New York City's Most Iconic Foods—and Where to Get Them | Condé Nast Traveler

"Brookyn’s Red Hook neighborhood isn’t the easiest of places to reach in NYC—yet it’s not often you’ll find a line outside its long-time sandwich shop, Defonte’s. Slinging the fattest of sandwiches since 1922, New Yorkers and newcomers alike travel to this iconic, multi-generational old-school Italian deli for both taste and good company (locals, NYC fire fighters, and long-time repeat customers are all treated like family). While the chicken parm is stellar, the most popular order is the mouthwatering Nicky Special that represents the type of Italian deli sandwich this city does best: ham, provolone cheese, salami, ham cappicola, fried eggplant, hot salad (housemade with spicy pickled vegetables), mushroom, lettuce, and tomato—all slapped on a hero." - Kat Chen