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What a honor it was to finally try the OG Chopped Cheese. My cousin and I split the sandwich for a light breakfast before heading to another spot in East Harlem. For ~$9, it was pretty good for a fresh and tasty snack! A woman in the store recalls eating the famous chopped cheese way back in 2002 when it was only $2. I wouldn't go out of my way for this, but if I ever find myself in the area again, I'd happily come here!
THE birthplace of the Chopped Cheese. Here was my experience. AMBIANCE: Parking: You're in NY - Harlem, so street parking is generally tough. You're better off with public transportation. Seating: Not really it's just a grab and go spot. Vibes: Hello Harlem, East Harlem to be exact or aka the Barrio. It's a gritty and soulful neighborhood with a lot of Latin and Black influence. I had to take a subway and a bus to get here but didn't take too long. The place itself seems normal but certainly noticable as they do take pride of being home of the chopped cheese. You're casually welcomed by the cashier and some Mexican music. Inside it's your usual bodega with a mix of food and house supplies. Great for a grab and go FOOD: Chopped Cheese (Recommend) It's the birthplace, why not!?!? Let's begin with the hero (how NY calls a long sandwich roll), soft inside but crunchy. Beef patty is chopped and a good portion of cheese, chopped/griddled onions. Then finally mixed with classic elements of lettuce, tomato, mayo, and ketchup. Overall satisfying, and comforting especially that hero. It can last two meals but it was so good, I finished it in one sitting. CUSTOMER SERVICE: Awesome! Friendly and quick with the service TL; DR OVERALL: 5 Stars. Excellent! Good choices, reasonable prices, and a delicious chopped cheese! Thank goodness to this place for inventing the chopped cheese! I've heard of the ramen burger, cronut, but kind of surprise I never heard of it till now. Props to ma and spots and our immigrants for these brilliant and delicious/accessible inventions! #RepresentASIAN TIPS: * https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gu0v2ITeYU * Between The Ocky Way or OG... I feel you can't compare
This place is a diamond in the rough. You walk in and it's a convenience store with a deli. The door creaks so much, you think that you might actually break the door. It's a small place but they put out the best sandwiches I've had in New York to date. I've never had a pastrami sandwich with lettuce tomato or even melted cheese. It was surprisingly good. The bread choice was phenomenal. Perfectly crunchy French bread and it was a decent sized sandwich. My fiancée had her second roast beef sandwich of our visit and hers came on a a more flat bread. I will definitely give hers a shot next time I come back to Harlem.
Another visit to a legendary New York food stop! Before coming here, I had watched the video online and tried to make chopped cheese at home and I'll say it did turn out pretty good but if you want it done right you have to come to the people that invented it. The first thing I discovered was that I was not using the fresh crispy hero roll that is used here that holds everything together. The first glance the sandwich may look a little small, but don't be deceived...there is plenty to eat inside the two rolls. Hamburger is expertly chopped from pre-shaped patties and when ready the cheese is added, and you can get onions in there too if you want, but I decided not to then the ketchup and mayo goes on either side of the grilled rolls it is filled in with lettuce and tomato Olive oil vinegar, black pepper, and securely wrapped in wax paper and then in a regular sandwich wrapper At this point, all the ingredients have pretty much blended together meeting. You don't have to go searching around the sandwich to get a bite of every ingredient because it's already there and the tomato and lettuce are still fairly in their original state despite being mixed up with the cheese and meat just make sure you eat it right away. Yes, it is a little bit out-of-the-way from most places in New York, but it will be glad you gave it a try. The deli itself has amazing the large and diverse selection of soft drinks as well as all sorts of chips and other salty snacks. I didn't look to see if there was beer and wine there I suppose there probably was, but I wasn't looking for it. Anyway, it's certainly worth a visit and I guess these places become legends on YouTube for a reason.
