New Kids on the Block — A Food Column Returns

Cappone’s on Abingdon Square – OMG

By Arthur Schwartz

Credit: Cappone’s Instagram

I went into Cappone’s in early March after petitioning with a bunch of candidates at Abingdon Square. I hadn’t noticed it before. I walked in, looked at an amazing array of sandwiches, and ordered one. My sandwich included roasted chicken, Prosciutto, Soppressata, Fresh Mozzarella, Sweet Roasted Peppers, and honey mustard. (Soppressata is a traditional, dry-cured Italian salami made from coarsely ground pork, seasoned with spices like black pepper and chili, and pressed into a flattened, oblong shape during curing, giving it a dense texture and bold, savory flavor).

Ernesto Cappone. Photo credit: Arthur Schwartz.

While waiting I spoke to Ernesto Cappone, the owner. Cappone’s was originally established by Nunzio and Filomena Cappone in 1969, featuring deep roots as a family-owned Italian salumeria. The family’s original business was a stall located in the Gansevoort Market.

They later expanded and opened a highly popular, beloved take-out counter at Chelsea Market. Cappone’s officially made the move to their current West Village location at 11 Abingdon Square around mid-to-late 2023, opening as a dedicated stand-alone sandwich shop operated by the second-generation owner, Ernesto.

When my sandwich came, I took a bite and almost fell over. I am not sure I have ever eaten anything with so much flavor.

Cappone’s regular menu has a wide variety of sandwiches. They range from the Sinatra, which includes Imported Italian Tuna, Fontina Cheese, Caponata of Eggplant, to the Gabriella, made with imported Mortadella, Burrata, Pistachio Pesto, Arugula, to a vegetarian sandwich, the Pavarotti, made with Smoked Mozzarella, Caponata of Eggplant, and Arugula.

Sandwiches are in the $20-25 range, but these are just not heroes. They are culinary marvels. You can order on line for delivery, or endure a short wait and go eat in the park. You will be amazed!