The plight of Punjabi Grocery & Deli on East First Street near Avenue A/East Houston got some
much-needed attention this past summer. The never-ending East Houston Reconstruction Project is killing off the 20-year-old shop's business.
Through the years, cab drivers made up a good chunk of Punjabi's business. The reconstruction, however, has prevented the cabs from being able to stop by for an inexpensive vegetarian meal.
EVG reader Vinny paid a visit yesterday, and shared these photos noting the new configuration of East First Street… (notice you can
no long access First Street from Avenue by motor vehicle)
And to show you where Punjabi is buried in here...
Vinny also noted that Punjabi had to raise its prices across the board by 50 cents to $1 ... still, given the size of the portions, it's still an insanely good deal... and arguably the best around...
And as you may recall, Punjabi started an online petition asking the commissioner of the Taxi And Limousine Commission to approve a taxi relief stand at Avenue A and Houston Street. You can find the petition
here. (It's up to 3,300-plus signatures.)
The East Houston Reconstruction Project is now scheduled
(PDF!) to be completed by mid-2016, according to the latest city estimates.
Here's a look at the new Greenstreets and street configurations at A and Houston...
Previously on EV Grieve:
How you can help Punjabi Grocery & Deli stay in business