Waiters in classic Jewish delis tend to be crabby no matter what, but they treat you even worse if you act like a greenhorn. Here are ten basic terms you should know before ordering:
Blintzes: Crepes rolled around sweet pot cheese and fried in butter.
Chicken-in-a-pot: A stew/soup in golden broth with tender vegetables.
Kasha varnishkes: Bow-tie noodles with buckwheat groats.
Knish: A potato dumpling with the atomic weight of lead.
Knoblewurst: Garlicky salami.
Kugel: Noodle pudding that can be either sweet or savory.
Latkes: Potato pancakes, served on the side of sandwiches or as a meal.
Novie: Short for “Nova Scotia lox,” meaning sliced smoked salmon that isn’t too salty.
“Oy vey”: An expression of exasperation; the waiter’s mantra.
Schmaltz: Rendered chicken fat, often spread on dark bread like butter.