This Hole-In-The-Wall Joint Has The Best Sandwich In CT, Ranking Says

CONNECTICUT — In Connecticut, flashy diners and ostentatious restaurants aren’t the only places to find exceptional food. According to a recent ranking, their opposites are actually a better option.

In its ranking of the 50 Best Hole-In-The-Wall Sandwich Shops In Each State, Chowhound singled out the flagship location of Gaetano's Deli and Market in Stratford.

The eatery takes its inspiration from Little Italy in the Bronx, and its sandwich menu seems inspired by Martin Scorsese's filmography. We don't have any hard data, but we're still pretty sure "The Goodfella," "The Bronx Bomber," "The Raging Bull," "The Sophia Loren" and "Bada Bing Bada Buffalo!" are responsible for 80 percent of the capicola, soppressata, provolone, mozzarella and prosciutto consumption in Fairfield County.

Both Food Network and CT Magazine have named Gaetano's Stratford site, at 1478 Barnum Avenue, as the best deli in the state. The eatery is also hanging meat in Westport and Shelton.

Chowhound, an influential online food community and forum dedicated to finding “undiscovered” gems hidden in a region’s food scene, said the 50 sandwich shops on the list are places “where tradition and simple care yield unforgettable flavors.”

The ranking, based on consistent praise from loyal customers on social media, press chatter, and industry awards, represents the consummate “guide to the unpretentious heart of American sandwich culture,” Chowhound said.

“Whether you’re chasing a perfectly toasted grilled cheese, a smoky barbecue sandwich, or a cold-cut masterpiece layered just right, this guide is your roadmap to discovering the hidden gems that define America's sandwich culture, one humble counter and unforgettable bite at a time,” according to Chowhound.