Chopped cheese on a hero with everything is what we ordered. 3 to be exact!! This place was recommended by a colleague at work and they did not disappoint. The right amount of ketchup and mayo without making a mess. The right combination of hamburger meat, cheese, lettuce and tomato to make one fantastic creation. Chefs kiss!! Place your order at the counter near the door you enter/exit! It'll take about 10-15 minutes to prepare. Loved it!
Got a chop cheese hero with everything. I came here because of a food critic that said it's "the best chop cheese". It is DEFINITELY NOT, not even close. It barely had seasoning and small amount of meat. You taste more of the lettuce and tomato, than meat. Save yourself the money and go to another deli for a chopped cheese.
Apparently this is the place where the famous chopped cheese was made and it did not disappoint. Fantastic sandwich.
Hubs and I came for the infamous chopped cheese and my oh my was it worth it. It's essentially a chopped up cheeseburger inside a sandwich roll, pressed and slightly toasted. The chopped ingredients muddle well together creating a creamy texture which just works with the fresh crunchy lettuce. Typing this makes me want one right now. It's roughly $7, takes around 15 minutes to make upon getting the order, and there is no seating indoor or outdoor which is a slight bummer.
This was my first chopped cheese and I think it will spoil all the other ones (it's the OG, right?). Seriously, I fantasize about this chopped cheese. That's how good it was. I've told all my friends in California about it. The flavors just meld together so perfectly and the ketchup really makes it with the umami acidity. You MUST TRY!
I am a first-time trier of the NYC rapper-hyped Chopped Cheese sandwich and did not like the one made here, where it was created many years ago by a now-deceased chef. The sandwich is made with American cheese, and the quality of the ground beef is low grade. No wonder it only cost $7.50. I had the sandwich on a hero with everything on it, including lettuce, tomatoes, onions, peppers, mayonnaise and ketchup. It tasted like a creamy Wendy's cheeseburger. I have had better "creamy cheeseburgers" in pubs, taverns, diners and bars, just several miles away in Lower Manhattan. The chefs in those burger joints are likely using higher quality ground beef. I do not recommend Chopped Cheese for cheeseburger lovers who prefer prime grade beef or for those like myself who are too Bougie for a bodega-made creamy cheeseburger. I would rather go to Wendy's, where I can sit down and eat.
The home of the Chopped Cheese. The famous Haiji's where it was created. Seen this place so many times in videos. And finally got to try it out myself. I've had chopped cheese sandwiches before but the original is just too good. Made on a sesame bread roll. filled with ground beef, cheese, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, ketchup, and mayo. Pressed like a panini to give it that crisp crunch. Located inside of the deli where you can pick up bottles of soft drinks and other convenience store items. This is a great sandwich and glad that it's getting the love it deserves. Comfort food at it's finest Recommendation: The original chopped cheese sandwich
This place has been on my radar for some time now, and I finally got around to trying it. Super impressed, loved the chopped cheese. Easily the best version of it I've had; the sandwich stayed together so well, and the sauce was amazing. Will absolutely be back! read more
Every bodega has chopped cheese, but this is the one where it originates from. Although it's located in Harlem, which is quite the trek. I finally found myself in the neighborhood and had to stop by for the iconic chopped cheese. You order at the register and then you can browse the store for a drink or snacks. In about 5 minutes, my chopped cheese ($8) was ready. Also got myself an Arizona iced tea ($1) to pair with this. The chopped cheese is solid and fairly priced, but doesn't stand out from anywhere else. I like the sauces that meshed well with the cheese and beef. Great 24/7 option when in the area, but I wouldn't go out of my way to come here. read more
What a honor it was to finally try the OG Chopped Cheese. My cousin and I split the sandwich for a light breakfast before heading to another spot in East Harlem. For ~$9, it was pretty good for a fresh and tasty snack! A woman in the store recalls eating the famous chopped cheese way back in 2002 when it was only $2. I wouldn't go out of my way for this, but if I ever find myself in the area again, I'd happily come here! read more
