Last Updated: 3 days ago
Phone: (718) 625-8052
Address: 379 COLUMBIA STREET 11231
Brooklyn's legendary Italian sandwich shop, serving overstuffed heroes for over 100 years. A must-try for authentic deli fare.
Willa Moore reviews Defonte's, a century-old Italian sandwich shop in Brooklyn, praising its overstuffed sandwiches and classic charm. The article highlights the 'hot salad' and the popular fried eggplant.
Defonte's Sandwich Shop in Brooklyn is a legendary, century-old establishment that continues to serve up classic, overstuffed Italian-American heroes. Known for its no-frills atmosphere and cash-only policy, this iconic deli has earned a devoted following for its generous portions and time-honored recipes. From the popular fried eggplant to unique offerings like 'hot salad,' Defonte's provides a truly authentic and satisfying sandwich experience that keeps customers coming back.
Defonte's is renowned for its Italian-American sandwiches, particularly its overstuffed heroes. Standout items include the 'Steak Pizzaiola,' 'Nicky Special,' 'Prosciutto Special,' and the unique 'hot salad' topping. While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, one reviewer found the steak pizzaiola dry and tasteless. The 'eggplant parmesan' and 'potato & egg' sandwiches are also frequently recommended.
"Defonte's is lauded for its massive Italian sandwiches, with particular praise for the 'Steak Pizzaiola,' 'Nicky Special' (ham, capicola, salami, fried eggplant), 'Prosciutto Special,' and the 'Roast Pork Special.' The unique 'hot salad' is also a popular addition."
Customers overwhelmingly praise Defonte's for its delicious, massive sandwiches and its status as a classic, enduring institution. While some note the location can be a hike, the quality and authenticity of the food generally outweigh any minor inconveniences.
Important Note
The location in Red Hook can be considered a hike or difficult to access for some, and it operates on a cash-only basis.
"In response to the Defontes mention, this commenter advises adding the "hot salad" and getting a side of gravy."
Neutral"The author listed Defonte's as their number one choice among the places visited, considering it one of the best things they've ever eaten."
Positive"The commenter suggests Defontes for a roast beef sandwich."
Neutral"This user mentioned Defonte's in Red Hook as a place worth trying for a hoagie."
Positive"This commenter simply stated "Defontes.""
Positive"The commenter praised Defonte's eggplant parm sandwich as amazing and also mentioned their Giuseppe Special (eggplant parm and meatball) and Nicky Special (Italian with fried eggplant)."
Positive"The user mentioned that Defonte's has great options, specifically Roast pork and rabe, Italian combo, and Steak Pizzaolo."
Positive"This user stated that Defonte's is a great spot but perhaps not worth a special trip for tourists."
Neutral"Defonte's is listed as one of the recommended Italian sandwich spots."
Positive"Defonte's is listed as one of the two best Italian sandwich spots the user has tried."
Positive"Defonte's in Red Hook is recommended as a top spot for Italian sandwiches."
Positive"This user stated that Defonte's is 'not worth going out of the way' and is 'overrated'."
Negative"This commenter suggested that Defonte's is not worth going out of the way for, but acceptable if already in the area."
Negative"A warning was issued about Red Hook being a 'shit part of Brooklyn' but acknowledged it's a great place for a sandwich."
Negative"Defonte's in Red Hook is recommended, with a note that their strong suit is the hot heroes, especially those with eggplant."
Positive"De fontes is listed as a recommended spot for breakfast sandwiches."
Positive"The author listed a sandwich from Defonte's as a preferred item for a 'last meal' scenario."
Positive"Though they haven't tried the vegetarian sandwich, this user believes all sandwiches at Defonte's are amazing and expects their veggie option to be good, highlighting additions like fried eggplant, broccoli rabe, and hot salad."
Positive"The user listed DeFonte's for its egg, potato, and cheese sandwich."
Positive"deFontes is mentioned as a place for a potato, egg, and cheese sandwich."
Positive
