Amorina Cucina Rustica

- 624 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Amorina Cucina Rustica, nestled in the vibrant heart of Brooklyn's Prospect Heights neighborhood, stands as a testament to authentic Italian cuisine. This beloved local spot, a project of owners Ellen Fishman and Albano Ballerini, takes its name and inspiration from Albano’s grandmother, Amorina, who ran a café in post-war Italy. The restaurant’s decor and atmosphere are designed to transport you back to that nostalgic, cheerfully eclectic time, creating a dining experience that feels as warm and inviting as a living room. With a focus on traditional Roman-style thin-crust pizza and hearty pasta dishes, Amorina Cucina Rustica is a go-to destination for those seeking a taste of Italy right here in New York City. The establishment prides itself on using the finest ingredients, including organic flours for their daily-made dough, organic tomatoes, Lioni Mozzarella, and Slow Food-certified salumi. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this charming eatery promises a delightful and flavorful experience for pizza and pasta lovers alike.

The menu at Amorina Cucina Rustica is a celebration of Italian tradition and the seasons, with a commitment to local and organic sourcing. The highlight is, without a doubt, their Roman-style pizza, known for its perfectly thin and crispy crust. From classics like the Margherita to more inventive pies such as the Will to Live—a rotating daily special—there’s a pizza for every palate. The pasta dishes are equally enticing, with house-made sauces and fresh ingredients that capture the essence of Italian home cooking. Beyond the food, the restaurant offers a carefully curated selection of beverages, including a great wine list featuring Italian varietals, and a range of beers and cocktails. The casual and cozy atmosphere, combined with a family-friendly vibe and a focus on quality ingredients, makes Amorina Cucina Rustica a cherished neighborhood spot that has earned a place in the regular dining rotation for many New Yorkers.

Amorina Cucina Rustica is conveniently located in the Prospect Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Situated at 624 Vanderbilt Ave, the restaurant is a short distance from the popular Prospect Park, making it an ideal spot for a meal after a day of exploring. For those driving, paid street parking is available in the vicinity. The establishment is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. Its central location and welcoming environment make it a perfect meeting spot for friends and family looking for a casual and enjoyable dining experience.

Amorina Cucina Rustica provides a wide array of services to cater to different dining preferences. These include:

• Dine-in: Enjoy the warm, cozy, and casual atmosphere of the restaurant's interior or opt for outdoor seating when the weather permits.

• Takeout: Conveniently pick up your order to enjoy at home, with Margherita and rustica slices also available for a quick grab-and-go option.

• Delivery: The restaurant offers no-contact delivery service, bringing delicious Roman-style pizza and other Italian dishes right to your doorstep.

• Catering: For events and gatherings, Amorina Cucina Rustica provides catering services to bring their authentic flavors to your special occasion.

• Brunch: The restaurant is open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, offering a special menu that includes pizzas, pasta, salads, and egg dishes.

• Reservations: Guests can make reservations, which is particularly helpful for planning a dinner during peak hours.

• Counter Service: For those on the go, counter service is available for a quick and easy ordering experience.

Amorina Cucina Rustica is distinguished by several features that contribute to its popularity and reputation as a neighborhood gem.

• Authentic Roman-Style Pizza: The star of the show is the thin, crispy, and flavorful Roman-style pizza, made with house-made dough using organic flours and natural starters. The menu features a wide variety of creative and classic toppings, including the popular "Will to Live" daily special.

• Quality Ingredients: The restaurant is committed to using high-quality, local, and organic ingredients, including organic tomatoes, Lioni Mozzarella, and Slow Food-certified salumi, ensuring a fresh and authentic taste in every dish.

• Diverse Menu: Beyond pizza, the menu includes a range of "Piatti Piccoli" (small plates), "Le Paste" (pasta dishes), and a special kids' menu with kid-sized pizzas and pasta options, making it a great spot for the whole family.

• Great Beverages: The establishment features a well-regarded wine list, a selection of beers and ciders, and a variety of cocktails, including unique frozen cocktails, perfect for pairing with your meal.

• Cozy Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as casual and cozy, with a warm, lively, and family-friendly environment. It’s an ideal setting for a relaxed dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

• Weekly Specials: To keep the menu fresh and exciting, Amorina offers a rotating "Will to Live" pizza and special pastas and salads based on seasonal ingredients.

• Merchandise: In addition to food, the restaurant offers branded merchandise like canvas totes, sweatshirts, and baseball caps, allowing customers to take a piece of the Amorina experience home with them.

For reservations, questions, or to place an order, you can contact Amorina Cucina Rustica using the following information:

• Address: 624 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA

• Phone: (718) 230-3030

When visiting Amorina Cucina Rustica, there are several standout items that come highly recommended by regulars. The "Will to Live" special pizza is always a great choice, as it highlights the restaurant’s dedication to seasonal and creative flavors. Another fan favorite is the "Zucchine" pizza, which features thinly sliced zucchini, basil pesto, and pecorino cheese, offering a uniquely delicious flavor combination. On the pasta front, the Meat Lasagna is a consistently praised dish, described by customers as amazing and rich with a house-made beef ragu. The Eggplant Parmigiana is another notable option, celebrated as decadent and cheesy.

If you're looking for a quick and easy option, consider the grab-and-go Margherita or Rustica slices. For smaller appetites or for kids, the Kids Size Margherita Pizza and Kids Spaghetti "Burro & Parmigiano" are popular choices. The homemade Focaccia is also a simple yet delicious starter that many customers enjoy. When it comes to beverages, the great wine list is a draw for many, and the introduction of frozen cocktails like the Frozen Negroni provides a refreshing twist. Finally, don't forget to ask about the daily special desserts, which often include delights like Flourless Chocolate Cake or Tiramisu. These carefully crafted dishes and drinks embody the restaurant's commitment to authentic, high-quality Italian food, making a visit to Amorina Cucina Rustica a truly rewarding experience.

Amorina Cucina Rustica

624 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA