"Seeded or unseeded?" asked the counterman, already in motion toward the bread bins. After dithering for several minutes before settling on my sandwich order, I didn't need to give this much thought; I usually favor a nice seeded roll when they're fresh, and these looked the part. "A little vinegar?" the counterman asked over his shoulder, as he laid down overlapping slices of fresh mozzarella in a double row. Sure, I said; a few tart shakes would be just the thing.
Italian-American delis are comfortable ground for me, so these sorts of questions helped to fine-tune my prosciutto, mozzarella, and roasted pepper hero ($9). Half was devoured on the spot, half traveled home for later. But what about all the times when language is a barrier, not just overseas but here in New York, too? What sort of customized orders am I missing out on, I wonder? What questions are countermen and counterwomen not even troubling to communicate?
Also shown: a hand-lettered sign for housemade sauces. Since 1978 G&R has been turning out its own pasta, mozzarella, and sausage, too.
G&R Italian Deli
1928 Williamsbridge Rd. (Neill-Rhinelander Aves.), Morris Park, Bronx
718-931-3450
