Colossal, century-old Italian sandwich shop w/ legendary status & classic charm. Famous for overstuffed heroes & unique 'hot salad'. Cash only.
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.
Step into a Brooklyn institution where century-old traditions meet colossal sandwiches. Defonte's is renowned for its overstuffed heroes, legendary status, and a cash-only policy that adds to its classic charm. From the iconic 'Nicky's Special' to the highly praised 'Roast Pork Special' with its unique 'hot salad' and fried eggplant, every bite is a testament to decades of sandwich-making mastery.
Defonte's is a beloved Italian-American deli celebrated for its enormous and meticulously crafted sandwiches. Popular choices include the 'Nicky's Special' (ham, capicola, salami, fried eggplant, hot salad) and the 'Roast Pork Special.' The fried eggplant is a standout ingredient, praised for its texture and ability to enhance any sandwich. While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, one reviewer found the steak pizzaiola dry and tasteless.
"Highly recommended dishes include the 'Nicky's Special' (ham, capicola, salami, fried eggplant, hot salad), the 'Roast Pork Special' with gravy on the side, and any sandwich featuring their notable fried eggplant. The 'Steak Pizzaiola' and 'Eggplant Parm' are also frequently praised."
Customers overwhelmingly praise Defonte's for its massive, delicious sandwiches and classic deli atmosphere. It's considered a long-standing institution that consistently delivers high-quality, satisfying meals.
Important Note
The Red Hook location can be a bit of a hike, and it is a cash-only establishment. Some customers note that seating is limited, and recommend enjoying the sandwiches at a nearby park or waterfront.
"This user expressed nostalgia for DeFontes and inquired about the fate of its second location."
Neutral"This user recommended DeFontes for its pizza and describes it as a Brooklyn hero shop."
Positive"Adding pesto to the roast beef sandwich at Defontes is suggested to elevate its flavor."
Positive"This is a good recommendation but not a traditional French Dip."
Neutral"This commenter initially misread Defontes as Deftones, causing confusion."
Neutral"Defontes roast beef special with hot salad and gravy on the side is recommended."
Positive"DeFontes is recommended as a sandwich shop to try."
Positive"The user suggests De fontes as an alternative, mentioning that while it won't be the same as Eggslut, their egg and potato dish is a good option."
Positive"This commenter suggests adding Defonte's for their 'egg and potato' sandwich."
Positive"The commenter questions why Defonte's is not included on the sandwich tour list."
Neutral"Defonte's is mentioned as a preferred sandwich shop, though it's noted that it's not located in the Williamsburg or DUMBO areas."
Positive"The roast pork special is a favorite, with the fried eggplant acting as a buffer to prevent the bread from getting soggy."
Positive"A recommended combination is the roast beef with fresh mozzarella and fried eggplant with gravy."
Positive"The fried eggplant sandwich with sauce and grated cheese is a favorite. The eggplant is battered and fried to be crispy."
Positive"This is a favorite sandwich, and adding pesto elevates it further."
Positive"This is identified as a favorite sandwich in NYC."
Positive"If you're specifically looking for eggplant, the Valentino special is a good choice. Any breaded eggplant sandwich at Defonte's is recommended."
Positive"The Nicky Special is a strong contender for the best Italian sandwich in NYC."
Positive"This user listed Defonte's among other top sandwich establishments in NYC."
Positive"This user expressed their love for Defonte's."
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