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Definitely worth the hype That was probably the best chicken parm I've ever had I destroyed it I 100% recommend!!
I've been wanting to try this place for a really long time now and it was pretty busy when I went despite being located in Red Hook. I got the Chenzo and they are super generous with the fillings and everything tasted really fresh. I loved the peppers and the broccoli rape and I thought all the ingredients went really well together. The main thing that I didn't love was how thick the prosciutto was cut. Maybe it's just a personal taste preference but it was kind of hard to chew and always got stuck in my teeth. I've always preferred paper thin prosciutto layered together and I think that would have improved the taste of the sandwich a lot.
I finally made it here to try any one of their legendary subs and sandwiches! The deli is super old Skool Italian, cash only in a street not easy to get to without a car or taking the bus. But boy it is super worth it if you make the effort! The counter service is excellent and you place your order and wait for deliciousness! There are not many seats except for a few tables out back and a stand up counter to eat your sandwich so fyi! I ordered the Golden Boy Special ( Chicken Cutlet , Vodka Sauce , peppers , mozzarella and prosciutto) it was absolutely superb and the bread it was just incredible! My son and I shared a large plenty of Sandwich for two - and we got homemade meatballs to go ( 4 to be exact) - total bill $30 cash ! I wlll definitely be back to try a different sandwich but until then will remember how delicious this one was !
Get anything with Fried Eggplant, it's THE BEST! Hubs, the little one, and I were on our way to Ikea and suddenly remembered that Defonte's is close by! We must go! Defonte's Italian sandwiches are perfect! There are so many choices for sandwich but we went with the 1/2 Prosciutto, Fresh Mozzarella, Red Peppers, and Fried Eggplant Sandwich - this sandwich was perfectly delicious! The sesame hero bread is so soft inside. The ingredients were everything we loved and the combination of all of them worked so well together! The sandwiches come in 1/3 or 1/2 hero. The 1/2 hero was perfect for Hubs, my little one, and I. We came on a Saturday afternoon just after peak lunch and there was no wait! The menu is also huge so definitely take your time to decide before going! Note that Defonte's is closed on Sundays.
A FAT sandwich. Cash only. Got the Nicky's special which hit the spot - it was very pickle forward (pickled celery, carrots, etc) with generous fillings. Also included artichokes, fried eggplant
Came here on a Saturday and the wait wasn't too bad. It was about 15 mins from in and then out the door, which wasn't bad as a lot of popular NYC delis have huge lines. I ordered the Golden Boy Special. It's definitely a big sandwich and serving size of the breaded chicken cutlet is a good size. However, I didn't really taste much of the breading itself even with the vodka sauce.
This place has an amazing list of sandwiches. I tried a few things on the menu and made sure to get the small portions (1/3), which were still incredibly large!!! Staff were super friendly, the meats and veggies were delicious and fresh. It is a little in the pricey side, but considering how much food you get, it is well worth it. Their eggplant is perfection. I tried the Golden Boy, the Roast Pork Special, and the Princess. Their broccoli rabe is so garlicky, and the pork is nice and tender and flavorful.
It took some effort hiking through Red Hook, but we made it to Defonte's. This may be the quintessential sandwich shop representing all of NYC. It sure felt like we had discovered the "real" NYC. I ordered a roast beef, eggplant, & mozzarella sandwich. They sell them in 1/2 & 1/3 rolls. I got a 1/3 which was enough for 2 people. It was loaded with a ton of lean, soft, & moist roast beef in a jus. The mozzarella was super fresh & the eggplant was thin & tasty. Like I said, it was hard to get to, but so worth the trip.
