Rocky’s NY Deli brings authentic taste of the Empire State to Sandfly

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — Tucked into the Sandfly community just outside Savannah, Rocky’s NY Deli & Italian Catering has become a destination for locals, transplants and curious visitors searching for an authentic taste of New York.

Rocky’s NY Deli & Italian Catering in Sandfly

What began as a leap of faith for owner Bill Vissicchio has evolved into one of the area’s most talked-about dining spots, drawing loyal regulars and a steady stream of first-time customers. But Bill says the deli’s success wasn’t always guaranteed.

“If you talked to me after the first two years, I was like, ‘This ain’t going to work.’ But things just kept growing.”

Today, the deli is known for oversized sandwiches, house-made meats and a commitment to doing things the old-fashioned way. Bill credits both word-of-mouth recommendations and the unique character of Sandfly for helping the business thrive.

“Sandfly is like its own little world,” he said. “When people find out about it, they make the trip.”

The restaurant’s customer base reflects that appeal. While Rocky’s enjoys a strong core of regulars, Bill is pleased by the number of new faces that walk through the door each day.

“What surprises me are the first timers that come in every day,” he said. “They’ve usually heard about us from a friend of a friend of a friend.”

At the heart of the menu is the deli’s signature Italian sandwich, known simply as “The T,” stacked with nearly three-quarters of a pound of Italian meats. The cheesesteaks have also developed a devoted following, while the pastrami and corned beef stand out because they are made entirely in-house.

“We do everything,” Bill said. “We brine and smoke the brisket. And we make the pastrami and corned beef from scratch.”

Family traditions and New York influences are woven throughout the menu. Some recipes come directly from family members, while others are inspired by iconic delis Bill grew up visiting. One favorite is the Malverne Special, a sandwich featuring roast beef, fresh mozzarella and bacon on garlic hero bread — a tribute to the deli in his hometown of Malverne, New York.

One of the biggest points of pride at Rocky’s is the fresh mozzarella — or “moots-uh-rell” as Bill pronounces it. He makes anywhere between 5 and 15 lbs. of the traditional Italian cheese a day. While many sandwich shops rely on pre-packaged ingredients, Bill believes fresh mozzarella helps distinguish his deli from the competition.

“It’s what sets us apart,” he said. “That fresh taste — when it’s right, it’s right.”

The mozzarella appears throughout the menu, from sandwiches to pasta dishes. Its creamy texture and fresh flavor blend naturally with other ingredients, creating a taste customers notice immediately.

“It’s a draw and people appreciate it,” he said.

Bill Vissicchio, owner of Rocky’s NY Deli & Italian Catering, makes 5 to 15 lbs. of mozzarella cheese by hand every day.

Beyond the food, the Rocky’s offers a visual celebration of New York culture. The walls are lined with photographs, sports memorabilia and tributes to Bill’s favorite musicians and teams. He took many of the photos himself or was gifted them by friends. Menu items and sandwich names often reference New York landmarks, neighborhoods and sports figures, creating an experience that resonates with homesick Northeasterners and curious Southerners alike.

Looking to the future, Bill hopes to expand the deli’s selection of prepared Italian meals, including lasagna, chicken parmesan and additional ravioli offerings. But for new, his focus remains on maintaining the quality and authenticity that built Rocky’s to what it is today.

“It’s just everything that I do here. I’ve been working since I was 14 years old. I get up every morning at four at 4 a.m. to get here. I love what I do every day. And hopefully that shows.”

Some of the memorabilia at Rocky’s NY Deli honoring Bill’s home state of New York.

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