🚕 Hepatitis A Exposure in Chelsea

Good Morning NY!

This week, we’re looking at some big shifts in NYC’s food scene.

A pizza pioneer who helped shape the city’s slice culture has passed, while outdoor dining sheds are stirring up fresh safety concerns.

Bodegas are finding creative ways to keep eggs affordable, and a giant soup dumpling is making waves in Tribeca.

Plus, a potential health scare at a popular Manhattan restaurant has officials urging diners to take precautions.

Let’s dive in.

Chelsea Market + Hudson Yards Food & History Tour

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NYC Pizza Pioneer Patsy Grimaldi Passes Away at 93

Patsy Grimaldi, the legendary figure behind New York City's coal-fired, brick-oven pizza movement, passed away at the age of 93.

Raised in the Bronx, Grimaldi began his journey in the pizza industry at the age of 10, working at his uncle Patsy Lancieri's renowned East Harlem pizzeria.

After serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, he continued his passion for pizza-making. In 1990, Grimaldi opened his own establishment, originally named "Patsy's Pizzeria," at 19 Old Fulton St. in DUMBO, Brooklyn.

He commissioned the first coal oven built in New York City in over five decades to replicate traditional pizza-making methods.

Due to a legal dispute over the name, he rebranded the restaurant as "Grimaldi's" in 1995.

After selling the business in 1999, Grimaldi returned from retirement in 2012 to open "Juliana's" at the original location, honoring his mother's name.

He is remembered for his unwavering dedication to authentic pizza-making and his significant influence on New York City's culinary scene.

Grimaldi is survived by his daughter, grandson, and younger sister.

Outdoor Dining Sheds Spark Safety Concerns

Following up on our story from last week, we are all aware that New York City's outdoor dining sheds are slated for a comeback on April 1, 2025.

However, this revival has ignited significant debate among residents and officials, particularly concerning fire safety.

Many eateries in areas like the West Village, Soho, and Little Italy are seeking fire-safety waivers to reinstall these structures on narrow streets, potentially obstructing essential 15-foot-wide fire lanes.

The Fire Department has expressed reservations but is granting waivers on a case-by-case basis.

Community members, including the West Village Residents Association, have voiced concerns, emphasizing the inherent dangers these sheds pose by potentially hindering emergency response times.

Approximately 1,400 restaurants have reapplied for shed permits, with many expected to receive approval.

Critics argue that, beyond safety issues, these sheds have previously contributed to urban blight, attracting vermin and illicit activities.

As the city moves forward with the Dining Out NYC program, balancing economic support for the hospitality industry with public safety and community quality of life remains a contentious challenge.

NYC Bodegas Sell 'Loosie' Eggs Amid Price Surge

New York City bodegas are now selling individual eggs, or "loosie" eggs, as the price of cartons has soared due to a bird flu outbreak.

Fernando Rodriguez, owner of Pamela's Green Deli in the Bronx, offers three large eggs in a plastic bag for $2.99, responding to customers who can't afford $10.99 for a full carton.

This practice mirrors egg sales in Rodriguez's native country of the Dominican Republic, aiming to make eggs more accessible to low-income patrons.

Other bodegas are adopting similar strategies to support their communities. While selling single eggs may raise legal questions, bodega owners prioritize customer needs.

The bird flu has led to the culling of approximately 115 million hens over two years, causing egg prices to spike by over 15% in January.

This situation has prompted creative solutions to ensure affordability for essential food items.

Bustronome: Gourmet Dining on Wheels

Looking for a unique way to experience NYC? Bustronome combines elevated dining with stunning city views, all from a luxurious glass-roofed bus.

Indulge in a multi-course French meal while gliding past iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Times Square—no reservations, no waiting, just a seamless fine dining experience with a view.

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Giant Soup Dumplings Make a Splash in Tribeca

Upon The Palace, a Chinese restaurant in Tribeca has introduced a one-of-a-kind culinary offering: a giant tang bao soup dumpling comparable in size to a person's face.

Weighing 6 ounces and measuring 5 inches in diameter, this oversized dumpling is filled with a savory blend of pork bone broth, crab, and pork meat and is priced at $15.

Initially launched as a Lunar New Year special, the tang bao's popularity has led the restaurant to extend its availability.

Since its debut on January 22, Upon The Palace has sold over 100 of these giant dumplings, often selling out within an hour of service.

Diners eager to sample this unique dish have been preordering to ensure availability.

Traditionally, tang bao is enjoyed by sipping the broth through a straw before consuming the dumpling itself.

Upon The Palace, which opened in late 2024 after a multimillion-dollar renovation, draws inspiration from the historic Epang Palace in Xi'an, China, aiming to offer New Yorkers an authentic and immersive dining experience.

Possible hepatitis A exposure at Manhattan restaurant

The New York City Health Department has issued a warning regarding potential hepatitis A exposure at ilili Restaurant, located at 236 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan.

A food handler at the establishment tested positive for the virus, prompting health officials to advise patrons who dined or ordered takeout from January 31 to February 9 to receive a hepatitis A vaccination if they haven't been previously vaccinated.

Additionally, those who consumed food from ilili between January 17 and February 9 should monitor for symptoms, which include yellowing of the eyes and skin, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea.

Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse emphasized the importance of vaccination and proper hygiene to prevent the spread of the disease.

In response, ilili Restaurant has conducted thorough cleanings and is collaborating closely with health authorities.

No further cases have been linked to the establishment as of now.

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