The iconic and "old school" Defonte's in Red Hook Brooklyn. Once upon a time I along with some colleagues would stop in and get the breakfast hero's here back in the day. The sandwiches are huge here and they come in 1/3, & 1/2 sizes. Take my word on this, 1/3 is definitely enough sandwich for just about anyone. On the Saturday I went, at approximately 2:00pm, the line was out the door. But the wait wasn't long. The staff is quick with order taking and sandwich production. Like any iconic NYC place these days, there were a fair number of selfie snapping social media influencers. I went with the Red Hook Special which is chicken cutlets, melted American cheese, turkey, lettuce, tomato and bacon. It was delish! There are several tables outside and I ate it there. These sandwiches will set you back $13 - $18 bucks. Oh and it's cash only. There is an ATM onsite.
3-5-25. I've eaten sandwiches from here before with former co-workers. We would place a large order and someone would go to pick it up. Today was actually the first time I've been inside. It's an "old school" deli that's CASH ONLY. So hit the ATM prior to walking in. Today I ordered a potato, egg and ham hero with fresh mutz (with a little salt, pepper and ketchup added). I would definitely ask for a little extra ketchup the next time. Regardless though, the sandwich was fantastic. I've had quite a a few different sandwiches over the years.....whether it was Roast Beef and mutz, eggplant parm, Italian or even shrimp, they were all excellent. Although it may feel like your going back in time when stepping into this place, their prices have caught up with the modern era. Not saying they're bad, because they are on par with everyone else these days. One thing is for sure ....... you're definitely not going to be hungry after eating ANY of their sandwiches because the portions are more than fair. Their Italian bread is always fresh and delicious......crunchy exterior with a soft interior providing the exact chew you want in any good sandwich. The staff was working hard and they were friendly. There's no seating inside, but when the weather is agreeable, they have a few tables set up outside to dine at if you wish. Today, I just devoured my "sang-weech" in the car. In my opinion, I wouldn't say they are 5 stars.......but are very close to perfect and deserving of 4.5 stars.
8 years ago
I officially understand why my boyfriends family raves about this place, it's delicious! I highly recommend going if you like sandwiches. All the ingredients are fresh which you can tell just by looking at the counter. I ordered the Italian Tuna which was great. Usually tuna sandwiches are loaded with mayo but not this one! I also got a side of the mac salad. It was perfect! It wasn't over loaded with mayo, which is my preferences for mac salad. read more
4 years ago
What an amazing experience! Saw them in DDD and knew we had to go when on our NY trip for a concert. Got off plane on Friday and went straight here. Staff was soooo nice and food was amazing! I had the roast pork sandwich and my hubby got the prosciutto sandwich. We sat at the only table there and enjoyed our food and a root beer. Told someone about our trip and how we heard of them and the nicest guy brought us a serving of the pizziola (?) that was on DDD. Such great people and good. Run to this not only Brooklyn spot, but by far one of New Yorks finest establishments! read more
7 years ago
I'm a big fan of Diners Drive in's and Dives places. The sub shop is on a short list of sandwich shops and my 480th Triple D. I must say this old school business is an institution! I travel the country and I'm a big boy I've had my share of sandwiches all over the USA and there is NOTHING like Brooklyn bread. These guys are getting the best around because I got 2 sandwiches both with au jus and the crusty bread held up for the 2 hour ride back home to my Jersey shore home. People were raving about the steak pizziola but I wanted the Roast pork and roast beef. I tried the house made mozzarella too and I am blessed by being able to eat from Delfonte's kitchen. The sandwiches are huge! The people are wonderful and Nicky the owner is a real prince. Turns out one of my cousins saw my check in post of face book and he played ball with Nicky back in their high school days. Lots of my Brooklyn born friends and family who have relocated are super jealous and coming out of the woodwork to scream their praises about this place. They are thrilled it is as unchanged as it was when they were kids and they all want me to go back and ship sandwiches to them. LOVED LOVED LOVED DELFONTE'S read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
