Real Italian Heros

A local attraction, Lioni’s Italian heroes, is a must for the connoisseur of heroes, with names that pay tribute to “acclaimed Italian role models that have influenced our lives in more ways than one.” The Salumeria offers sandwiches like the “Rock Marricino” made with sweet cappicolla ham, Lioni’s homemade fresh mozzarella, sun dried tomatoes, vinegar, olive oil, oregano, black pepper and salt, or The Yogi Berra, that’s, ham, bologna, white American cheese, lettuce, mayo and tomatoes. In fact, the menu consists of over a hundred and fifty in all.
It’s not just the flashy names people come for, “you can’t find a place like this anymore” says Louie Martino, a regular “It ain’t like these big chains; it’s how things are supposed to be.” It’s small, with just a few tables. Signs dominate the environment. The largest one, over the Salumeria itself, loudly proclaims, “The King of fresh Mozzarella.” When you walk in, you are bombarded with even more. The brick wall, and wood paneling do in fact import an old-world feeling. “I wish I lived here. The food is so much better than at home,” Martino jokes.
The place is not just old world, it’s Brooklyn. Everyone has the energy, accent, and attitude that the Boro is known for. “Sorry I don’t speak to reporters,” is all the counterman will say, though he smiles.
I content myself with ordering a Rocky Marrcino.It tastes every bit as fresh as guaranteed.As I’m eating, Martino comes over and volunteers, “ Hey, you know Cha-chi comes here?” An 80’s child, it takes me a second to realize what he’s talking about. Scott Baio is a Dyker Heights resident celebrity. Scanning the crowded walls, I find his autographed picture verifying this to be true. Noticing my gaze, Martino asks, “What, you don’t believe me?” Shaking his head, he saunters away, muttering “damn reporters.” Shrugging, I go back to my sandwich, thinking, “with a sandwiches this good in your mouth, who needs to talk?”
Browse the menu at www.lioniheroes.com