New York acts as a cosmopolitan city, which brings together cuisines from all over the world. This is manifested through the prevalence of transnationalism, as seen both economically and socially. This phenomenon occurs when a melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities and their corresponding foods are brought together. This is frequent in specific foods that are used in different ways as well as certain stores than incorporate varying foods. One example of the former is Rice, a staple in multiple cuisines, specifically, how rice is used in ethnic countries vs. how it is used in New York. Additionally the economic process behind importing and exporting the product is different based on where it comes from and where it is sent. Therefore, it shows the way transnationalism plays both socially and economically through both food and the prices behind it. An example of the latter is the nationwide store chain Trader Joe’s. While some individual stores are smaller than others, each makes sure to cater to specific ethnicities within the neighborhood they are in. This is reflective of the trans-nationalistic nature of America because of the fact that this food chain procures food for a wide array of groups of people that go beyond the boundaries of the United States.
Early migration in New York has foreshadowed the modern-day variety of people and foods that continue to mix and integrate. Originally Chinatown was a very popular area that belonged to mostly Chinese people, now it seems like more white and Spanish people live in the area. This concept highlights the importance behind time and change in different areas. Revisions of the neighborhoods evoke response from local businesses in order to adjust to the new ethnicities in the area. The Jing Fong restaurant is the perfect business that demonstrates the migration of Chinese and non-Chinese people in and out of the area. The restaurant offers the authentic Chinese food and the American version of Chinese food on its menu. This symbolizes the effect migration has on the local areas and its businesses. Similarly, the history and culture of the United States and Mexico have long been intertwined since long before the two countries came into their modern borders. Chipotle is an American chain of fast food specializing in Mexican food. Though it is Mexican-style food, it is also an American version of authentic Mexican food. Since the restaurant chain began from a man of non-mexican descent, the topic of appropriation versus appreciation of a culture arises.
