Brooklyn is a treasure trove of fantastic Italian cuisine that can transport you straight to Italy with just one bite.
From cozy family-owned trattorias to modern eateries, the neighborhood offers a variety of dining experiences that suit every taste and occasion. Finding the perfect spot for a delicious Italian meal can be a delightful adventure.
I’ve compiled a list of some of the best Italian restaurants in Brooklyn that reflect both tradition and innovation.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Margherita pizza or a gourmet pasta dish, this guide will help you discover the best places to satisfy your Italian food cravings.
Join me in exploring these local gems that bring the authentic flavors of Italy to Brooklyn.
1. Cent’Anni
I recently visited Cent’Anni, a fantastic Italian restaurant in Brooklyn. As soon as I walked in, I felt a cozy and welcoming vibe. The place is known for its fresh, handmade pasta, and it didn’t disappoint. The pasta was perfectly cooked and paired well with a robust Italian wine list.
The atmosphere at Cent’Anni is intimate, making it an ideal spot for a date night or a casual dinner with friends. One of my favorite features is the garden patio. It provides a lovely outdoor setting, perfect for enjoying a meal on a warm evening. The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall great experience.
Cent’Anni has been family-owned and operated since 2012. The owners clearly put a lot of heart into the place, and it shows. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Italian comfort food or looking to try something new, this spot has you covered. It’s a gem in the neighborhood, and I can’t wait to visit again.
Rating: 4.4 (899 reviews)
Location: 742 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: (718) 942-5202
Website: Visit Website
2. Scottadito Osteria Toscana
I recently had the chance to visit Scottadito Osteria Toscana in Brooklyn, and it was a delightful experience. From the moment I walked through the door, the farmhouse-like setting made me feel right at home. The rustic charm of the decor, paired with the warm lighting, created a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The menu offered a variety of dishes inspired by Northern Italy. I tried the homemade pasta, and it was spectacular. They also cater to different dietary needs, including gluten-free options. I couldn’t resist ordering dessert, and their tiramisu was simply divine. If you love Italian food, this place is a must-visit.
What caught my attention was their exceptional service. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure every need was met. They also offer a tempting brunch menu, which I plan to try on my next visit. For those looking to celebrate, they host intimate private events, adding a special touch to any gathering.
Rating: 4.6 (840 reviews)
Location: 788A Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Contact: (718) 636-4800
Website: Visit Website
3. Aita
I had the pleasure of dining at Aita, an Italian restaurant tucked away in Brooklyn. The moment I stepped in, I felt like I was walking into a friend’s home. The intimate and rustic setting is warm and inviting, perfect for a cozy meal.
Aita’s menu features traditional Italian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Each dish evokes nostalgic flavors while offering fresh takes inspired by various beloved regions. The locally sourced ingredients come from farms in Upstate New York and green markets, adding a special touch to every bite.
Their wine and bar programs are equally impressive. The wine selection emphasizes natural winemaking and sustainable processes. The bar boasts artisanal and local spirits, highlighting brands led by BIPOC and minorities. It’s clear that Aita prioritizes both quality and sustainability.
The hospitality at Aita is top-notch. Chef Roberto Aita creates an atmosphere where patrons can share moments of emotion and memory, making every dining experience exceptional. It’s a true gem in the heart of Brooklyn that leaves a lasting impression.
Rating: 4.6 (624 reviews)
Location: 132 Greene Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: (718) 576-3584
Website: Visit Website
4. Rucola
Rucola is a cozy spot in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn. The atmosphere is warm with lumber-lined walls, making it feel very inviting. It’s perfect for an intimate dining experience. I enjoyed the Northern Italian cuisine, which felt very farm-to-table. The flavors were fresh and delicious.
Reservations are taken only for parties of six or more. For smaller groups, they keep most tables for walk-ins, which I found quite convenient. I called ahead to be placed on the daily waitlist, which saved me some waiting time when I arrived.
I recommend Rucola for anyone craving a hearty Italian meal. Their blend of local ingredients with Northern Italian recipes creates a unique taste that stands out. The staff is friendly, and the service is prompt and attentive, making my time there even more enjoyable.
Rating: 4.5 (1122 reviews)
Location: 190 Dean St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Contact: (718) 576-3209
Website: Visit Website
5. Aurora Brooklyn
I recently visited Aurora Brooklyn, and it was a delightful experience. Nestled in Williamsburg, this Italian restaurant offers a rustic charm that’s hard to find. The Tuscan-styled dining room and large, leafy garden create a cozy atmosphere perfect for any meal.
