ariemma's Italian Deli is one of those places that makes you wonder why you don't visit the island more often. This family-owned deli has been serving the community for decades, dishing out massive Italian sub sandwiches that put even the fanciest Manhattan joints to shame. Its menu is a dizzying array of options, but the Chicken Lulu stands out as a local favorite. Picture this: a crispy fried chicken cutlet, smothered in rich brown gravy, and topped with mozzarella that melts right into the bread. It's the kind of sandwich that requires two hands, several napkins, and possibly a food coma afterward. But it's worth every bite.
The Chicken Lulu is hearty and comforting, like a hug from an Italian grandmother who won't let you leave the table until you've eaten enough for three people. The brown gravy adds a richness that soaks into the hero roll, while the fried chicken stays crispy despite the mess. Ariemma's has been feeding Staten Islanders for decades, and the Chicken Lulu is proof that sometimes, bigger really is better.
(718) 979-2630
1791 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10305
Buffalo chicken wrap at Deli Bite
Cobble Hill's Deli Bite may look like a regular corner deli, but its buffalo chicken wrap is anything but ordinary. This isn't your standard buffalo chicken — you're getting diced, crispy chicken cutlets drenched in buffalo sauce, topped with creamy avocado, and wrapped in a tortilla that could double as a pillow. The result? A sandwich that's got it all: heat from the buffalo sauce, creaminess from the avocado, and crunch from the crispy chicken.
It's the kind of sandwich that feels almost too big to finish, but you'll keep going because every bite is better than the last. And for those who like their sandwiches a little saucy, this one's for you. The buffalo sauce is generous, soaking into the tortilla just enough to keep things flavorful without turning it into a soggy mess. Whether you're a buffalo sauce fanatic or just looking for a solid chicken wrap, Deli Bite's got you covered.
(718) 673-6256
149 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Bacon, egg, and cheese at O.H.S. Mini Market
Up in Williamsburg, near McCarren Park, there's a little bodega that's been serving up one of the most satisfyingly sloppy BECs in the city. O.H.S. Mini Market is the kind of place you'd walk past a hundred times without noticing, but once you try its BEC, you'll never forget it. This sandwich is a bit of a mess — the egg, bacon, and cheese all seem to tumble onto the roll in a rush — but that's what makes it so good. It's sloppy in the best way, with bacon that's salty enough to cure any hangover and eggs that are rich and slightly runny.
There's something about a slightly imperfect sandwich that feels more authentic, more real. O.H.S. Mini Market's BEC is a perfect example of that. It's not the prettiest sandwich, but it's got soul. And when it comes to a bodega breakfast, that's really all you need.
(718) 383-5942
227 Nassau Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
King of the Hill at Ariemma's Italian Deli
Ariemma's King of the Hill sandwich is another impressive offering from the store. This isn't just any prosciutto sandwich — it's a masterpiece of Italian flavors. Parma prosciutto, thinly-sliced and layered with imported provolone, pickled eggplant, and balsamic dressing, all stacked on a fresh hero roll. What makes this sandwich stand out is the pickled eggplant, which adds a tangy, slightly funky note that balances the richness of the cured meat and cheese. It's like your classic Italian hero, but with a twist that'll make you wonder why more delis don't use pickled veggies.
The King of the Hill is a reminder that Staten Island is home to some of the best Italian delis in the city. Ariemma's has been a staple in the community for years, and its sandwiches reflect that old-school Italian-American tradition of using high-quality ingredients with no shortcuts. You can taste the care that goes into every bite.
(718) 979-2630
1791 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10305
Cajun chicken hero at Quincy Market
Tucked away in Bed-Stuy, Quincy Market isn't just your run-of-the-mill bodega — it's a hidden treasure trove of snacks, drinks, and one seriously spicy Cajun chicken hero. In fact, it might just be my personal favorite on the list. The deli itself is a neighborhood staple, and the kind of place where you can find just about anything, from fresh produce to imported snacks, but it's the sandwich menu that keeps people coming back. The Cajun chicken hero is a standout, with perfectly seasoned, spicy Cajun chicken that gives your taste buds a serious kick.
The sandwich is loaded with sauteed peppers and onions, fresh lettuce, and melty pepper Jack cheese, all crammed into a hero roll that can barely contain the delicious chaos within. Every bite hits with a perfect mix of heat, crunch, and softness — an ideal combination of textures and flavors. I never leave Quincy Deli without grabbing one of these, and frankly, I'd be suspicious of anyone who doesn't love it.
(718) 857-4257
331 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216
Chicken cordon bleu at 5th Ave. Market & Gourmet Deli
Park Slope's 5th Ave. Market & Gourmet Deli is the kind of place where the sandwich menu feels endless, but one of its standout offerings is the chicken cordon bleu. This isn't your typical bodega fare; it's a creative take on a French classic, with a crispy chicken cutlet, gooey Swiss cheese, salty ham, and a garlicky aioli that brings the whole thing together. The chicken is perfectly fried, with a crispy coating that gives way to juicy, tender meat, and the combination of ham and cheese adds a rich, salty flavor that's hard to resist.
What makes this sandwich truly special is the aioli — it's garlicky, creamy, and just a little bit tangy, and it elevates the sandwich from good to unforgettable. It's the kind of sandwich you find yourself craving long after you've finished your last bite. If you're looking for something indulgent and a little different from the usual bodega offerings, the chicken cordon bleu at 5th Ave. Market is a must-try.
