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.
via New York Times
Matt Coneybeare
Editor in Chief
Matt enjoys exploring the City's with his partner and son. He is an avid marathon runner, and spends most of his time eating, running, and working on cool stuff.
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