Natasha G.
Yelp
Mama's is fiercely local, deeply rooted in the neighborhood, and consistent in its delivery of Italian American classic sandwiches. Don't come here expecting dainty, hipster-nouveau-rustic, European food: this is not the place you're looking for. But, if you want a thicc sub that will delightfully fall apart in your fists during your sunny picnic in nearby Flushing-Meadows Park, Mama's will help you out. You can also come here to get cold cuts, various antipasti, Italian pantry goods, and, down the block at their bakery, Italian pastries, but I've really only come for the classic sandwich with a bunch of layered meats, cheese, pickles, and mushrooms.
I am tbh always too scared to ask for any modifications to the Mama's special sandwich but I am always thrilled to eat what they give me. Is it the absolute best Italian American hoagie you're ever going to eat? I'd probably pick, locally, Stretto Bros in LIC over Mama's. But, there is something that feels "authentic" (I know, I know, the word is cringe now) about Mama's, and it's a real local mainstay that seems to have been here for generations, with the original "Mama's" daughter running the show. Come for the sandwich, find vibes that are increasingly rare in NYC, and enjoy their hospitality!