THE birthplace of the Chopped Cheese. Here was my experience. AMBIANCE: Parking: You're in NY - Harlem, so street parking is generally tough. You're better off with public transportation. Seating: Not really it's just a grab and go spot. Vibes: Hello Harlem, East Harlem to be exact or aka the Barrio. It's a gritty and soulful neighborhood with a lot of Latin and Black influence. I had to take a subway and a bus to get here but didn't take too long. The place itself seems normal but certainly noticable as they do take pride of being home of the chopped cheese. You're casually welcomed by the cashier and some Mexican music. Inside it's your usual bodega with a mix of food and house supplies. Great for a grab and go FOOD: Chopped Cheese (Recommend) It's the birthplace, why not!?!? Let's begin with the hero (how NY calls a long sandwich roll), soft inside but crunchy. Beef patty is chopped and a good portion of cheese, chopped/griddled onions. Then finally mixed with classic elements of lettuce, tomato, mayo, and ketchup. Overall satisfying, and comforting especially that hero. It can last two meals but it was so good, I finished it in one sitting. CUSTOMER SERVICE: Awesome! Friendly and quick with the service TL; DR OVERALL: 5 Stars. Excellent! Good choices, reasonable prices, and a delicious chopped cheese! Thank goodness to this place for inventing the chopped cheese! I've heard of the ramen burger, cronut, but kind of surprise I never heard of it till now. Props to ma and spots and our immigrants for these brilliant and delicious/accessible inventions! #RepresentASIAN TIPS: * https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gu0v2ITeYU * Between The Ocky Way or OG... I feel you can't compare read more
This place is a diamond in the rough. You walk in and it's a convenience store with a deli. The door creaks so much, you think that you might actually break the door. It's a small place but they put out the best sandwiches I've had in New York to date. I've never had a pastrami sandwich with lettuce tomato or even melted cheese. It was surprisingly good. The bread choice was phenomenal. Perfectly crunchy French bread and it was a decent sized sandwich. My fiancée had her second roast beef sandwich of our visit and hers came on a a more flat bread. I will definitely give hers a shot next time I come back to Harlem. read more
1 year ago
Another visit to a legendary New York food stop! Before coming here, I had watched the video online and tried to make chopped cheese at home and I'll say it did turn out pretty good but if you want it done right you have to come to the people that invented it. The first thing I discovered was that I was not using the fresh crispy hero roll that is used here that holds everything together. The first glance the sandwich may look a little small, but don't be deceived...there is plenty to eat inside the two rolls. Hamburger is expertly chopped from pre-shaped patties and when ready the cheese is added, and you can get onions in there too if you want, but I decided not to then the ketchup and mayo goes on either side of the grilled rolls it is filled in with lettuce and tomato Olive oil vinegar, black pepper, and securely wrapped in wax paper and then in a regular sandwich wrapper At this point, all the ingredients have pretty much blended together meeting. You don't have to go searching around the sandwich to get a bite of every ingredient because it's already there and the tomato and lettuce are still fairly in their original state despite being mixed up with the cheese and meat just make sure you eat it right away. Yes, it is a little bit out-of-the-way from most places in New York, but it will be glad you gave it a try. The deli itself has amazing the large and diverse selection of soft drinks as well as all sorts of chips and other salty snacks. I didn't look to see if there was beer and wine there I suppose there probably was, but I wasn't looking for it. Anyway, it's certainly worth a visit and I guess these places become legends on YouTube for a reason. read more
Chopped cheese on a hero with everything is what we ordered. 3 to be exact!! This place was recommended by a colleague at work and they did not disappoint. The right amount of ketchup and mayo without making a mess. The right combination of hamburger meat, cheese, lettuce and tomato to make one fantastic creation. Chefs kiss!! Place your order at the counter near the door you enter/exit! It'll take about 10-15 minutes to prepare. Loved it! read more
11 months ago
1 year ago
