Red Hook Italian Heroes and Sandwiches on Columbia Street

Defonte's Sandwich Shop has been wrapping up massive heroes in Red Hook from the 1920s onward. The counter at 379 Columbia Street is devoted to heavyweight deli cooking, with the sort of sandwich that takes two hands. Think of this as a pickup stop, rather than a meal built around a table.

Sturdy seeded bread holds the weight of the fillings. The Golden Boy combines chicken cutlets, vodka sauce, prosciutto, and mozzarella. A half sandwich is large enough to feed two people, giving a shared order some appeal before you commit to a whole hero. The ordering line moves quickly, and the staff can guide you through the menu.

Bring paper money, as the counter takes cash payments only. There are no seats, just a standing ledge along the wall for a pause with your food. The shop opens Monday through Saturday from 6 AM to 4 PM and closes on Sunday.