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Heros & Villains is praised for its unique and flavorful sandwiches, quick service, and eco-friendly practices. Customers appreciate the quality of the food and the friendly staff.

Heros & Villains - A Beloved Sandwich Spot in New York City's Essex Market District.

Nestled within the vibrant Essex Market on 88 Essex Street, Heros & Villains carved out a distinct niche for sandwich lovers in Manhattan. Known for its generous, flavorful heroes and inventive bowls, this restaurant quickly became a go-to spot for foodies and locals seeking hearty, satisfying meals that combined quality ingredients with a quick-service vibe.

Heros & Villains was celebrated for its vibrant menu featuring unique sandwiches like the Sando Calrissian Hero and the Kahuna Hero—both crowd favorites. Customers raved about the quality of their beef and pork options, comparing some burgers to the caliber of Shake Shack, with soft buns and perfectly balanced flavors. Not to be overshadowed, the fries were often singled out as some of the best around, crisped to perfection and seasoned just right, holding their texture even after 30 minutes.

Beyond taste, the eatery drew appreciation for its commitment to eco-friendly practices, using compostable trays that resonated with environmentally conscious diners. The fast yet friendly service made it a convenient choice for quick lunches or casual dinners, beloved by food explorers and families alike.

Locating Heros & Villains and ordering options

Tucked towards the back of Essex Market in Manhattan's bustling Lower East Side, Heros & Villains was a bit of a hidden gem. The spot offered both takeout and delivery, catering to busy New Yorkers and visitors wanting a quick but memorable meal experience. Contactless payment via NFC was accepted, underscoring their modern approach to convenience.

 community feedback highlights the restaurant's flavorful sandwiches, quick service, and eco-friendly ethos. Diners consistently praised the friendly staff and the quality of both their pork and beef creations, making Heros & Villains a cherished part of New York’s culinary scene.

Frequently Asked Questions about Heros & Villains

 No, Heros & Villains permanently closed in 2021.

What were the most popular items on the menu?

 The Sando Calrissian Hero and The Kahuna Hero were among the most popular items.

 Yes, they offered vegetarian options like the Sesame Sprouts Hero and Sabich Bowl.

North America

United States

Heros & Villains is a vibrant restaurant located at 88 Essex St, New York, NY 10002, nestled in the heart of Manhattan. Known for its delicious sandwiches and crispy fries, this eatery stands out in the bustling Essex Market. With a menu that features both classic and innovative options, it’s a must-visit for food lovers seeking a quick yet satisfying meal in New York City.

At Heros & Villains, diners can indulge in a variety of mouthwatering options, including:

Bodega Bomb - a flavorful pork sandwich that has received rave reviews.

Big Kahuna - a beef sandwich that many consider a standout.

Crispy Fries - often highlighted as the best fries in the area, perfectly salted and crisp.

Situated in the lively Essex Market, Heros & Villains is conveniently located near several notable attractions in Manhattan. Visitors can explore:

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum, which offers a glimpse into the immigrant experience.

The Bowery, known for its vibrant nightlife and art scene.

SoHo, famous for its shopping and cast-iron architecture.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, Heros & Villains is the perfect spot to grab a delicious meal while exploring the vibrant culture of New York City.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM2MGM3ZE5nEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYRR6z4BZwokRg8KiLzhs_xY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM2MGM3ZE5nEAE

Good spot but a little hard to find. It’s towards the back of Essex market. The food comes out pretty fast. It’s a little pricey for fast food type service. The food is solid the sub is tasty and filling while the burgers are close to shake shack level, which is good. Soft buns. The fries taste like McDonald’s fries but less processed.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNVeDU2TXhnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYRR6z4BZwokRg8KiLzhs_xY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNVeDU2TXhnRRAB

Stopped by since I can’t resist a giant sandwich. Had the bodega bomb, which is their pork sandwich, and got a side of fries with a soda. The service was excellent and it didn’t take too long to get my sandwich. While it may seem pricey for a sandwich, it is a very tasty and filling sandwich. Actually the real star was the fries; these are easily the best fries I’ve had in ages. They were crisped and salted perfectly, even holding up after 30m (left a few on my tray to test). Will definitely stop by for more fries and to check out the other sandwiches. As another reviewer mentioned, everything comes on a compostable tray, which was a nice touch.

