Rarely do I rate a place I've never actually been to. However in this case of someone bringing me 2 of the best Italian heroes ( sangwiches) I think Ive ever had, I'm making an exception. I've eaten MANY Italian heroes all over northern NY & NYC and this has to be the best Ive ever had. This place is well established in the local community and I am sure someone has done a video or segment on TV about this place. The amount of food on a sandwich and the quality of their food is impeccable. No heroes loaded up with tomato and lettuce. Just plenty of the "good stuff". Don't give the prices a 2nd glance as these sandwiches have to weight 4-5 lbs each and a full ( 10"?) hero is plenty for 2 very hungry people. They have over 150 Signature sandwiches named after ( mostly) Italian celebrities. ( Fran Sinatra, Yogi Berra, Sophia Loren, etc) I was very satisfied with these 2: ---#119 EDDIE ARCARDO "Try This Thoroughbred"-- Chicken cutlet, salami, ham, olive oil, basil mix, LIONI FRESH MOZZARELLA, Sun-dried tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar ----#P1 THE ROSANNA SCOTTO "You'll Have A Good Day With This One" Ham, Salami, Pepperoni, Soppressata, Fresh Mozzarella, Roasted Peppers OMG! so loaded, so fresh, amazing bread. Home made roasted peppers, sundried tomatoes, AMAZING mozzarella! Be hungry & GO! Top notch! read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Food: This is an old school Italian sub shop that makes over 100 different types of sandwiches. They are well known for their fresh mozzarella which is delicious. The subs are always packed with meat and fresh ingredients; the bread is delicious. Their shop also sells traditional Italian breads ($1.50 for an Italian loaf), sides, desserts, and groceries. They also do catering and long subs for parties and events. The number of choices of subs can be overwhelming! Service: Service was average, nothing bad but nothing great either. Ambiance: There is a small table that seats about 6 people in the shop if you want to eat there. The sub shop/counter is in the back, and the front is a small grocery store with Italian products. Overall, I would recommend this sandwich spot! read more

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Ordered takeout for lunch and best decision we made! The gentleman that picked up the phone let us know it'll take at least 45 mins for pickup since they were swarmed with orders, boy was he not kidding!!! The sandwich was huge! I ate a quarter of it and was stuffed. I have enough for dinner and lunch and dinner again tomorrow! Definitely returning to try out other sandwiches. read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - #62. Alyssa Milano Hero - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

True Score - 4.5 Stars Oh that bread!!! It is a cosy, local, and authentic Italian Deli. They have over 100 sandwiches to choose from with the freshest ingredients I've tasted in quite some time. I tried #62 (Alyssa Milano) and it was delicious, but massive so be ready. Amazing chicken cutlets. The smells coming out of this place are ridiculous. These hero sandwiches run around 20 bucks for reference and they are worth every penny. A Brooklyn Classic. Thanks read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Lioni Italian Heroes is worth visiting for the fresh mozzarella alone--it may be the best I've ever had. Everything tastes incredibly fresh, and you can tell they take pride in the quality of their ingredients. It's a classic Brooklyn spot with amazing food and a welcoming atmosphere. If you're in the neighborhood, don't miss it. read more

Old school. I love that there are over 100 sandwiches named after Italian legends and homemade glazed balsamic. The sandwiches were so big I could barely close my backpack. I ordered the Vinny Vella(salami, lettuce tomatoe EVOO, vinegar) my son ordered the Rocky Marciano. (Capo, and a bunch of other stuff. It's about $25 bucks for a sandwich and the sandwiches are on maybe 14 inch hero's and stuffed to the brim. Friendly service and I love that they have an olive bar, I also got the hot stuffed peppers. This is located on a strip of all imported Italian shops so worth a gander and stroll. Definately at least two meals worth of food and delicious. read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - #7. The Rocky Marciano Hero - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

