Defonte’s Sandwich Shop Remains Brooklyn’s Best Kept Secret

Discover Defonte’s in Red Hook, Brooklyn—a historic sandwich shop that has been serving iconic, flavor-packed sandwiches since 1922.

What is it about Brooklyn and sandwiches? You’ve got inventive new chefs racking up likes on Instagram and TikTok, but then there are the legends—the old-school establishments that have been quietly perfecting the art of the sandwich for decades. And if you’re a sandwich aficionado or even just a hungry wanderer in Brooklyn, you’d be making a major misstep if you overlooked Defonte’s Sandwich Shop in Red Hook.

Defonte’s isn’t just a sandwich shop; it’s an institution. This Red Hook gem has been a family-owned business since 1922, making it one of Brooklyn’s oldest sandwich havens. Defonte’s holds fast to tradition, crafting each sandwich with layers of flavor and history. It serves up iconic creations like the signature Nicky Special, which features fried eggplant, hot ham, salami, mozzarella, and more piled high on Italian bread.

Red Hook itself has evolved dramatically over the years. Once considered one of the toughest areas in Brooklyn, it’s now a cultural hotspot with a thriving food scene, local artisans, and even waterfront views that draw in visitors from all over. Yet, even as Red Hook has changed, Defonte’s remains a timeless fixture; its no-frills atmosphere brings back loyal patrons time and time again.

But the appeal of Defonte’s isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s the quality and consistency that keep people coming back. The sandwiches here are generously portioned and packed with bold flavors, served fresh and loaded with ingredients that would satisfy even the pickiest Brooklynite. Sure, you could chase down the latest Instagram sensation, but if you’re craving something hearty, time-tested, and authentic, Defonte’s is where Brooklyn’s sandwich roots truly shine.

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