New York City continually stands as an icon of American culture in tourism, politics and even food. Many dream of one day occupying the great city, plunging into anything from the nightlife to the career opportunities.

Now, a little piece of New York City has been brought to Fresno. The New York Deli not only captures the excitement of the Big Apple but also offers the charm of friendly ownership.

The New York theme is apparent throughout this sub shop. A large American flag hangs on the walls alongside firefighter memorabilia in remembrance of Sept. 11. Makeshift street signs show cross streets like Union and Broadway Avenues. Firefighter jackets hang above a stand where the restaurant sells Sept. 11 shirts and hats along with firefighter emblems.

Apart from the decor, the color scheme of maroon and white gives the restaurant a distinct twist from any normal delicatessen while also honoring Sept. 11 veterans.

A flat-screened TV plays the latest sports games, while easy listening music is playing in the background. There is a vast assortment of wines and beers, giving the deli a more elitist feel.

Owner Andy Isolano moved to Fresno after living in Manhattan most of his life. Isolano worked for the New York firefighting department when the Twin Towers were bombed in 2001. After involvement in such a catastrophe, it is no wonder that Isolano opted to move to Fresno and transfer his efforts into a much different and low-stress business.

The New York Deli offers just what the unfamiliar customers assume – deli sandwiches as well as toasted options. All sandwiches are served on the customer’s choice of white, whole wheat, swirl rye, sourdough, Kaiser roll, onion roll or Hero Roll.

After examining the menu, the Manhattan, one of the NYFD sandwich choices for $7.59, looked the most appetizing to me (turkey, bacon, melted swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo) and I ordered it to go. Though I was served my meal a little slowly, the sandwich came heated by request, with the generous portions of smoked turkey making up for any lost time.

While the menu is massive, the New York Deli did not surpass Subway or Quiznos in flavor (perhaps because of the sandwich’s dry flavor) the restaurant’s furnishings sets it beyond the average sub shop.

However, the New York Deli outshines its contemporaries because of the unique sandwiches offered. Alongside classics like ham and swiss and a hot Reuben, the New York Deli offers a special sandwich called the NYFD for $7.59. Each one is named after New York City districts, such as Soho, Manhattan, Queens and the Bronx.

Besides the more popular NYFD sandwiches, the New York Deli offers meals with choice of chips and soft drinks along with the man sub, all for about $9. The deli also offers healthier options, such as the vegetarian sandwich and the grilled chicken sandwich. A variety of salads are also available from about $4-$7. Classics like potato salad are offered, which customers can substitute for chips or order one on its own for $4.

Though the New York Deli lacks outstanding flavors, the restaurant’s premise recovers the menu’s lost ground. Visit the New York Deli on the northeast corner of Willow and Nees. For more information, contact the owner at (559) 324-9400.

For more restaurant reviews, visit Ricchuiti’s Apr. 16 article, Sun, surf style Wahoo’s.