Got a chop cheese hero with everything. I came here because of a food critic that said it's "the best chop cheese". It is DEFINITELY NOT, not even close. It barely had seasoning and small amount of meat. You taste more of the lettuce and tomato, than meat. Save yourself the money and go to another deli for a chopped cheese. read more
1 year ago
Apparently this is the place where the famous chopped cheese was made and it did not disappoint. Fantastic sandwich. read more
Hubs and I came for the infamous chopped cheese and my oh my was it worth it. It's essentially a chopped up cheeseburger inside a sandwich roll, pressed and slightly toasted. The chopped ingredients muddle well together creating a creamy texture which just works with the fresh crunchy lettuce. Typing this makes me want one right now. It's roughly $7, takes around 15 minutes to make upon getting the order, and there is no seating indoor or outdoor which is a slight bummer. read more
2 years ago
This was my first chopped cheese and I think it will spoil all the other ones (it's the OG, right?). Seriously, I fantasize about this chopped cheese. That's how good it was. I've told all my friends in California about it. The flavors just meld together so perfectly and the ketchup really makes it with the umami acidity. You MUST TRY! read more
I am a first-time trier of the NYC rapper-hyped Chopped Cheese sandwich and did not like the one made here, where it was created many years ago by a now-deceased chef. The sandwich is made with American cheese, and the quality of the ground beef is low grade. No wonder it only cost $7.50. I had the sandwich on a hero with everything on it, including lettuce, tomatoes, onions, peppers, mayonnaise and ketchup. It tasted like a creamy Wendy's cheeseburger. I have had better "creamy cheeseburgers" in pubs, taverns, diners and bars, just several miles away in Lower Manhattan. The chefs in those burger joints are likely using higher quality ground beef. I do not recommend Chopped Cheese for cheeseburger lovers who prefer prime grade beef or for those like myself who are too Bougie for a bodega-made creamy cheeseburger. I would rather go to Wendy's, where I can sit down and eat. read more
2 years ago
Frankie Frank The Legend! Chop Cheese I went to 25 food stops in five days the chop cheese was tied for number 1! This is Dave from Los Angeles, CA Go Folks Go!!! read more
The home of the Chopped Cheese. The famous Haiji's where it was created. Seen this place so many times in videos. And finally got to try it out myself. I've had chopped cheese sandwiches before but the original is just too good. Made on a sesame bread roll. filled with ground beef, cheese, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, ketchup, and mayo. Pressed like a panini to give it that crisp crunch. Located inside of the deli where you can pick up bottles of soft drinks and other convenience store items. This is a great sandwich and glad that it's getting the love it deserves. Comfort food at it's finest Recommendation: The original chopped cheese sandwich read more
1 year ago
6 months ago
Everyone knows about NYC pizza but a hidden secret among locals is the chopped cheese. If you don't know what it is, it's essentially a beef patty chopped up with cheese (where it gets its name) put on a hero roll with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Some people will say it's "NYC's answer to the Philly cheesesteak" which it's not but they are similar. This deli was previously named Hajji's and they invented the chopped cheese. I've seen many videos about the chopped cheese and this place in particular and I wanted to try it out myself. It's a small deli that is also a grocery store and is open 24/7 which makes for a great late night drunchies spot. I ordered the chopped cheese with everything ($7) which was deliciously salty and hit the right senses. The secret is the seasoning in the meat which makes it so mouthwatering. There's nowhere for you to sit and eat as it's more of a grab-and-go spot. This invention sparked bodegas across New York to also have chopped cheeses on their menus but nothing beats the originator. read more
8 months ago
1 year ago
9 months ago
1 year ago
lololol second time here and we walked AGAIN. i can't believe i took a day off just to walk to get a chopped cheese sub. but i think it was a nice introduction to nyc cuz we just yapped and walked. anyways i wasn't tweaking out i took my friend here and they were like omg this IS in-n-out dupe. like holy it tastes exactly like in-n-out. it does take a bit to actually get cuz it's pretty famous but honestly it's worth. but yk what isn't worth??? the walk. it's literally 2 miles from campus and there's NO transit going there. so usually it's my little treat after a run. but i see myself going here again maybe possibly but just not anytime soon. but if you ever crave in-n-out a lot and you're on the east coast lowkey this is the next best thing. 5 stars! read more
