Brooklyn Bodegas and Mister Softee Adapt as NYC Temperatures Soar

• NYC saw its hottest July day since 2010 on July 5, 2024.
• More than 13,000 bodegas operate across the five boroughs.
• Over 200 licensed ice cream trucks circulate in NYC each summer.

Heatwaves are a fact of life in New York City, but July 2024 has tested the endurance of every corner store and street vendor. For the city’s 13,000-plus bodegas, survival during the dog days isn’t just about air-conditioning—it’s about adapting to shifting demand, unpredictable supply chains, and the cravings of a city that never slows down. “When the temperature tops 95, water and Gatorade are gone before noon,” says Luis Martinez, whose family’s bodega has anchored a corner of Flatbush for 28 years.

Ice cream carts and the inimitable Mister Softee trucks, a summer staple for generations, are feeling the squeeze too. According to the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, there are now more than 200 licensed ice cream vendors in the city. Competition is fierce—not only from fellow vendors, but also from corporate delivery apps and the proliferation of chain stores. On a recent sweltering afternoon on 86th Street, vendor Anita Singh found herself racing to restock her best-sellers while fielding a constant stream of Venmo payments from overheated commuters.

Adapting to extreme heat means getting creative. In Jackson Heights, bodega owner Rafael Mendoza replaced half his snack racks with refrigerated grab-and-go fruit, while some ice cream truck operators have expanded their menus to include dairy-free and international options, from paletas to kulfi. “When the mercury rises, everyone wants something cold, but not always the same thing,” explains Mendoza.

Yet, both bodegas and carts face mounting costs: electricity bills balloon with extra refrigeration, and street vendors must often pay premium prices for ice, dry ice, and fuel. City agencies have issued heat advisories, and some neighborhoods—especially those with older infrastructure—risk power outages. For many local business owners, resilience is a matter of ingenuity, grit, and a little New York swagger. As Martinez puts it, “It’s not just about selling; it’s about being here for the neighborhood, no matter how hot it gets.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How do NYC bodegas prepare for extreme heat?

Bodegas stockpile cold drinks, ice, and snacks, often installing extra refrigeration during summer. Owners may adjust inventory to prioritize water, sports drinks, and fresh fruit. Some extend their hours to meet the heightened demand from overheated customers. Preparation also includes monitoring energy use to avoid outages.

What challenges do ice cream carts face during a heatwave?

Ice cream vendors struggle with storing enough ice or dry ice, keeping products from melting, and contending with higher fuel and permit costs. Increased demand means frequent restocking and longer hours. The competition from delivery apps and chain stores adds pressure, while heat advisories and power outages can disrupt business.

Are there unique summer treats specific to NYC bodegas and ice cream carts?

Yes, NYC bodegas offer culturally diverse cold snacks—like tamarind juice, coconut water, and Dominican helados. Ice cream carts have begun serving paletas, Italian ices, and international frozen desserts alongside classics like soft serve and popsicles. Local favorites vary by neighborhood, reflecting the city’s diversity.