Update: came back and tried the big kahuna sandwich (beef); it was terrific. If you are torn between the pork and beef options, I think the beef is slightly better. Pulled pork fries were awesome too, toppings did not make them soggy and everything came together well.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNFbnFxUzZRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYRR6z4BZwokRg8KiLzhs_xY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNFbnFxUzZRRRAB

Pricey but the sandwich was great, glad they gave me a compostable tray too.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ4Zzc2UXlnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYRR6z4BZwokRg8KiLzhs_xY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ4Zzc2UXlnRRAB

Amazing! We ordered a build your own sandwich at home pack for a small group - we just had to heat the chicken and the directions for constructing the sandwiches were super easy. Pick up was quick and Essex Market was very clean. Fantastic sauces. Everyone who had the sandwiches loved them. Sauces were so good, chicken cooked perfectly, and the hibiscus coolers were lovely and felt really special.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNVajh6V0l3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYRR6z4BZwokRg8KiLzhs_xY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNVajh6V0l3EAE

Been eyeing this place for a while and finally decided to try it. I got the Big Kahuna and fries to go. I expected the food to be solid if not spectacular, but I was wrong. The food was great! The sandwich was really good, Everything on it worked and the cheese sauce did a good job tying it all together. The only flaw was that the veggies made it so there was always water dripping off the sandwich as I took a bite. The fries are lightly battered and a little skinner than standard fries, but they're amazing.  I'll definitely be back for both sandwiches and fries. I'd like to see them add more sandwiches (should be plenty of things they can do with the amount of ingredients they have). Also, I think a few dipping sauces would be a great add to the menu.

Heros & Villains: Best Sandwiches in New York's Essex Market

Heros & Villains was a popular sandwich shop located in Essex Market, New York City, known for its unique and flavorful sandwiches and eco-friendly practices.

History of Heros & Villains in Essex Market New York City.

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's Essex Market at 88 Essex Street, Heros & Villains carved out a distinctive niche as a beloved sandwich shop in New York City. From its opening in 2019, this establishment quickly earned a reputation for crafting uniquely flavorful sandwiches that delighted both locals and visitors alike. What set Heros & Villains apart was not just its mouthwatering menu but also its commitment to sustainability, serving food on compostable trays and embracing eco-friendly practices that resonated with the environmentally conscious crowd.

Heros & Villains opened its doors in 2019, quickly becoming a go-to spot for sandwich enthusiasts craving hearty, flavorful options. Located toward the back of Essex Market, the shop was somewhat tucked away, yet it managed to attract a dedicated customer base. Visitors praised the fast and friendly service, the substantial sandwiches like the "Bodega Bomb" pork sandwich and the "Big Kahuna" beef sandwich, and especially the fries—often described as some of the best in the city due to their perfect crispness and seasoning.

Beyond the great taste, customers appreciated the thoughtful touches like compostable trays that aligned with modern eco-conscious lifestyles. The sandwiches were noted to be filling and crafted with care, with soft buns and tasty fillings that kept people coming back. Heros & Villains also adapted to changing times by offering takeout and delivery options, making their sandwiches and fries accessible to a wider audience. The blend of comfort food quality and sustainable service created a memorable dining experience within the iconic Essex Market setting.

Despite its success and loyal following, Heros & Villains permanently closed in 2021. While its physical presence ended, the shop left behind an enduring impression as a place that merged delicious, creative sandwich fare with a commitment to sustainability—qualities that continue to inspire food lovers and businesses in New York City's vibrant culinary scene. Its brief but impactful history within Essex Market remains a testament to how thoughtful food and mindful practices can build a beloved community spot.

Key highlights of Heros & Villains’ history

2019: Heros & Villains opens in Essex Market, establishing itself as a flavorful sandwich destination.

Emphasis on sustainability with compostable serving trays and eco-friendly practices.

2021: The shop closes, leaving a lasting mark on New York City’s food scene despite its brief tenure.

Takeout

Delivery

Good for Children

Heros & Villains is a culinary gem located in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, offering a delightful blend of contemporary dining with innovative takes on classic flavors and street food inspiration. The vibrant atmosphere and eclectic decor create a unique dining experience, where each dish tells a story, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike.

Heros & Villains

A selection of hearty and decadent hot sandwiches and bowls, featuring unique combinations and flavors.

Sando Calrissian Hero

Proud Mary Hero

The Kahuna Hero

Sesame Sprouts Hero

The Black Sabich Hero

Sesame Sprouts Bowl

Sabich Bowl

Heros & Villains Menu

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's vibrant Essex Street Market, Heros & Villains serves up a mouthwatering array of hearty and decadent hot sandwiches and bowls. This culinary gem is known for its creative flavor combinations and fresh ingredients, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers craving unique and satisfying meals. Every dish is crafted to deliver bold tastes and a fulfilling experience, perfect for anyone seeking a delicious New York food adventure.

While Heros & Villains primarily focuses on substantial mains, their accompaniments like the famous crispy fries are a highlight. Known for their perfect crispness and just the right amount of salt, these fries stand out as an ideal complement to the rich flavors of the sandwiches.

At the core of the menu are the robust hot sandwiches and nourishing bowls, each boasting distinct ingredients that make every bite memorable.

A fried chicken hero roll stacked with miso aioli, stoney sauce, crunchy cabbage, and tangy pickles, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of umami.

Deluxe fried chicken paired with crispy bacon, roasted jalapeño, aioli, pickles, and creamy cheese sauce nestled in a soft hero roll for a smoky, spicy kick.

