Bacon Egg and Cheese
The standard New York breakfast sandwich, griddled bacon, egg and American cheese on a roll from a bodega or deli.
Example
The full commuter order is one sentence at the griddle: bacon egg and cheese on a roll, salt pepper ketchup, abbreviated SPK by regulars.
Related terms
NYC slang
Bodega
A corner convenience store found on nearly every NYC block, selling snacks, coffee, sandwiches and household basics...
NYC slang
Regular Coffee
In New York diner and cart language, a coffee with milk and two sugars, not a plain black coffee.
Bagels and delis
Frankel's Delicatessen
A modern Greenpoint deli reviving Jewish appetizing classics, best known for its pastrami egg and cheese.
NYC slang
Schmear
The Yiddish-derived word for the generous layer of cream cheese spread on a bagel at New York bagel shops.
Frequently asked questions
How do I order a bacon egg and cheese correctly?
Say the whole thing fast: bacon egg and cheese on a roll, salt pepper ketchup. Modify only after your first classic one.
Bodega BEC or sit-down brunch?
Both have a place. The BEC wins on speed, price and authenticity. Brunch wins if you want to sit for two hours.
What is the best drink to order with a BEC?
A regular coffee from the same counter, which comes with milk and sugar by default. Ask for it black if you want it plain, since the default is sweet.