4 years ago
Chopped cheese was born here at Blue Sky Deli (formerly Hajji's) and I made it a mission to make the trek to Harlem to grab me one of these bad boys. Not only do you get the quintessential New York bodega experience but you also get to enjoy of the most celebrated New York sandwiches. I have been dreaming about going to Hajji's and getting myself a chopped cheese for a very long time and I'm so glad that it met my expectation! For only $6 (what a steal) you get your chopped cheese served on a hero roll and it comes with ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and some mayo. It basically is a deconstructed burger in in terms of flavor and presentation but on a hero roll. If only I could have this version everyday then I would die a happy customer. I think most people will find the flavors very familiar, but presented on a different vessel and chopped up make this a NY must. read more
Ordered: Chopped cheese with everything on it (lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup, and mayo) on hero (~$6) 2 small Arizonas (~$1): Watermelon & Mucho Mango flavors Aya's take: Are you even a real New Yorker if you don't go to Hajji's!? Had to check out the OG chopped cheese and it did not disappoint. Bomb sandwich and great price. Everyone knows a chopped cheese is the NYC staple so make sure your order rolls off your tongue when you get to the register. read more
I heard about this spot and the famous Chopped Cheese sandwich (NYC's cheesesteak) and had to try it out. Blue Sky is part deli/part Bodega with takeout for the sandwiches. Arrived around 9 on a Friday night and surprisingly they weren't busy. I'm thinking this is an "after the bar" spot as they are open 24 hours. Placed my Chopped Cheese order with Provolone cheese (usually comes with American), bacon, fried onions, LT and Vinegar. This isn't an over stuffed Sub/Sandwich and that's okay. Seasoned Ground beef was grilled to order and the bread was fresh. Just right beef to bread ratio and onions, peppers, vinegar made for a delicious sandwich. Somehow it wasn't heavy-possibly due to the balance of ingredients? Friendly and upbeat gentleman took my order. Based on hearing the order after me, clear this is a neighborhood favorite and all have their own combination of favorite condiments and prep of their Chopped Cheese. If in Harlem, don't miss this NYC gem & original sandwich! read more
11 months ago
6 years ago
You know their chopped cheese is good when I'm willing to drive from Long Island to Harlem for some. I had a craving for it again since the last time I've tried it so I went this morning. There was absolutely no traffic and I arrived here at around 8:30 am, which is when the cook coincidentally starts his day. Parking is a nightmare so I decided to just double park in front, run in and order the food. It took about 15 minutes to make. This would be considered a hole in the wall deli but the service was professional and friendly. I bought 3 chopped cheese sandwiches for only $18, which is a very reasonable price point. Even after I drove home to eat it, the sandwiches were still crispy. The chopped cheese had the perfect balance of beef, vegetables and sauces. This can be considered New York's Philly cheesesteak. I'll definitely be back again whenever the craving arises. read more
2 years ago
One of my top foods to try in NY was a chopped cheese and I can say that this is definitely worth it. I got my chopped cheese on a Euro and that toasty bread with the cheese. Everything I dreamed it would be. Service was great and there was no line. Would come again! read more
Blue Star Deli is the original chop cheese ($8-9). Definitely correct me if I'm wrong. Bubs & I ubered to Blue Star on a whim. The ride was about 15-20 minutes. Cook time was less than 15 minutes. I would've called ahead for pick up had I known that was an option (definitely do this because you'll reek of onions as you wait). We shared the sandwich back in Korea Town and let me just tell you.. The chop cheese is a simple explosion of flavors that's unexpected. Because you think it's just a sandwich but it isn't. I don't have the words to describe just how delicious. Is it the way they build the sandwich? The Mayo on tomato then cheesy beefy goodness?? What is it about NYC bread that just hits? There's a light sprinkling of sesame seeds. the bread just holds it own against the filling. It doesn't soak up the flavors, it doesn't get soggy. The texture, the chew.. omg. Bubs thought I was only going to take a bite. I demolished the whole half. So we had to get it a 2nd time! We added it as a stop otw to the airport (only 15m from LGA). I can def see this being a NYC tradition. read more
