If the grocery store is the new nightclub these are my favorite dive bars
As we approach the one year anniversary of stay at home orders and everyone is seemingly taking time to reflect and grapple with the unknown long-lasting societal effects of the ongoing damn Panini (yes, I will be referring to it in Gen Z terms), I thought it would be rude if I didn’t join in on a particular part of the conversation I’m enjoying …“the grocery store is the new nightclub”.
As a Queens resident, the first month or so we were in the Pan Dulce was somber, to say the least. No one knew anything. A trip to the grocery store meant suiting up for battle. Gloves, masks, glasses, and Purell locked and loaded ready to fire off at any unsuspecting droplets. Instead of my usual musings, my mind was cluttered with questions I had never pondered before. Should I invest in a bidet? Yes, because toilet paper is now harder to get than a limited Supreme drop. Do I need to Lysol my groceries? Don’t know, but doesn’t matter because it’s sold out everywhere.
Soon the weird apocalyptic zone we existed in became the norm and the grocery store continued to be THE space to plan all at-home events around. And so whilst everyone is reflecting on their newfound Panna Cotta - induced appreciation for the grocer store, I thought it would be rude if I didn’t join in with some of my favorites.
For Williamsburg residents, this recommendation will come as no surprise. Depanneur is not your average grocery store. This isn’t the place you’d go for a big haul but rather select artisanal goods or a mean elevated sandwich.
Opened last year, Edy’s Grocer in Greenpoint is a new fan favorite. Offering a range of Lebanese grocery and deli items, you’re sure to scoop up some unique goodies curated by the founder (who also happens to be a private chef).
As a former Bushwick resident, I have spent many weekends sipping coffee and eating -just the tip- of a fresh baguette from Foster Sundry . Cafe socializers be warned… it’s very much a get your shit and get moving type joint. Don’t expect to have a meaningful exchange with the staff but do expect to enjoy consuming whatever you purchase.
Plant-based consumers, you already know what Orchard Grocer is all about. For those who don’t, it’s a fully vegan grocery shop located in the Lower East Side. They specialize in bomb vegan sandwiches and snacks. Be sure to check out the seasonal soft-serve special.
Short and sweet, Pop Up Grocer offered Brooklyn residents a bit of excitement this past Autumn for a one-month installation in Williamsburg. Showcasing hundreds of innovative products from emerging brands, PUG created a bright immersive experience for Panatela-weary consumers to discover new favorites. My PUG favorites here include the Something & Nothing yuzu seltzer and Taika Macadamia Latte.
Honorable mentions in the cafe grocer hybrid include L'imprimerie, Porcelain, Rolos, and Sunrise / Sunset.
