Ernestine Chambers and Naté Gordon Open Baltimore’s First Black and Woman-Owned Bodega, Blending New York Flavor with Local Opportunity

Baltimore just got a bold new corner store. Chopped Broadway Bodega & Deli has officially opened its doors, offering more than just sandwiches. Co-owners Ernestine Chambers and Naté Gordon are leading this exciting new venture as the city’s first Black- and woman-owned bodega.

The shop, located in the Fells Point neighborhood, brings the flavors of New York-style delis to Baltimore streets. But this business isn’t just about food — it’s about creating opportunity and community pride.

A Grand Opening Full of Flavor and Purpose

On May 2, 2025, Chambers and Gordon hosted a ribbon-cutting event to launch Chopped Broadway. The ceremony marked a proud moment for both the owners and the city. Local leaders, including Maryland Senator Cory McCray, came out to show their support.

“We had this opportunity to make history today and also put a store with fresh food in Fells Point,” Chambers shared. The new bodega is already gaining attention for offering fresh, made-to-order meals and a warm, welcoming vibe.

Big City Sandwiches with a Baltimore Heart

The bodega’s menu is packed with New York deli classics like chopped cheese, bacon-egg-and-cheese sandwiches, and massive hoagies. Their top-selling “Godfather” sandwich is a hearty Italian-style sub with a fresh twist.

Naté Gordon explained, “We have a little bit of everything for everybody. Huge, ginormous hoagies — New York style — all chopped fresh.” The shop also caters to health-conscious eaters with vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO options.

Feeding the Community While Building It

Chopped Broadway isn’t only about great food. It’s about giving back and growing Baltimore’s local economy. Chambers and Gordon have already hired 98% of their staff from the surrounding neighborhood. This move surpasses hiring expectations and brings valuable jobs to the area.

In a community where nearly 17% of the population is Black, this business offers more than meals — it creates a sense of belonging and local pride. “Most of the time when you come into a convenience store, you rarely see healthy choices,” Chambers noted. That’s why the bodega also features an organic section, vegan options, and a non-GMO corner.

A New Chapter for Minority-Owned Businesses in Maryland

This opening arrives as Maryland sees a rise in Black- and minority-owned businesses. In 2024, Governor Wes Moore named Maryland the number one state for minority entrepreneurship. Chopped Broadway stands as a proud part of that growth.

“That’s what Chopped is about: food, culture, and opportunity,” Chambers added. The owners hope to inspire other entrepreneurs while providing a much-needed space for fresh food and good vibes in the heart of Baltimore.

A Fresh Start for Fells Point

Chopped Broadway Bodega & Deli isn’t just a place to grab a sandwich. It’s a symbol of progress and possibility. Every chopped cheese and vegan sub sold is part of a larger movement to uplift neighborhoods and build businesses that reflect their communities.

In the words of Chambers and Gordon, this is about more than food — it’s about people, culture, and a future filled with fresh beginnings.