What I loved most was their commitment to freshness. The pasta, gelatos, and desserts are all made in-house. Their cheeses, imported daily from Italy, are some of the freshest I’ve tasted. They also prioritize locally grown organic produce and hormone and antibiotic-free meats and fish.
The patio is a gem, especially in the warmer months. It’s open-air, filled with vines, and feels quite intimate. In colder months, it becomes enclosed, maintaining its cozy vibe. The space is also great for events, accommodating up to 100 guests.
Rating: 4.4 (1,311 reviews)
Location: 70 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Contact: (718) 388-5100
Website: Visit Website
6. Pasta Louise Restaurant
I recently visited Pasta Louise Restaurant, and I loved the warm vibe the place has. It’s a cozy spot for enjoying a meal with friends and family. The staff welcomed me with big smiles, making me feel right at home.
Their menu is full of classic Italian dishes, which taste absolutely delicious. I tried their breakfast sandwiches and a pasta dish. Both were amazing and made me want to come back for more. They also offer pasta kits and catering, which I thought were pretty neat options.
One thing that stood out to me was how passionate they are about bringing people together through food. You can really feel it when you dine there. If you enjoy Italian cuisine in a friendly, warm setting, I highly recommend checking out Pasta Louise.
Rating: 4.5 (470 reviews)
Location: 1114 8th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Contact: (347) 725-3883
Website: Visit Website
7. Mariella
I recently had the chance to visit Mariella in Brooklyn, and I was not disappointed. This intimate neighborhood eatery offers a cozy, brick interior that makes you feel right at home. The ambiance was warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing evening out.
The menu features a variety of local, seasonal Italian dishes. Everything I tried was flavorful and fresh. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the sauces were rich and savory. They really take pride in their ingredients here.
Mariella also offers delivery and takeout, which is great for those times when you want to enjoy a nice meal at home. The service was quick and friendly, making the whole experience enjoyable from start to finish.
Rating: 4.6 (469 reviews)
Location: 492 6th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Contact: (718) 499-2132
Website: Visit Website
8. Ferdinando’s Focacceria
I recently had the pleasure of eating at Ferdinando’s Focacceria in Brooklyn. This Italian restaurant has been around since 1904, and it truly feels like stepping back in time with its vintage decor.
The menu features classic Sicilian dishes. I tried the rice balls and panelle sandwiches, which were both absolutely delicious. The flavors were rich, and the portions were just right.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff who make you feel at home. It’s a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. The authenticity of this place really stands out in every bite.
Rating: 4.6 (487 reviews)
Location: 151 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Contact: (718) 855-1545
Website: Visit Website
9. Leuca
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Leuca, a Southern Italian restaurant located in Brooklyn. From the moment I walked in, the rustic-chic decor caught my eye. The atmosphere felt warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed evening out.
The menu features a range of Southern Italian dishes. I tried their pasta and it was incredible. The flavors were rich, and it tasted like it was made from scratch. Their wood-fired pizzas are also a must-try. Each bite was deliciously crisp and flavorful.
One of the highlights of my visit was the service. The staff was friendly and attentive, adding to the overall great dining experience. They were knowledgeable about the menu and made excellent recommendations based on my preferences.
Rating: 4.4 (952 reviews)
Location: 111 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Contact: (718) 581-5900
Website: Visit Website
10. Belli Osteria
I just had an amazing dinner at Belli Osteria, and I can’t wait to go back. This cozy spot on Fulton Street is a must-visit if you love Italian cuisine. The atmosphere is intimate, with candlelit tables that make it perfect for a romantic evening or a relaxed night out with friends.
Belli Osteria prides itself on using homemade techniques, especially with their pasta. You can taste the difference in every bite. The pasta is fresh, with a texture that you can only get from something made by hand. The rigatoni with pesto genovese is a real highlight, bursting with flavor from cherry tomatoes and pecorino cheese.
Their burgers are also a treat. Made from grass-fed Angus beef from local farms, they’re juicy and flavorful. I tried the grilled rib-eye burger with Gorgonzola cheese, roasted peppers, and caramelized onions. It came with truffle-parmesan french fries, which were divine. They even offer a gluten-free bun option.
I arrived just in time for Happy Hour between 5 PM and 7 PM. It was great to enjoy some delicious bar bites and cocktails at reasonable prices. The $7 bar bites and $10 cocktails really made my evening special.
Rating: 4.5 (468 reviews)
Location: 860 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: (347) 799-1230
Website: Visit Website
