New York Daily Photo Analytics

Monday, July 02, 2007

Alidoro

Do you want to know a real NYC secret? Alidoro. This tiny sandwich shop at 105 Sullivan Street is one of the best in NYC. I was introduced to it in 1991 by an Italian friend and neighborhood resident. There is an area of the South Village and neighboring SOHO which has a number of Italian residents and businesses - places like Rafetto's, Vesuvio Bakery, Villa Moscioni, Tiro A Segno, Joe's Dairy, Faicco's Pork etc. This sandwich shop was originally opened in 1986 as Melampo Imported Foods by Alessandro Gualandi, a native of Florence, who had a reputation as one of the most difficult shop owners around (some said grouchy, others temperamental artiste). You wouldn't dare ask for any changes or modifications - all of his sandwiches were ordered by name (Julie, Pinocchio, Arzibubo, Geppetto, etc.). I was reprimanded for asking for a little mustard - subsequently I would take my sandwich back to my office and make adjustments there - click here for a short review about the old shop and its owner. In 2001, the business was taken over by Walter Momente, a trained chef from Italy. A few changes have been made, like the addition of small tables - great since the only place to sit previously was a playground nearby. And the new owner has a sunny disposition. But the sandwiches and quality are the same. There are 40 sandwiches to choose from (menu here), each on their own fresh Italian loaf (white or whole wheat) with options for sfilatino, tramezzino, focaccia or semolina bread. All the best ingredients are used: sopressata, prosciutto, salami, olive paste, mozzarella, marinated peppers, arugula, bel paese, sun dried tomatoes, salami, and their signature dressing. The sandwiches are large enough that for many, half is a meal. Another thing hasn't changed - call ahead or get there before 12:30, otherwise there are lines out into the street ...

9 comments:

Merisi said...

Wonder what Alessandro Gualandi is doing nowadays. Helping out in the kitchen of the Soup N..i? :-)

Fénix - Bostonscapes said...

Definitely my type of place! I will pay Alidoro a visit (or two) next time I'm in NYC. Thanks!

Brian Dubé said...

merisi;
Next time I'm in there I will ask the current owner what Alessandro is doing.
Brian

Anonymous said...

I looked at your pictures and read your story and my mouth began to water. I can smell and taste the sandwiches and I have no idea why.

Abraham Lincoln
American Gold Finch—

Doug said...

After visiting your site for the past week my wife and I are going to visit in August. You should work for the departmeant of tourism.

lv2scpbk said...

If I ever get back to New York I'll look up this shop.

Anonymous said...

Careful; once the word gets out it'll eventually become a chain ;)
I love the table and chairs outside...

Anonymous said...

I have eaten there and the sandwiches are truly amazing! And the shop has been decorated in a way that you feel you stepped in a little place in Italy.

Missy,Mrs and Mum said...

Wow it looks beautiful. I imagine they get a few regulars there!