Influential TikTok food critic Keith Lee, NYC Food Tour

Keith Lee’s NYC Food Tour and the “Salmon Chopped Cheese” Controversy

Influential TikTok food critic Keith Lee, known for his viral restaurant reviews, recently embarked on a tour of New York City eateries, creating a stir with his unconventional food choices. Lee, with nearly 17 million followers on TikTok and Instagram, gained attention for ordering a “salmon chopped cheese” during his visit to TasteBudz Deli in Queens. The recommendation came from a local, prompting reactions from born-and-bred New Yorkers who were appalled by the unusual twist on the classic New York bodega staple.

Keith Lee’s Ratings and New Yorkers’ Reactions

Keith Lee, along with his family, sampled various items, including a traditional beef chopped cheese, a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, and the controversial salmon chopped cheese. In his review, he rated the dishes, giving the traditional chopped cheese an 8/10, the bacon, egg, and cheese a 4/10, and the salmon chopped cheese a 7.5/10, noting its slightly salty taste. However, many locals expressed their disapproval of the salmon chopped cheese, considering it an unconventional variation.

TasteBudz Deli Embraces the Controversy

Despite the controversy, TasteBudz Deli embraced the attention, declaring itself the “home of the famous ‘salmon chopped cheese'” on its website and social media. The eatery, which opened in September, experienced a surge in business following Keith Lee’s review, with the “2 Smoove” salmon sandwich becoming a popular choice. TasteBudz now receives at least 100 orders of the salmon chopped cheese daily.

The “Keith Lee Effect” and Boost in Business

The unconventional creation, initially crafted as an alternative for one of the co-owners, Daquon Bowers, who stopped eating red meat, has garnered attention beyond the controversy. The “2 Smoove” has attracted customers from various locations, including a woman who traveled from Brooklyn specifically for the unique chopped cheese alternative. The bodega is now part of the “Keith Lee effect,” a phenomenon where Lee’s reviews drive his loyal followers to support highlighted small businesses, particularly Black- or minority-owned establishments, leading to increased sales and visibility for these spots.