Inside the factory where NYC's food carts get ingredients

Every morning, New Yorkers stop at chrome breakfast carts for coffee, bagels and doughnuts — a routine that fuels the city's workforce. But behind that ritual is a fragile industry built on large suppliers, early-morning shifts, and a permit system that has prompted street protests. With Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who highlighted vendors in his campaign videos, preparing to take office, the system is getting fresh attention.