A grass-fed beef sandwich stacked with fresh lettuce, tomato, onions, peppers, pickles, cheese sauce, aioli, and spicy ketchup — a harmonious blend of savory and tangy flavors.

A vegetarian delight featuring fried Brussels sprouts, pickled carrots, smoked chili-maple glaze, pickled hot peppers, and toasted sesame seeds on a hero roll for a perfect balance of smoky sweetness and spice.

A Middle Eastern-inspired hero with falafel scotched egg, marinated eggplant, creamy hummus, pickled carrots, cabbage, hot peppers, and toasted sesame seeds, delivering a rich and spicy plant-based option.

A nourishing bowl with fried Brussels sprouts, chili-maple glaze, toasted sesame seeds, scallions, house salad, and miso vinaigrette — a fresh and flavorful vegetarian choice.

A vibrant bowl featuring falafel egg, house hummus, marinated eggplant, hot peppers, house salad, and miso vinaigrette, offering a perfect balance of textures and bold flavors.

While the menu focuses on savory sandwiches and bowls, the establishment is known for its unique special offerings and seasonal dishes, including build-your-own sandwich packs perfect for groups and special occasions. The use of compostable trays reflects their commitment to sustainability, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Complement your meal with refreshing beverages like the beautifully crafted hibiscus coolers, praised for their special flavor and refreshing qualities, making them an excellent accompaniment to the bold flavors of the sandwiches and bowls.

Whether you're grabbing a quick takeout or enjoying a cozy meal at Essex Street Market, Heros & Villains offers satisfying options for all tastes. Known for its fast service, fresh ingredients, and bold flavor profiles, this spot is perfect for foodies, digital nomads, and locals seeking New York’s creative sandwich scene. The sustainable packaging and standout sauces add an extra layer of appeal, making every visit a deliciously responsible choice.

 with quick service and easy pickup options.

 with compostable trays and eco-friendly packaging.

 catering to meat lovers and vegetarians alike.

Savor culinary artistry at Heros & Villains in Manhattan. Delight in unique dishes that redefine comfort food. Book your table today!

Experience Unique Dining at Heros & Villains NYC

New York County

A variety of unique sandwiches including the Sando Calrissian Hero and The Kahuna Hero.

Sandwiches

Hearty bowls like the Sesame Sprouts Bowl and Sabich Bowl.

Bowls

Heros & Villains in Manhattan New York City: A Gourmet Sandwich Adventure at Essex Market 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Manhattan's Essex Market, Heros & Villains offers a flavorful escape for food lovers seeking bold and unique sandwich experiences. This gem at 88 Essex Street is famed for its inventive sandwiches and hearty bowls, making it a must-visit spot for anyone craving top-tier fast casual dining in New York City.

At Heros & Villains, sandwiches take center stage with standout creations like the Sando Calrissian Hero and The Kahuna Hero. Priced around $9.50, these sandwiches feature soft buns and generous fillings that rival some of the best fast-food burgers in the city in both taste and satisfaction. Whether you're a meat lover or enjoy bold, crafted flavors, these sandwiches promise a hearty and fulfilling meal that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.

Beyond sandwiches, the menu features delicious bowls like the Sesame Sprouts Bowl and the Sabich Bowl, each priced around $10.50. These bowls deliver a wholesome, satisfying meal packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors—perfect for those craving a lighter yet fulfilling option during their New York City adventures.

: Heros & Villains takes pride in serving meals on compostable trays, enhancing the eco-friendly dining experience at Essex Market.

: The fries here are celebrated for their perfect crispness and seasoning, holding their crunch even after some time, making them a standout side dish beloved by regulars.

: Despite being a fast-casual spot, the food arrives quickly and the staff is attentive, creating a pleasant and efficient dining atmosphere.

Heros & Villains welcomes guests of all ages and offers takeout and delivery options that cater to busy New Yorkers and visitors alike. Whether grabbing a quick lunch during a bustling city day or enjoying a laid-back meal with family, you’ll find the menu accessible and satisfying.

Locate the spot toward the back of Essex Market to discover this culinary treasure.

 for a flavorful beef option that ties together cheese sauce and fresh toppings beautifully.

Don’t miss out on the legendary fries—perfectly crisp and a fan favorite that stands up well even after some time.

Discover Heros & Villains, NYC's favorite sandwich shop, known for unique flavors, eco-friendly practices, and quick service. Visit today!

Heros & Villains: Top Sandwich Spot in New York

Enjoy delectable sandwiches like the Sando Calrissian Hero at Heros & Villains. Grab your meal now for an unforgettable taste!

Irresistible Sandwich Menu at Heros & Villains NYC

Plan your visit to Heros & Villains in Essex Market, New York. Find tips and itineraries for the best food experience!

Heros & Villains: Best Sandwiches in New York's Essex Market

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