The cheese had nearly liquefied.
Most likely that's from my carrying the wrapped, bagged sandwich for ten minutes before stopping to eat — but maybe I'm on to something. This was a superb cheese steak ($7.50), its flavor sharpened by fried onions and (my less orthodox choice) hot pepper jack.
There's atmosphere to spare at Tony's (known to some as Losurdo Bros.): As I observed the imported spices, the half-dozen varieties of taralli, and the flasks of blackberry liquor behind the counter, one fellow from the neighborhood made an entrance, proclaiming, "I come here to hang out wit you guys." Later, an older gentleman placed his order in Italian. In what dialect, I couldn't tell you; all I could make out, in just this intonation, was "Pahs-tah-fah-Zhool."
Also note: The menu changes daily, and while cold deli items are available throughout the week, hot food is on offer only Monday through Friday.
Tony's Italian Bakery & Deli (a.k.a. Losurdo Bros.)
410 2nd St. (Adams-Grand Sts.), Hoboken, New Jersey
201-659-4766
