Brooklyn Proud | Edy’s Grocer

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable, goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home, and where Broadway Stages operates. We begin our series in our beloved Brooklyn. The local shops that line our streets, providing a livelihood for our neighbors, family, and friends. Join us as we journey throughout Brooklyn and get to know the people and businesses that make our community home. Today, we take a look at a Middle Eastern culinary gem in Greenpoint, Edy’s Grocer.

Edy's Grocer has emerged as a culinary gem since opening in Greenpoint in 2020, bringing the vibrant flavors of Lebanon to North Brooklyn. Edy's has quickly become a beloved Lebanese market and deli, offering a wide array of imported groceries, homemade delights, and a modern twist on Lebanese cuisine.

But the story begins in Lebanon’s northern region where Chef Edouard (Edy) Massih was born and raised. Influenced by his grandmother Odette's culinary wisdom, Massih embarked on a mission to recreate the distinct essence of Lebanese food while infusing it with a modern touch. Chef Edy's journey led him to the United States and in 2014, he landed in to Greenpoint. Here he opened a catering company, finding joy in bringing the flavors of Lebanon to his new community.  It was here that Edy also found friendship, support, and inspiration from Maria Puk, the founder of the beloved Maria’s Deli that she opened in 1978.  Edy was a regular of the deli, and became close friends with Puk.  With a shared love for food, and close bond, they even talked about Massih  taking over the business one day. And then it happened - just like that!  The pandemic hit, Puk decided to move to Pennsylvania, sold her deli to Massih, and Maria’s Deli became Edy’s Grocer, an inviting and joyful shop and deli.

Massih’s passion to bring his culinary Middle Eastern creations and ingredients to kitchens across the community, went into overdrive. Edy's Grocer stands as a testament to his commitment to making Middle Eastern ingredients readily available. With a carefully curated selection of imported spices, oils, pickled goods, jams, and sweets, customers can embark on their own culinary adventures, exploring the rich tapestry of flavors that Lebanese cuisine offers.                                                                    

Beyond the shelves, adorned in shades of pink and green, Edy's Grocer entices visitors with a monthly rotating menu that showcases Chef Edy's creative twists on modern Lebanese cuisine. Indulge in an assortment of house-made mezze and cheeses, baked goods, man'oushe, seasonal salads, and sandwiches. The shop has become more than just a purveyor of delicious food; it has woven itself into the fabric of the Greenpoint community, positively impacting the local economy. As the neighborhood's first Lebanese market and deli, the store has attracted locals and visitors alike, becoming a gathering place where diverse cultures converge. Edy's Grocer fosters a sense of community by creating a shared space where people can connect over good food, breaking down barriers and forging lasting relationships.

Edy's Grocer stands as a testament to Chef Edy's passion for Lebanese cuisine, his dedication to preserving his cultural heritage, and his mission to bring people together through thoughtful and delicious food. From its beginnings as Maria's Deli to its transformation into Edy's Grocer, this establishment has become a beacon of culinary excellence in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Whether you are seeking unique Middle Eastern ingredients or a wonderful dining experience, Edy's Grocer invites you to embark on a culinary journey to Lebanon right in the heart of Brooklyn!