al di là Trattoria

- 248 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215

For over two decades, al di là Trattoria has been a cornerstone of Brooklyn's culinary landscape, a true neighborhood staple on Fifth Avenue in Park Slope. In a city saturated with Italian restaurants, al di là—which translates to "beyond" in Italian—truly lives up to its name, consistently delivering an authentic taste of Northern Italian and particularly Venetian cuisine that draws discerning diners from across the metropolitan New York area. This isn't your standard red-sauce joint; it’s an intimate, old-world haven offering dishes crafted with care, simplicity, and a steadfast commitment to high-quality, seasonal ingredients.

The restaurant's foundation is built on the vision of co-owner and celebrated Chef Anna Klinger, who, alongside her partner, has cultivated a warm, rustic atmosphere reminiscent of a charming Italian trattoria. This dedication to authenticity and quality has earned al di là consistent praise from local patrons and critics alike, including recognition from the Michelin Guide. The dining room itself is a delightful step back in time, featuring a comfortable, old-style setting with vintage tin ceilings, tile floors, and classic bentwood chairs that immediately envelop guests in a cozy, intimate, and romantic ambiance.

For New Yorkers, al di là offers a genuine culinary experience that feels both rooted in tradition and refreshingly current. It's a place where the simple excellence of homemade pasta and robust Northern Italian main courses—like the highly praised braised rabbit—take precedence over fleeting trends. As a proudly women-owned establishment, it contributes to the diverse and thriving entrepreneurial spirit of Brooklyn, making it a standout choice for an exceptional dining outing.

Location and Accessibility

Located at 248 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, al di là Trattoria is perfectly situated in the vibrant and easily navigable Park Slope neighborhood. This prime location places the restaurant on one of the area’s main commercial thoroughfares, surrounded by charming shops, other eateries, and the beautiful brownstones that define the neighborhood.

Accessibility via public transportation is straightforward for locals:

• The closest subway station is Union Street, served by the R train. The restaurant is a very manageable walk from this stop, which makes it highly accessible from many points in Brooklyn and Manhattan.
• Other nearby transit options are available via a slightly longer walk, connecting to the area's extensive network.
• For those driving, the restaurant is located at the cross street of Carroll Street, and while street parking can be a challenge in Park Slope, the location offers a mix of free street parking, paid street parking, and access to paid parking lots nearby.

The neighborhood is pleasant for a pre- or post-dinner stroll, especially for those who encounter a wait time. The intersection of 5th Avenue and Carroll Street provides a lively backdrop that enhances the overall dining experience.

Services Offered

Al di là Trattoria provides a comprehensive range of service options designed for maximum convenience and enjoyment, catering to the needs of busy New Yorkers and those seeking a relaxed meal.

• Dine-in Service: The heart of the al di là experience, offering comfortable seating and attentive table service for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
• Outdoor Seating: Highly sought-after outdoor seating options are available, perfect for enjoying a meal during warmer New York days and evenings.
• Takeout and Delivery: The restaurant offers Curbside pickup, standard delivery, and takeout, ensuring patrons can enjoy their favorite dishes at home.
• Full Meal Services: Dining options cover Brunch (on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), Lunch (on Friday and Saturday), Dinner, and Dessert.
• Catering: Specialized catering services are available for events and gatherings.
• Happy Hour: The venue provides happy hour drinks and happy hour food, offering great value to local crowds.
• Beverage Selection: A full offering including Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and a "Great wine list," complemented by excellent Coffee service.

Features / Highlights

Al di là Trattoria’s enduring success is built on several key highlights that resonate deeply with the New York dining community.

• Authentic Northern Italian Cuisine: The menu focuses specifically on the rustic, comforting, and hearty fare of the Veneto region, a distinction that sets it apart.
• Handmade Pasta Excellence: Patrons rave about the homemade pasta, with specialties like Casunziei (red beet and ricotta ravioli with poppy seeds), Tagliatelle al ragu (veal, pork, and beef ragu), and the homemade black spaghetti with octopus confit being highly celebrated.
• Signature Main Courses: The restaurant is one of the few places in NYC consistently featuring and expertly preparing Braised Rabbit with olives and polenta—a classic Northern Italian dish.
• Acclaimed Dessert: The Pear and Chocolate Cake is frequently mentioned as a "perfectly balanced and memorable" highlight.
• Atmosphere: The ambiance is a rare and perfect blend of Casual, Cozy, Romantic, and Upscale, making it suitable for a date night, family meal, or an intimate gathering.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: Recognized for its "Great cocktails" and "Great wine list," providing perfect pairings for the rich Italian menu.
• Women-Owned Business: The restaurant proudly identifies as women-owned, contributing to the diversity and character of the local business community.
• Inclusivity and Accessibility: The restaurant is LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace, while also featuring Wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, making it welcoming for all crowds and needs.

Contact Information

To plan your visit to this Park Slope favorite, here is the essential contact and location information. Due to its popularity, prospective patrons are strongly advised to consult the restaurant's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours and reservation policy details.

• Address: 248 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, USA
• Phone: (718) 783-4565
• Website: http://www.aldilatrattoria.com/
• Sample Operating Hours (Note: Always check official website for changes):
  • Monday to Thursday: Dinner only, 5:00 PM–9:30 PM
  • Friday: Lunch 11:00 AM–3:00 PM; Dinner 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
  • Saturday: Lunch 11:00 AM–3:00 PM; Dinner 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
  • Sunday: Brunch/Lunch only, 11:00 AM–3:00 PM

What is Worth Choosing

For New Yorkers seeking an exceptional and reliable Italian dining experience, al di là Trattoria is unquestionably worth the effort. Its decades-long history as a neighborhood pioneer and its consistent quality mean that when you choose al di là, you are choosing a proven champion of authentic cuisine.

What makes it stand al di là (beyond) the competition is the genuine focus on Northern Italian specialties, which offers a distinct and often lighter alternative to more common regional Italian fare in the city. The commitment to homemade pasta, the rarity of finding an expertly prepared dish like the Braised Rabbit, and the sheer quality of every plate—from the vibrant starter salads to the simple, perfect desserts like the Pear and Chocolate Cake—are compelling reasons to visit.

Furthermore, while reservations are highly recommended for dinner, the restaurant’s lively nature, cozy atmosphere, and attentive service make the often-long wait times manageable and worthwhile. For those seeking a truly romantic night out, a special family dinner, or simply a consistently excellent meal in a beautiful setting, al di là provides the perfect backdrop. The fact that it is a women-owned establishment with a strong, inclusive ethos and high accessibility standards only adds to its appeal as a conscientious and beloved Brooklyn fixture. Choose al di là for a timeless taste of Venice, right here in Park Slope.

al di là Trattoria

248 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, USA