What things can I say that you should probably already know? It's the best! Classic. The italian sub primo magnifico. I love the old school feel to the spot! It felt authentic because it was authentic! Can't wait to go back. read more
3 years ago
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6 years ago
Defontes don't play. In a neighborhood of many exceptional Italian delis, Defontes is a stand out. Service is friendly and quick. Meats, cheeses, fried eggplant, stuffed peppers are so fresh and flavorful. Get the hot salad on EVERYTHING! The egg/potato breakfast sandwich was a perfect and hearty breakfast nosh. The Italian combo with added eggplant...what can I say? Simply put - Italian sub perfection. read more
7 years ago
When I think of Defontes, I think of the word transcendent. This experience brings you to the next level of Italian Delis. It is the final boss level of classic New York establishments. I dream about my eggplant parm from this spot and its been 3 months. We found Defontes on the way to Red Hook Winery, on leisurely walking tour of Brooklyn. There are no seats-it is just a mile long counter with an equally long menu and daily specials. GRATEFULLY the special of the day was fried shrimp in red sauce and oh my god has there ever been a better dish made? The small option of sandwich is enough food for two people--we could've done a large for 3 to be honest. BUT thankfull it comes wrapped up in a bag, so we just took the leftovers home and enjoyed them the next day. Do you know what was also a surprise hit? The macaroni and potato salad were out of this world. That is not to say that the sandwiches were not---they are beyond words---but it was a true delight to be craving some macaroni salad and have it be an original, freshly made concoction of deliciousness. We took our sandwiches and sat outside in the parking lot, but another option is to take them straight to the Red Hook Winery, where you can enjoy great wine with your great food. Cannot wait to go back! read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
I'm HOOKED on these sandwiches. I've been to Defontes more times than I can count (at least four times) and every sandwich I've had has been excellent. Having had the chicken parm, Redhook special, and Nicky special, my personal favorite is the roast beef with thick mozzarella and gravy (more like au jus). It just gets get me GOING. They offer 1/3 and 1/2 sizes for all sandwiches, but with such a small price difference for such a big size difference, there is legitimately no reason to ever get a small. Not in this economy. Go big and then go home, with a juicy meatster. read more
3 years ago
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2 years ago
We've been thinking about this place for a long time but unfortunately never had the timing right. Finally made a day of it and got our hands on these delicious sandwiches. Ordered the Virginia ham, mozzarella, tomato and fried eggplant and Italian combo. I truly enjoyed the ham mozzarella sandwich, they put the ham gravy on the bread which made it slightly sweet contrasting with the saltiness of the sandwich. Loved the addition of the fried eggplant and the taste of fresh mozzarella! I do wish I added in a spicy factor to give it an extra kick of flavor. As for the Italian combo, all the meats and ingredients were mingling so well with each other to form a saltiness, slight spiciness and tang within the sandwich. The only complaint from my s.o. is the tomato made the sandwich extra slippery to eat but for me it was fine, I love the veggies. Also, service was great and fast! They move quickly and efficiently. read more
5 years ago
Had the pleasure of working with Ray in ordering for an office party. The hero's were cut and packaged individually. It came with macaroni salad, potato salad, napkins, paper plates and forks. The chicken cutlet, grilled chicken, roast beef and eggplant were fresh and delicious. Worth the money and the drive. read more
This place had been on my radar for a while. If you're making a trip to Red Hook a visit to this old school sandwich stop is a must. It all starts with great bread, the cornerstone to any great sandwich. Different sandwiches get different kinds. The potato, egg and ham sandwich was crazy good. Soft bread and the fluffiest eggs I've ever had. Sounds like it could be overly starchy. I assure you it isn't. The Nicky special is similar to a classic Italian with some major upgrades, fried eggplant and giardiniera. Bread on this was has a crunchy crust with great bite. They offer plenty more than sandwiches for those who want variety. Service was extremely fast and friendly even during the lunch rush. read more
