In the world of New York City bodega cats, few stories have achieved the legendary status of what we now call "The Zorro Swipe." It's the perfect example of why these feline guardians have become such beloved fixtures in our corner stores—they're unpredictable, fiercely territorial, and sometimes, just a little bit mischievous.
## Meet Zorro
Zorro, a tortoiseshell cat with attitude to spare, calls Zaragoza Mexican Grocery on Avenue A home. Like many bodega cats, Zorro has a dedicated spot—a cozy perch atop the radiator right by the front door. This strategic location allows Zorro to monitor everyone who enters and exits the store, keeping a watchful eye on the domain.
## The Fateful Inspection
Ruben, the store's owner, still tells the story with a mix of horror and amusement. It was during a routine health inspection—those nerve-wracking visits that can make or break a bodega's reputation with their all-important letter grade.
The health inspector arrived and, as Ruben recalls, immediately spotted Zorro on the radiator. Now, technically, cats aren't allowed in food establishments under New York City health code. But in practice, many inspectors look the other way when it comes to well-maintained bodegas with resident cats, especially when there's no evidence of rodent problems (precisely because the cat is doing its job!).
This particular inspector seemed to fall into the "live and let live" category. He completed his inspection, awarded the store a well-deserved A rating, and headed for the exit without mentioning the feline elephant in the room.
## The Scratch Heard 'Round the Neighborhood
Just as victory seemed assured, Zorro made an executive decision. As the inspector passed by the radiator on his way out, Zorro lashed out with a lightning-quick paw, catching the inspector's arm with a two to three-inch scratch.
The moment froze in time. The inspector stopped dead in his tracks, turned to Ruben, and with a mix of disbelief and resignation said simply: "Really, man? Really?"
Ruben, caught completely off guard, could only shrug helplessly. "Look, I'm sorry. Nothing I can do," he replied as the inspector walked out, now sporting an unexpected souvenir from his visit.
## Why We Love This Story
The Zorro swipe encapsulates everything we love about bodega cats. They might be working animals, but they're also individuals with their own personalities and boundaries. While most bodega cats are content to lounge peacefully as customers come and go, Zorro reminds us that these cats aren't just decorative—they have opinions and aren't afraid to express them.
Was Zorro trying to protect the store? Making a statement about health code regulations? Or perhaps, as one podcast host suggested, attempting to leave a "Z" mark to claim this inspector as his own? We'll never know for sure, but the story has become part of New York bodega cat lore.
## Visit Zorro (Carefully!)
If you want to meet the legendary Zorro yourself, you can find him at Zaragoza Mexican Grocery on Avenue A. Just remember to approach with respect—this is one bodega cat who's not afraid to enforce his boundaries!
And if you're a health inspector reading this... maybe give Zorro a little extra space.
More info: bodegacatsofnewyork.com