5thavenuemarketgourmetdeli.com
(718) 230-8050
185 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Kobe Bryant with avocado at Rocky's Deli & Grill
Fort Greene's Rocky's Deli & Grill offers a sandwich so epic, it's fittingly named after one of the greatest athletes of all time. The Kobe Bryant sandwich is like a slam dunk for your taste buds — grilled chipotle chicken, three kinds of Colby Jack cheese (because why stop at just one?), avocado, jalapeños, and chipotle mayo all combine to create a spicy, creamy, and cheesy masterpiece. This is a sandwich with attitude, packed with bold flavors and enough heat to get you sweating.
The Kobe Bryant is similar to Quincy Deli's Cajun chicken hero, but with a saucier, spicier edge. The chipotle mayo gives it a smoky, slightly-tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado and the kick from the jalapeños. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're a fan of spicy, saucy sandwiches that leave your mouth tingling, this one's a must-try. Just make sure you've got an extra napkin (or three) on hand.
(718) 243-1165
721 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Carnitas torta at Santiago Deli
Santiago Deli in Manhattanville might not be on everyone's radar, but once you've had its carnitas torta, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. This unassuming bodega hides a handwritten menu of tortas that are far more exciting than the standard cold cuts on display. The carnitas torta is a thing of beauty: tender, slow-cooked carnitas piled high on soft telera bread, slathered with refried black beans and topped with fresh avocado. It's sloppy, delicious, and packed with the kind of flavor that makes you forget about everything else happening around you.
The refried beans add a creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the crispy edges of the carnitas, while the avocado brings a fresh, cool contrast to the rich, savory filling. The telera bread is soft enough to soak up all the juices but still sturdy enough to keep everything (mostly) contained. It's the kind of sandwich you can't eat gracefully, but you won't care — this torta is worth every bit of mess.
(212) 491-0668
3415 Broadway #2, New York, NY 10031
Lemon grilled chicken sandwich at Spring Street Finest Deli
Hudson Square isn't exactly known for its delis, but Spring Street Finest Deli is here to change that. Nestled in a quieter corner of downtown, this spot is a go-to for anyone craving a solid sandwich after a morning run along the West Side Highway. While its BEC deserves an honorable mention, it's the lemon grilled chicken sandwich that steals the show. It's one of the lighter options on this list, but don't let that fool you — it's still packed with flavor.
The lemon-marinated grilled chicken is juicy and tender, with a bright, citrusy tang that makes every bite feel fresh and satisfying. It's paired with just the right amount of sauce to keep things interesting without overwhelming the sandwich, and the whole thing is tucked into a toasted roll that provides a satisfying crunch. It's the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent, making it a great post-workout treat — or just a delicious way to power through your day.
(212) 343-2335
322 Spring St, New York, NY 10031
The Godfather II at 5th Ave. Market & Gourmet Deli
While you're at 5th Ave. Market, you might as well go for round two with The Godfather II. This sandwich is pure Italian-American greatness, with spicy pickled jalapeños, hot coppa, salami, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar that ties everything together. It's bold, spicy, and packed with flavor — basically everything you want in an Italian sandwich. The coppa brings a rich, meaty flavor that's balanced by the heat of the jalapeños, while the salami adds a nice, peppery kick.
The balsamic vinegar adds a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese, making every bite feel balanced and satisfying. It's the kind of sandwich that makes you feel like you've earned it, whether after a long day or just for surviving a particularly rough morning. If you're a fan of Italian meats and bold flavors, The Godfather II is not to be missed.
5thavenuemarketgourmetdeli.com
(718) 230-8050
185 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Crispy chicken Caesar wrap at Village Square Market
West Village's Village Square Market may lean a little more on the bougie side of things, but don't let that stop you from ordering its crispy chicken Caesar wrap. This custom creation is a secret menu item; you'll need to ask for the Caesar wrap with a fried chicken cutlet instead of the grilled chicken. Trust me, it's worth it. The fried chicken is always fresh and crispy, adding a satisfying crunch to the classic Caesar salad flavors.
The wrap is packed with fried chicken, crisp romaine, and plenty of Caesar dressing, making every bite rich and flavorful. The extra dressing on the side is a must because it lets you double down on the creamy, garlicky goodness. It's a simple sandwich, but the textures and flavors come together perfectly, making it one of the most satisfying wraps in the city.
order.store/store/village-square-market-west-village
(212) 989-1125
11 8th Ave, New York, NY 10014
Methodology
As someone who's spent years living and working in NYC, bodega sandwiches aren't just a quick meal — they're a way of life. In my early years as a broke line cook, I practically survived on them. They were affordable, filling, and always available, no matter what time of day or night. Over time, I developed a deep appreciation for the art of the bodega sandwich, and that appreciation has only grown as I've explored different corners of the city.
Most of the sandwiches on this list come from my personal experience eating at these delis, but I also reached out to a few friends in the food industry for recommendations. These are people who know their sandwiches, and their suggestions didn't disappoint. From the simple BEC to the more complex creations like the chicken cordon bleu, each sandwich tells a story about the neighborhood and the people who make it unique. In a city as diverse as New York, the humble bodega sandwich is a great equalizer — everyone's got their favorite, and they're all worth trying.