Brooklyn's Best Pizza and Pasta: A Guide to Delicious Bites
Brooklyn, a borough known for its vibrant culture, artistic spirit, and diverse cuisine, is also a haven for pizza and pasta lovers. From classic slices to inventive creations, Brooklyn's food scene offers something for everyone. Here's a guide to some of the best pizza and pasta spots in the borough:
Pizza Perfection
1. Emily: This popular spot in Williamsburg is renowned for its creative pies, featuring unique toppings like roasted garlic, speck, and burrata. Their signature "Emily" pizza with whipped ricotta, garlic, and oregano is a must-try.
2. Lucali: Known for its long wait times and cash-only policy, Lucali is a true Brooklyn institution. This intimate pizzeria serves up some of the best coal-fired pies in the city, with a simple menu of just a few options.
3. Roberta's: Located in Bushwick, Roberta's is a sprawling complex with a focus on farm-to-table ingredients. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven and feature seasonal toppings. Be sure to check out their "Bee Sting" pizza with spicy honey.
4. Lombardi's: This historic pizzeria in Nolita is considered the oldest in the United States. While not technically in Brooklyn, it's a short subway ride away and worth the trip for its classic New York-style slices.
5. Joe's Pizza: This no-frills spot on Carmine Street has been serving up delicious, affordable pizzas since the 1970s. It's a perfect spot for a quick slice or a casual dinner.
Pasta Paradise
1. Lilia: Located in Williamsburg, Lilia is known for its elegant pasta dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Their cacio e pepe is a must-try, as is their tagliatelle with lamb ragu.
2. Al Volo: This cozy restaurant in Greenpoint serves up classic Italian fare, including delicious pasta dishes like spaghetti alla carbonara and rigatoni with vodka sauce.
3. The Four Horsemen: This popular spot in Williamsburg offers a seasonal menu of creative pasta dishes, often with unique flavor combinations. Try their pappardelle with lamb ragù or the ricotta gnocchi with cherry tomatoes and basil.
4. Prime Meats: This restaurant in Williamsburg is known for its elevated American cuisine, but their pasta dishes are not to be missed. Their handmade ricotta cavatelli with sausage and peppers is a crowd-pleaser.
5. Brooklyn Roots: This restaurant in Prospect Heights focuses on farm-to-table ingredients and offers a seasonal menu of delicious pasta dishes.
Beyond the Basics
For those looking for something a little different, Brooklyn offers a range of unique pizza and pasta options:
1. Pizza Loves Emily: The sister restaurant of Emily, Pizza Loves Emily serves up gourmet pizzas with an Asian twist. Their "kimchi pizza" with gochujang sauce is a unique and flavorful experience.
2. The Vanderbilt: This restaurant in Williamsburg offers a sophisticated take on classic Italian dishes, with creative pasta dishes and gourmet pizzas.
3. Frankies 457: This casual spot in Carroll Gardens serves up delicious and affordable pizzas with a wide range of toppings. Their "Frank's Pizza" with sausage, peppers, and onions is a local favorite.
4. Brooklyn Star: This restaurant in Bushwick offers a creative menu of pizzas with a focus on local ingredients. Their "mushroom pizza" with ricotta and truffle oil is a must-try for mushroom lovers.
5. Mile End Deli: While known for its Montreal-style smoked meat, Mile End Deli also serves up delicious pizza with a unique twist. Their "Matzah Ball Pizza" with matzah ball, chicken, and gravy is a must-try for a truly unique experience.
With its diverse culinary scene, Brooklyn offers endless opportunities to explore the world of pizza and pasta. Whether you're looking for a classic slice or a creative twist, you're sure to find a delicious meal in the borough.