These Italian heroes are PACKED with quality ingredients and are quite massive. Be prepared to wait a little if you don't call ahead of time as these sandwiches are made to order. You can choose from one of their combos or make your own. They sell your typical Italian deli items (frozen pastas, ravioli, fresh mozz, etc). This is my go to Italian hero spot whenever I'm in the area! Check out my foodsta @chiuventure for a closer look and more details of my dining experience here as well as other establishments in NYC and around the world! read more

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I was craving an eggplant parm hero and always wanted to try this place. I was not disappointed. I ordered the Giovanni de Verrazano Hero with vodka sauce. This hero was sooooo good! The eggplant was breaded and seasoned to perfection. The sandwich as a whole was nice and toasty with the cheese melted quite nicely and the bread nice and buttery. The vodka sauce was a savory addition for sure. I was very pleased with this hero and will definitely get it again :) read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - #53. Giovanni da Verrazano Hero - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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After all these years, this place is still my go-to for sandwiches! Prices have increased over the years but the quality of these sandwiches hasn't changed. I have tried numerous items from this place and never had a complaint. My new go-to sandwich is #7A the Joe Garagiola hero. Everything goes so well together and the pesto sauce is delicious! The smoked mozzarella is also a game changer! read more

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I was really craving a sandwich, so I searched for an authentic Italian spot--and Lioni Italian Heroes popped up with amazing reviews. With over 150 sandwiches on the menu, I knew I had to check it out for myself. I went with #56: salami and provolone with lettuce, tomato, salt, pepper, oil, and vinegar. It was absolutely on point--fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. Located in the heart of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, Lioni has a true old-school vibe that I love. The walls are filled with nostalgic photos, including Brooklyn Dodgers memorabilia from before the team moved to L.A. such a cool touch. This place is definitely worth the visit and might just become a weekly stop for me. With so many sandwich options, there's always something new to try. The staff is super friendly and helpful too. Support this amazing mom & pop shop, it's well worth the trip! read more

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Charles Atlas hero was really disappointing. It was dry, no basil mix that I could taste, I had to pour my own balsamic glaze on it so I could eat it. Not worth the money at all. I will never order from here again. read more

Ordered a 3 ft hero for a get together from Lioni's and it was a hit. I've had Lioni many years ago and remembered enjoying their sandwiches. Quality is still pretty good. When you cater multiple foot long sandwiches, it comes with potato salad, macaroni salad, cole slaw and pickles. Those sides were all a hit and enjoyed by everyone who tried it. I placed the order two days before I needed it and they will send you a copy of what you ordered via text and confirm how much payment is which made it super easy and straightforward. read more

Everything there is awesome.. The 106 is my favorite sandwich.. The fresh mozzarella is the best, the lard bread is delicious..

Lioni is one of Defonte's top competitors, offering gargantuan Italian-American sandwiches in vintage Brooklyn vibes. Indeed, many of the shops and restaurants I've visited in Bensonhurst feel like they exist in a New York City of decades prior, which keeps drawing me back out to the neighborhood. I ordered the #27, which had a simple combination of delicate fresh mozzarella, salt, tomato, and greens on an airy, chewy roll. The portion would easily be enough to feed 3 for lunch. read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Phew! We drove to Brooklyn from Hamilton Heights to chase the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights and were hoping to stop at Lioni's just before walking the lights. There was SO much traffic getting there, though; we arrived at Lioni's with only 30 minutes before closing. THANK GOD we had already decided which sandwiches we wanted before arriving on the long drive over. We put our order in right away and actually found a parking spot outside which enabled us to sit at one of the small tables inside and eat for a few minutes. Also, important to add, that there is no public bathroom here. Ugh! Here are the subs we got: Chicken cutlet, house-made mozzarella, broccoli rabe, olive oil, salt and pepper Chicken cutlet, prosciutto, lettuce, red pepper and balsamic vinegar Straight-up mozzarella, tomato, and basil with olive oil and red vinegar Chicken cutlet, pistachio mortadella, tomato, shredded lettuce, oil, and vinegar The subs were all HUGE, like two people can easily share and still have plenty of food each. Overall fantastic. The no public bathroom was a bummer and our direct counter server was a bit dismissive, but maybe thats the way it goes here? I couldn't tell, it was only my first time. Customers coming in for pick up were all super friendly! read more

