Edouard Massih, the owner of local Lebanese market Edy’s Grocer (136 Meserole Ave.), announced on Instagram that he is working on his first cookbook. The publication will be titled Keep it Zesty.
Edy’s Grocer has gained a cult following in the neighborhood, so the cookbook is sure to be highly anticipated. However, it looks like fans will have to wait a bit, as Edy told Greenpointers that the cookbook will not be on shelves until Spring 2024.
The announcement on Instagram reads, “The last two years of Edy’s Grocer have been the most beautiful journey and I can’t wait for this new zesty chapter of life. I am so pleased to announce that “KEEP IT ZESTY”, my first cookbook inspired by the flavors, heart, and soul of Edy’s Grocer, is OFFICIALLY in the works!”
Edy warmly continues by writing, “When I moved to America I would spend my Sundays in Boston at @barnesandnoble flipping through cookbooks, waiting in line for 6 hours with my sister for @rachaelray book signings and only DREAMING of having my own someday. My love for cookbooks kept growing and growing until finally I had a vision of getting deal at the age of 27 and publishing my first book by the age of 30.”
He ended with a sweet shoutout to Greenpointers and the local community: “…with this vision, years of perseverance in the kitchen, and the love and support of all of you @greenpointers, IT’S HAPPENING!!! I can’t wait to share with you all this next journey and bring this book to life with all of the love and zestyness in the world.”
Edy’s Grocer took over the space that was formerly Maria’s Deli, a Polish market owned by Maria Puk, during the height of the pandemic in August 2020. Greenpointers previously reported about Massih’s friendship with Puk and how he joked with her about taking over the place when she retired. When the pandemic hit, Massih’s catering business declined, Maria’s closed, and the joke became Edy’s Grocer.
Edy’s is known for twists on Lebanese classics like the Pita-Dilla with Syrian string cheese and spicy tomato jam and the Lemony Chicken and Orzo Soup with carrots, celery, and onions. Customers also love Edy’s mezze dips and snacks like the marinated feta and the pomegranate grape leaves. Edy’s Grocer also has a somewhat secret takeout window on Eckford Street that serves up coffee, tea, and the full seasonal rotating menu.
Until the cookbook comes out, enjoy Edy’s Grocer Wednesday through Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Instagram worthy establishment but This food is dog food.