STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Construction is almost complete on Defonte's Sandwich Shop in Stapleton. The family operation, known for its original store in Red Hook established 93 years ago, plans to open Saturday, Dec. 13.
"The first couple of weeks will be a little hectic," predicts co-owner Phil Defonte. But with a staff of seasoned workers already trained in the Brooklyn operation, he anticipates things to settle down soon after the grand opening.
Some of Defonte's staff, by the way, hail originally from the sandwich shop's former Gramercy location which closed six months ago; a developer bought the building.
An image from the Defonte's Sandwich Shop Facebook page.
Phil Defonte is partners with his brother, Nicky, and Larry Demonte in both the Staten Island operation. They also own the building at 95 Water St. in which the shop is housed. This latest Defonte's outpost is located across the street from an overhauled, historic Tappen Park and about a block away from an expanded Stapleton Library.
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At the store, project manager Chris Severino from Dunrite NY Enterprises, Mariners Harbor, pointed to one end of the store and explained, "This is going to be an open kitchen."
Stapleton's Defonte's is a single room with a stainless steel work station and display case along one side. The section to which Severino referred is a spacious cooking area at the very back of the shop. Part of the decor includes a tin ceiling, a rustic wooden floor and exposed brick behind the service counter along with subway tile.
"We wanted an old-time feel, to bring back the 40s and 50s old Italian theme," said Phil. Expect Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra to be the background music.
Defonte's began in 1922 as a modest sandwich shop in Red Hook. Nick Defonte, Phil's grandfather who came originally from Mori di Bari, Italy, bought the shop for $100. Over the years, three generations of Defontes have worked the store. Now, Phil and his brother Nicky are the Defontes at the helm.
At the store's grand opening on Saturday, the more senior members of the family will be on hand including "Uncle Phil," Danny (Phil's father) and Vito Defonte.
Hours on opening day are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Going forward the store will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. The shop is open six days a week and closed on Sundays. More info: Call 718-285-4310 or check out DefontesOfBrooklyn.com.