3 years ago
Chopped Cheese is off the Richter Scale This place is known for it and boy is it worth it. read more
6 years ago
Philadelphia has the Cheesesteak, New Jersey has the Pork Roll (or Taylor Ham), and New York City has the Chopped Cheese. Believe it or not, until just a half hour ago, I had never had one of these sandwiches, and already I am craving another. Sort of like a cross between a cheesesteak and minced cheeseburger, Chopped Cheese is unique to New York. Served on a hero roll, the meat is seasoned and served with cheese and your choice of toppings. I am pretty easy, just lettuce and tomato for me. It tastes delicious. At first the associate was reluctant to make me a Chopped Cheese at 6:30 in the morning, but his coworker was willing to do it, so he allowed it. I was happy for that, as I did not want my trip to Harlem for this savory sandwich to be a bust. And a bust it was not. Get yourself on the 6 train to 110th street and walk the 15 minute walk over to First Avenue and enjoy. At the prices they charge, get two. You might want to save one for later. Or if you really want to, eat two on the spot, no judgement from me. read more
This deli has a few names. Blue Sky, Harlem Taste, Hajji's. Apparently, they are the originator of the chopped cheese sandwich. I've never even heard of this sandwich until my brother-in-law told me about it a while back. After that, I found a deli in the Flat Iron district that served it, which was pretty good. I mean - ground beef, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and ketchup? It's like a cross between a cheeseburger and a Philly cheesesteak. What's not to love? Fast forward about a year or so, on a road trip to Maine. Our route required crossing the GWB from Jersey so I thought - what better time to try the original sandwich, since I'm never in the Bronx? Even if it was at 8 AM in the morning? It was pretty good but it was messy, so it's definitely not a car food, and definitely not something you should eat while driving. I found a hair during one of my last bites but to be honest, at a deli like this, I was kind of expecting it. I'm just thankful it wasn't one of my first bites and that the hair didn't end up in my mouth. My only regret was getting one whole sandwich each between me and my fiance. It was oily and heavy, no matter what time of day you're eating it. Is it worth going out of your way just to try it? Definitely not. You're better off going to that Flat Iron deli or making it yourself at home. That way, if there's a hair in it, at least you know where it's coming from. Tip - call ahead to place your order. Even when we went at 8 AM on a Sunday, the guy said it was a good thing we called ahead because it was getting busy already. read more
2 years ago
Got the chop cheese with everything on hero. It was pretty good, would definitely get it again. Bread was light and crispy. Condiment was tasty. Tomato was a nice touch. Only $8 but no where to eat it. Went down the street to eat it. They do accept credit card. Supposedly cardi bs favorite place to get chop cheese read more
Finally got to try an infamous chopped cheese from what was formerly known as Hajji's in Harlem. It was pretty good, reminded me of a loose burger from a regular diner. Either way, it served its purpose, coating my stomach before drinking! :) read more
I never had a chopped cheese before and my friend brought me one from blue sky with everything plus roast beef. At first glance it seemed huge so we split the first one. The bread was crispy and delicious. The meats mixed with the wilted veggies, and the mayo with the melted cheese created a tasty sauce. Adding the roast beef gives it texture and a slight beefy flavor. Overall the sandwich was on the salty side but delicious. The bread makes me want to try other sandwiches. read more
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Ask the Community - Blue Sky Deli
Do they have a vegan version of the chopped cheese?
Is the chopped cheese served 24 hours as well?
Yes and no. They should, but it depends on who is working the grill.
Is the chopped cheese sandwich cash only?
I believe they take debit/credit if you're buying $10 or more.
