Raphael Gourmet Deli

I went here today for breakfast sandwiches. I ordered two ham, egg, and cheeses on a roll for $ 6.50. The man behind the counter was friendly. He made the sandwiches pretty quickly, probably around 5 minutes. While he was making them, I strolled around the store. Everything was clean, neat, and labeled. In addition, I was surprised to see that they serve bubble tea. However, I’m a little reluctant to try it. Overall, I would come here again.

My earlier disdain for this deli was going through my mind when I found myself here again while strolling along Greenpoint Ave. It’s been under new management for a little more than a year, have things changed that much? In a word, yes.
For people who didn’t see the initial disaster that was here prior will just see it as a regular bodega. For those of us who are familiar with these parts, one will notice the cleaner floors, the organized aisles, proper labeling, and friendlier service. Yes, it’s still reasonably dead at all hours, but it is one of the few places people can turn to that is open as late as midnight.
What’s more? They serve bubble tea now. Sure, it’s probably powdered and the boba quality is nothing next to nearby Kung Fu Tea (
) but there is always hope.
I still can’t bring myself to try their deli sammies. Maybe one day when I’m feeling brave or completely smashed.