Super delicious Italian sandwiches here! It was crazy that there was over 100 different sandwiches to choose from. It got a bit overwhelming. I ended up choosing 2 sandwiches ( the alyssa milano & leonardo dicaprio), 1 potato croquette & pastrami croquette. The sandwiches are hugeeee, XXXL! I ate half & saved the other half for another time. The bread they use was superb - super delicious, fresh & soft! Alyssa milano (#62 ) - Chicken cutlet, prosciutto di parma, LIONI fresh mozzarella, and basil mix. This sandwich was delicious and very enjoyable! Leonardo Dicaprio (#111) - Fried eggplant, Roast Beef, LIONI fresh mozzarella, white american, bruschetta, sun-dried tomato, stuffed peppers and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. This sandwich was all over the place w/ different flavors but super delicious and enjoyable! I love the fried eggplant, roast beef, cheese, sun dried tomato, stuffed peppers & the sauce they use. I would reorder this! The potato croquette - this item was not warm for some reason (told guy we would like it warmed up). It did not taste good at all. The pastrami croquette - this item was also not warm for some reason & did not taste that great either. Super fast service & staff was attentive. There is indoor seating w/ a few tables & chairs. read more

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I like this place. The quality of the ingredients is good, and the bread is fantastic. That being said I advise making a custom sandwich and being very specific because the default ratio of the ingredients on some of the menu options are highly questionable. I had a meatball parmigiana sub delivered and it was like 90% ground beef and 10% cheese. Not ideal. read more

Quite spectacular to say the least. A true Brooklyn Italian deli. Only the freshest meats, cheeses and bread. With over 130-something sandwiches to choose from there's something for everyone. But don't take too long gazing at the menu- New Yorkers are quick and efficient. A few seats but Lioni's is more of a grab and go. The best and delicious. read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Great local hero shop, this will be a must stop whenever I'm in town. Sandwiches were excellent, service was nice and there are some places to sit at to enjoy your hero. We ended up taking ours back home and everything held up together fine. Loved the #10 and #78 especially. Got about 5 sandwiches and side of the rice balls. read more

Amazing! Heroes are LARGE. Big enough that a sandwich will feed two or possibly three. I ordered two sandwiches: Chicken Parm and a Rocky Marciano. The Chix Parm was loaded with a beautiful cutlet and a nice sauce/cheese combo. The Marciano was next level. Stacked meats and a perfect amount of spices and condiments. The bread the bread the bread!! So good. read more

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I can't believe I've never written a review for Lioni's. I also can't believe these sandwiches didn't make the top sandwich in New York City list. I don't even eat most meat and have multiple options here. We usually get the Joe Pepitone which has smoked mozzarella and the thinnest, most delicious fried eggplant stacked like 10 high. I also add the basil or bruschetta mix, and lettuce. The sandwiches are all in the high teens $16-18, and when you add things on it can be over $20, but my husband and I usually split a sandwich or I save half and reheat it the next day in the air fryer. I also highly recommend getting smoked mozzarella on a sandwich, or just to take home. read more

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I've been coming to Lioni's my entire life. I grew up 76th street. I used to walk to over at least two times a week and get a sandwich. I've defended and argued for Lioni's for 20 years. They used to PACK OUT the sandwiches to the point it was hard to take a bite. You always felt like yeah it was pricey, but you got your monies worth. Now, not so much. I live in Staten Island and still travel back to get a sandwich but, now they put maybe half what they used to inside. I thought maybe it was a fluke but it's been like that the last 3 times I went. I hope they know that's how they're being made now and I hope they go back to generous servings because the price is only going to go up! Come on Lioni's!!!!! I remember going to the beach, bringing a sandwich, eating half, and then half for dinner when I got home later in the day! I had one yesterday felt like it was more bread than anything. Still love you guys so I'm giving 5 stars, but come on, get it together over there. EDIT** Btw, my go to is prosciutto and mozzarella with a little olive oil. Obviously if you get chicken cutlets or something like that the size will be the same, I'm talking about sliced meat and cheese. read more

