As one of the oldest sandwich shops in New York City, Defonte’s has been a top destination for Italian American sandwiches for more than 100 years. Originally purchased in 1922 by Nick Defonte for only $100, the shop sits in Red Hook, a Brooklyn neighborhood that has evolved over time: Once labeled one of the “worst” neighborhoods in America by LIFE Magazine in the 1990s, it sustained heavy damage during Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and is now home to a growing number of high rises. And yet, Defonte’s has stayed very much the same through it all, a cash-only spot buzzing with energy and a requisite picture wall of famous and notable Italians.
Follow the owner Larry Demonte and Anthony, one of his sons, and meet the “Chenzo 13” sandwich. Named after Larry’s eldest son Vicent, who passed away in 2021, the “Chenzo 13” quickly became a new favorite on the Defonte’s sandwich roster.
Here are the 57 sandwiches that define New York City: https://nyti.ms/3BWuDSP
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22 Comments
Average American can eat in one day what a 4 people African family will eat in a weak.That is why when you see a young 20 years old is looking like he has 40 and every second guy is overweight.
I love Brooklyn
I grew up in that neighborhood that place place is not worth all the hype!! They make the same sandwiches anywhere . Please!
I could never understand how anyone in NYC goes to Blimpie’s or Subway when you have bodegas and delis that make some of the greatest sandwiches and heros
Dog. I need more coffee. I thought that sign said 'Deftones Sandwich Shop'.
This was great in so many ways. Pardon me, I have to buy a plane ticket.
No Bull
Good vibes
I haven’t been to America. I have a brother there for 15 or odd years. I always said if I hit New York that’s the type of place I wanna hit for food. The old school the well-known, the historical that served the best!.
Love from Dublin Ireland
Frankie’s down the block is better. Real ones know I’m right
The fastest wrap in New York City
where is the shmeare of poop
See now yor spilling everything on the flor
Big Vin
Beautiful tribute to Chenzo, and an amazing shop, hope i can visit one day. Also the Sopranos cast going there, just seals the deal!
Cash is still King
I cant stand this Guy Anthony.
beautiful story. makes me miss New York.
Brooklyn summed up in a neighborhood, Deli..💪🇺🇸
damn those samiches look good.
God bless this family..A fathers love is forever.
Ultimately I judge a deli on whether they have a standalone person who handles all the money.