AFFORDABLE EATS: THIS N.J.POLISH DELI IS A TRUE HIDDEN GEM

AFFORDABLE EATS:

- BY KARIM SHAMSI-BASHA

I'm not too familiar with Polish food, or Eastern European for that matter. I've had it, but never to the extent of exploring the intricacies and various aspects of the cuisine.

To redeem myself as a food and culture columnist, I stopped by Syrena Polish Deli in Linden, an authentic eatery established in 2001. Almost 7% of New Jerseyans are of Polish descent, so it's about time I acknowledged our friends from Poland.

Upon walking into Syrena Polish Deli, I was overwhelmed by my surroundings. The space is also a grocery store with everything Polish, such as canned sauerkraut, mustards, jellies, candy, makowiec (Poppy seed cake), canned soups and a plethora of Polish specialties.

AND THEN, THERE WAS THE HOT FOOD BAR!