They make over 150 different kinds of sandwiches from every celebrity you can think of all kinds of combinations and one is better than the other or they can make up something totally new at your request read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Iconic sandwich shop in Brooklyn! I got the chicken vodka parm and it was out of this world. The bread was very crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. The cutlets were thin and flavorful and the fresh mozz is outstanding. Must try place for sure. Cashiers were super friendly and quick. Inside, Lioni's is very OLDSCHOOL, old wooden tables and stools, old pictures and newspapers, it's a gem! I will mention, parking can sometimes be a little tricky. Might have to spend a couple minutes looking for a parking spot if one is immediately available on the same block. Definitely worthwhile afterwards though. read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - Chicken Parm with vodka. - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Great place to grab Italian heroes. The choices can be a bit overwhelming. I used the online ordering to help me narrow down the options (since I wanted pesto). I love the theme, naming heroes after notable Italians. I got #21 Jerry Vale, it was light and refreshing since I wanted something heavy. I recommend this place. read more

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Run, don't walk over to Lionis. There's so many options to choose from, and there's bound to be a sandwich that matches your taste buds. I've gone by a few times now, and there's always something new to try. They range from cold cuts to fried chicken sandwiches to meatballs, you name it. The size of these sandwiches are also quite big and filling. I find myself eating half and always saving the other half for later. I prefer the sandwiches with chicken cutlets, but I've also heard good things about the other varieties. Like seriously, look at that filling. As for the wait, it isn't too long, but it did take a good 15 mins one time, but it was well worth it. I'm not even a sandwich person, and I'd glady come back any day. read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

This is a 99% carryout place for the most amazing Italian heroes in Brooklyn. I believe they have over 200 kinds of heroes and they have a specific name for each after Italian celebrities,#1 the Frank Sinatra. The heroes are huge so if you don't have a big appetite, you have to save half or split it with someone and that's always hard because you have to make a decision on which one you want. Also sell fresh mozzarella , olives, Italian bread, etc... the ambience is like a deli. There's a few small tables where you could sit if you really want to, but most people take it out. And you can order in advance by calling them. If you're really in the mood for a great Italian hero. This is a place you have to check out because it is truly outstanding. read more

The hero I had was very good, eggplant parm on a seeded hero,the bread is very good,the service was good. Very good Italian heroes shop.many heroes listed , will come again soon. read more

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If you wonder why anyone would leave the food Mecca of Italy and come to Brooklyn, come check out the sandwiches at Lioni! Just amazing ingredients, fair prices, and subtle confidence that you are having some uniquely delicious Italian American fare. First, the bread is crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside. The cured meats are delicious and not too salty, or fatty. And the combinations always work perfectly! Have not had a bad sandwich yet! Second, the value. One sandwich can feed 2 people and cost under $20. The freshness and quality of the fillings would command $25 at most places. Third, it's a unique family owned business in south Brooklyn. As gentrification spreads, these shops become more rare and enjoyable. Give them a try and come hungry! read more

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Ordered again yesterday, these sandwiches knocked it out of the park. Lioni is the real deal. I got the 118, 55, and 102 with prosciutto balls. Wonderful preparation as usual. Thanks Lioni read more

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This is the ultimate sandwitch shop/old school italian deli with over 150 different choices for sandwitches. It has an old school 90s vibe with a family homely vibe. There is a big selection of snacks and drink selection to go with your entree choice. I had the classic brooklyn roast beef sandwhich with gravy and mozz. The beef was juicy and thicc cut the au ju added a depth of flavor. I wish the bread was toasted and think the gravy should have been better seasoned with more salt. I also wish there was more gravy. There are so many options I would go again to try different options read more

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Amazing.. delicious.. fresh.. excellent quality and service!! Ordered the best ever party size hero.. the best we ever had.. they included mayo and mustard packets.. macaroni and potato salad was the best we ever had.. thank you read more

Awesome sandwiches with great ingredients to make delicious combinations! Generous portions so good to share with family and friends!