8 years ago
2 years ago
5 years ago
Defonte's is a Red Hook institution. There will be riots in the streets if Defonte's goes out of business. Red Hook has a very blue collar work force and they require serious nourishment. I've been there only twice but I'm already a fan. Sandwiches, Sausage and Peppers, Pasta Salad, Cole Slaw and whole lot more. I like the Italian Combo and the General the best. Grab a sandwich and a soda, and then head over to the Valentino Pier to eat. A great way to spend an afternoon. read more
5 years ago
One of my favorite sandwich shops for years a Brooklyn classic, love going here to get steak Pizzaiola tender juicy flavorful and the bread is the perfect bread it just absorbs it's juices. Staff are friendly and it's a quick get in and get out. read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
Food always hit here no matter what anyone decides to get. Been here a few times and got different things and each item was always quality not the best I had but far from the worst always solid, cash only with atm inside. read more
Picked up a few sandwiches from Defontes on Tuesday afternoon. Little too complain about when it comes to their food, but a few changes could make the ordering process smoother. Quality: Finally got an opportunity to try out the sandwiches at Defontes. Ordered three, which I consumed over two days. My sandwiches included the Giuseppe Special with eggplant parmigiana, meatballs, and melted mozzarella, the Chenzo 13, with prosciutto, sopressata, mozzarella, hot peppers, broccoli rabe, and balsamic glaze, and the Roast Beef, Mozzarella, & Eggplant. All the sandwiches were solid, but the key ingredient was the delicate eggplant. It was what took the Giuseppe Special over the top, definitely my favorite of the sandwiches, and made the difference in the Roast Beef, Mozzarella, & Eggplant. The Chenzo 13 which was missing it was my least favorite of the bunch, I think the broccoli rabe was the bigger distraction, but even it was devoured. Quantity: They offer two sizes and I ordered the larger one, which are huge and more than enough for a single meal. Value: Sandwiches fell between $12-$18. Cash only with ATM on premise. Ambiance: Defontes is located in the Red Hook area of Brooklyn. The sandwich shop sits in the bottom floor of a three story green building, which towers over the area. The customer space inside is long and narrow, with a counter along one side and fridges along the other. Signs hang everywhere with different sandwich options, but I really wish there was a full menu somewhere. The different sandwich items sit behind glass along the counter, allowing you to watch the staff load up your bread. Crowd: It was packed on Tuesday afternoon. Almost everyone in the store was wearing a safety vest, which is always a good sign for quality and value. Service: The staff is fantastic and puts together sandwiches extremely quick. However, with no clear menu and an emphasis on speed, it can be intimidating to order. Parking: Lots of street parking in the area. read more
Was visiting my brother in Manhattan we went over to Brooklyn to hang out and we got several sandwiches to try. We tried pastrami, roast beef and turkey sandwiches, Plus we got the macaroni salad. All of it was amazing and the customer service was impeccable. Easy to see why this place is legendary. Would totally recommend it to anyone who is mildly interested!! read more
Should you try these large, over the top, infamous, TV-documented, somewhat overpriced sandwiches? Defontely! Ew. I didn't like the way this text is looking. Hold on, while I figure out how to change de font. WARNING: They run out of the hot stuff way before closing, so get here earlier WHAT TO GET: Chicken sandwich or a Steak Pizzaolo maybe WHAT ELSE: It's defontely worth a try, although it's anyone's guess if you will become a regular If they poured some sugar on your sandwich every time you order one (in the name of love), it'd be renamed "Defleppards." Situated right by the industrial docklands of Brooklyn, when you're driving through this area, you really feel like you're in a mafia movie. Drive down to the end of one of the docks and look for suspicious cement blocks, if you dare. Known as the best sandwich in NYC, when de facto, it's probably not. But in Brooklyn? De Facto, it may well be. Hence the change of name from