So, How Many Salvadorans Does it Take to Tango in New York? (Spoiler Alert: It's a Lot)
Ever wondered if your bodega guy on the corner might be serving up pupusas on the side? Or maybe you're planning a killer salsa night and need the perfect playlist? Well, then you're probably curious about how many Salvadorans live in the Big Apple! Buckle up, because we're about to salsa our way into that answer.
The Great Salvadoran Migration
El Salvador might be a small country, but its people have a giant spirit for adventure (and maybe escaping the occasional earthquake). That's why so many Salvadorans have made New York City their home. From escaping civil wars to chasing dreams bigger than a Central American skyscraper, they've been pouring into the city for decades.
Just How Many Are We Talking About?
This is where things get a little spicy (like a habanero-infused salsa). The latest census says there are around 198,238 Salvadoran-Americans living in New York. That's almost enough people to fill Yankee Stadium... twice! That's a whole lot of lémpiras being sent home, folks!
Where's the Salvadoran Fiesta At?
If you're looking to get your fill of Salvadoran culture, head over to neighborhoods like Corona, Sunset Park, and Jamaica, Queens. These vibrant areas are bursting with Salvadoran restaurants serving up the good stuff (pupusas, we're looking at you!), shops with all the Central American goodies you could ever need, and the friendliest folks this side of the equator.
Fun Fact: Salvadorans Might Be Taking Over the NYC Coffee Scene
Salvadoran coffee is legendary, and it seems New Yorkers are catching on. More and more Salvadoran-owned coffee shops are popping up, serving up brews that will wake you up faster than a salsa beat.
How to Salvadoran in New York: A Crash Course
So you've gotten a taste of Salvadoran life in New York and want to dive deeper? Here's a quick guide:
How to say "hello" in Salvadoran Spanish: Hola (pronounced Oh-la)
How to order a pupusa: Point and say "pupusa de queso, por favor" (cheese pupusa, please)
How to find the best Salvadoran coffee: Follow your nose and the sound of lively chatter!
How to dance salsa like a Salvadoran: Confidence is key! Shake those hips and don't be afraid to shimmy.
How to become BFFs with a Salvadoran: Learn a few basic Spanish phrases, compliment their pupusa-making skills, and be prepared to be welcomed with open arms.