Lioni Italian Heroes provided exceptional catering for our park picnic. Jeff, who delivered the order, went above and beyond by bringing everything directly to our spot, so we didn't have to lift a finger. We ordered both the Italian and American 3-foot heroes, and they, along with the sides, were fantastic! I highly recommend checking out this sandwich shop! read more

Yikes, how did I never know about Lioni's until the other week? As someone who was born and raised in NYC, I should have at least heard of this place in passing *hangs head in shame*. Anyway, of all things, a work event brought Lioni to my attention, and after doing some quick research, I got really excited to check them out. Lioni specializes in sandwiches, and they have a huge selection to choose from - it's almost overwhelming the number of sandwiches they have. They can also make their sandwiches into wraps, and in addition to the aforementioned they have a selection of Italian appetizers and salads. I opted to have my sandwich as a wrap and went with the Dan Marino which contained grilled chicken, mozz, roasted peppers, olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper. The wrap was great - everything was super fresh and was one of the best sandwiches I've had in a while. I also had some pasta salad which again had great flavor and was super fresh. Overall, I'm really glad I got to try Lioni; I only scratched the surface here, and definitely want to return off work hours to try more of their selections. If what I had was indicative of their whole menu, then this is a place that shouldn't be missed. read more

I recently stopped by this sandwich shop before heading to the beach for the day. My girlfriend and I were looking to enjoy some sandwiches while we hung out at the beach, and this place had lots of great reviews, so we had to try it. We ordered a chicken cutlet sandwich with fresh mozzarella and roasted peppers; as well as a loaded Italian sandwich. Both of these sandwiches were excellent. I especially enjoyed the Italian one. So many different meats and everything blended together perfectly. The bread they used was nice and fresh; but also crispy. Just the way I like it. That chicken cutlet hit the spot, too, as we really enjoyed their mozzarella on the sandwiches. Overall, this place was awesome. read more

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I love this place subs are huge / flavors on point Everytime . Prices aren't bad . And always fresh . Huge variety never gets the same thing twice read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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They make awesome sandwiches here. All with their house made mozzarella. I highly recommend all to come and try their sandwiches. My family and friends try to choose different sandwiches each time in hopes of trying all the sandwiches on the menu. We created a document of all the ones already tried and we marked it on a menu at home. For me, I like to stick to my usual but perhaps one day I'll try something new. read more

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Shame on me for living so close to Lioni's and only trying their sandwiches a handful of times! Most recently, I ordered delivery via Yelp during a super busy work-from-home day. With little time to think about a meal, I decided to go with something tried and true. And FILLING. I ordered the Dean Martin PLUS. lettuce and sweet peppers. It was piled HIGH with prosciutto and fresh mozz, and I was pleasantly surprised to see that the sweet peppers were actually stuffed with breadcrumbs and seasonings. You really do get your money's worth with these sandwiches. They are MASSIVE. Made on an entire hero. Thankfully I managed to share it and also save some for the next day. I wouldn't be able to put a solid dent in this bad boy on my own. Top quality ingredients. I have only great things to say about Lioni's. read more

Lioni Italian Heroes - 2 Dean Martin plus lettuce and sweet peppers - Cheese Shops Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Lioni Italian Heroes is the place to be if you love sandwiches , and I mean sandwiches, over 100 to choose from , each sandwich has its own celebrity name. Can't have a sandwich with out their pickles and salads. Must have . You can dine in, carry out and have it deliver. They serve fast while preparing it fresh . The place is decorated with memorable portraits on the wall. A real Italian scenery and atmosphere. After places you order they move fast to get it ready. read more