Bites Nearby: When a Deli is an Institution, Sandwiches Take on Lives of their Own

Overview: actually needs little introduction. This East Setauket institution has been serving standard deli fare along with locally famous sandwich creations for about 14 years now. Customers tend to identify with favorite sandwiches the way sports fans identify with favorite teams.

Beverages: Whether summer or winter, four words say it all: try the iced tea.

Traditional menu items: You can't go wrong with a reuben, chicken club or tuna melt ($6.95 each) or Italian hero ($8.49). Crisp pickles and savory side salads complete the deli experience. Egg sandwiches are served in the morning, and burgers, fries, wings and assorted hot entrees are also available.

Famous for: Monstrous sandwiches named after local schools and celebrities, landmarks and friends. "The Boone" ($8.29), a chicken cutlet sandwich with melted American cheese, bacon and Russian dressing, is so cherished that it made a recent appearance as the unofficial symbol of the Class of 2010 at a . Admittedly, this Patch editor's personal favorite – The Comsewogue ($8.75), a hot chicken cutlet topped with melted muenster, peppers and teriyaki sauce on a warm garlic hero – isn't even a place in Three Village proper. But where else can you stand in line behind a scrawny teenager who orders a "Death Wish" ($8.29) or a petite elderly woman who orders a "Gasm" ($8.75)?

Se-Port Deli
301 Main Street, East Setauket
(631) 751-2432
Owner: Wisam Dakwar
Price: $$
Notes: Cash only; ATM on premises.
Features: Outdoor seating; proximity to East Setauket Pond Park.