Skip to main content

Blue Sky Deli (Hajji's)
$ · Sandwiches

2135 1st Ave, New York, NY 10029
Are you the owner? Claim this business

ZipPicks Awards

Best Cheap Eats in East Harlem Best Sandwiches in East Harlem

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Blue Sky Deli (Hajji's) 8.6
East Harlem
Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Late Night Legends Quick Bites Champions Hidden Gems Heaven
Corner bodega credited as the birthplace of the chopped cheese, running 24 hours with a flat-top constantly turning out hot heroes. It’s the move when you want a loaded chopped cheese in its original East Harlem context rather than a dressed-up remake downtown.
Must-Try Dishes: Chopped Cheese Sandwich, Chopped Cheese Hero, Roast Beef Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.6 Service: 8 Consistency: 8.5 Food Quality: 8.7 Atmosphere: 6.2 Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: A 24-hour East Harlem bodega widely regarded as the original chopped cheese counter.
Who should go: Sandwich hunters chasing the classic chopped cheese experience
When to visit: Late night or off-peak hours to avoid grill congestion
What to order: Chopped cheese on a hero, chopped cheese on a roll, roast beef sandwich
Insider tip: Order your chopped cheese “with everything” and eat it immediately—these sandwiches are best while the roll is still warm and crisp.