Defontes to "DeFactos." But oh, my, the sandwiches. These are some of the best sandwiches in New York, but they might not be quite as flavourful and off-the-charts as a lot of people would have you believe, including Guy Fieri, many Yelpers, and the prices, which aren't obscene (like Katz and Carnegie) but also are generally in excess of $10 for a sandwich, and you can't get a smaller order. If it gets vandalized in disgusting ways, it's temporarily renamed "Defecates." I've tried the famous Steak Pizzaolo, which was good, and I enjoyed it, dripping in tomato sauce as it was, which is known here as "gravy." However, when they were out of Steak, I tried the Chicken Cutlet with that same tomato sauce instead, and I have to say, I liked it even better. To the extent that I might say the chicken is the go-to hot sandwich here. If it ever closes down (I hope not), it'll be renamed "Defunct." If you want better sandwiches than Defonte's in Brooklyn, without going into Latin (such as Caracas and Guacuco's Arepas), or Middle Eastern (such as Goulette), then you'll be hard pressed to find any. Perhaps way down at G & S Salumeria, or over in Manhattan (Cheeky Sandwiches, Parisi, DiPalo's), and definitely Hoboken (Fran's and the others, best in America), but the point is that there aren't many. And as much as I adore Queens, the most famous sandwich shop up there (Sal, Kris & Charlie's), while more economical and even more filling, are not quite as good as these specialty hot sandwiches at Defonte's. And if you always end up ordering the same thing here, I guess we will rename it "Defaults." read more
Yeah yeah the sandwiches are kick ass but seriously, is it me or back in the day every NY deli made a sandwich of this quality? Walk into any NY deli today and ask for a small hero. They'll take out the Boars Head Roast Beef out of the wrapper, then the Boars Head cheese out of the wrapper, then the Boars Head.. ENOUGH! My dad owned a supermarket in the Hamptons. Back them, the deli manager would roast a huge hunk of roast beef for slicing. Walking around the IGA, you'd have this intoxicating beef smell. Then she'd call me over and make me a hot roast beef sammy. OMG! What I just described is still being done at Defontes. 100+ years as a matter of fact. I don't eat deli sandwiches too often because of the Boars Head take over. I do enjoy a hot sammy. Walking into Defontes, its not a fancy joint. First off you're in Red Hook. The hipsters are taking over but it ain't Park Slope up in here. There are no tables or chairs to sit and enjoy your sammy, just a small counter where you can stand and read the Defontes newspaper clippings. My son and I ate our large hero on the hood of our car. I want a simple, hot hero. I enjoy chicken parm heroes, shrimp parm heroes, pretty much anything "PARM" you had me at hello. We decide on splitting a large Hot Roast Beef Parm Hero (Minus the eggplant, to me its like eating slugs) We go outside, rip open the bag on the hood and I take a bite of a warm roast beef hero. Takes me right back to my dads store. Hot freshly sliced roast beef, topped with fresh mozzarella and roast beef gravy, its simply a home run hit. Brooklyn, we're famous for so many things. Whatever you call them in your hometown, grinders, subs, whatever. Come to Defontes and try the real deal from Brooklyn! read more
I haven't been back for years. On random days (today is one of those days), I'd gladly make the trip here, though, it's in the middle of no where. Defontes has been around forever. I remember coming often when IKEA first opened, I would purposely make a couple extra stops for furniture just to get my hands on one of their sandwiches, still haven't tried them all yet. Getting the Steak Pizzaiola next. My all time favorite has got to be the Roast Pork Special. The sandwich is complete with roast pork, broccoli rabe, cheese, and fried eggplant. That fried eggplant is everything. In fact, it's in a couple of their other amazing sandwiches. Every sandwich here is crazy good, spend an extra dollar and get the large, only a buck and you have a sandwich for tomorrow's lunch, well if you can't help but have it for dinner instead. Just can't have enough! ITS. SO. GOOD. read more
5 years ago
8 years ago
Roast beef mozz and eggplant sandwich = heaven Fast service Reasonably priced Hard to get to by public transit read more
6 years ago
3 years ago
More info about Defonte's
379 Columbia St
Brooklyn, NY 11231
Red Hook
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(718) 625-8052
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