Defonte's Sandwich Shop — Restaurant in New York

Yes, it's difficult to get here. If that's a problem for you, you should either 1) buy a car; 2) buy a bike; or 3) buy a comfy pair of running shoes. Either way, when you boil it all down, you really just need to get off that fat @ss of yours and engage in some form of locomotion (be it vehicular or self-generated/bipedal); reason for all the moving around is actually quite utilitarian, especially after partaking in one of the sandwiches from this joint.

A buddy and I decided to take advantage of the ideal weather situation that was going on this past Saturday, as we took our bicycles on the scenic route to Coney Island (19.5 miles one way, for yours truly...). For such an endeavor, an appropriate amount of protein and carbs was essential, and Defontes delivered in spades.

A lightning quick order was placed, with even faster prep and delivery of the 'wich into my hands. A roast pork sammy, with broccoli rabe, sans cheese, with a bag o' chips and bottle of red Gatorade to wash it all down. Needless to say, $15 well spent.

The meat was super moist and juicy, with the slow cooked flavors shining through the generous amount of gravy/jus poured on top. I was surprised with how well the bread held up after seeing how much gravy was poured over top of sandwich. Luckily, the broccoli rabe made the whole sandwich SO much more healthy (so I didn't have to feel like a fat @ss after eating everything in one sitting, chips and drink included).

I should've stopped by on the ride back from Coney Island... the 19.5 on the way back to the frozen north of Queens was a lot more difficult without one of these sandwiches percolating...

Was hoping the word would not get out on this hidden gem in Red Hook/ Carrol gardens Brooklyn. Have been going there for decades for the freshly made roast beef and mozzarella sandwich then almost passing out in my car. There is parking if your willing to walk a few block, bit of a crazy area with the battery tunnel right there. I usually park right by the police station, eat way too much food then drive home and pass out. There are some cool spots to check out in Redhook by the water if your in the area, and still awake after the roast beef feast. This is like your families roast beef on a holiday , perfect. They do sell out sometimes so recommend getting there before 1 pm. Try the macaroni and potato salad and tell me that is not the best also. Potato and eggs is a great breakfast also but you might pass out at work . Enjoy this spot us locals have been going to for...

Expectation was high, but I’m sorry to say I think this places is failing because of the hype train.

Ordered the buffalo chicken sandwich, chicken cutlet was NOT thin but thick like a chicken finger, and cold, cheese was NOT melted at all. There was some buffalo sauce but definitely not “smothered” as the menu states. Seems like they put the sandwich under a broiler for 20 seconds and slapped some sauce on it and called it a day. It wasn’t even busy to say that they had to rush the order.

Only saving grace was the high quality bread and mozzarella cheese they use.

The take away: If you want a cold sandwich I’m sure they can do that no issue. But if you want a hot and true to menu description sandwich, well look elsewhere because this ain’t it. Walked away disappointed, won’t be coming back especially since there are sooo many great sandwich shops...