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"An iconic Red Hook sandwich shop that still feels like a third place, it traces its roots to founder Nick Defonte, an immigrant from Mola di Bari, and the longshoremen who once sat, ate, and bonded here waiting for their boats. Today, the counter hums with banter among newcomers, firemen, union workers, and multigenerational neighborhood families, and the vibe is quintessentially New York—sure of itself and fun, with sports loyalties debated right in front of you. Come for the fat Italian sandwiches; stay for the timeless, welcoming rhythm that hasn’t changed even as the neighborhood has." - Jessica Chapel