Castell's

- 222 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223

Castell's, nestled in the vibrant Gravesend neighborhood of Brooklyn, has quickly established itself as a premier dining destination, successfully redefining the landscape of kosher cuisine in New York City. This is far more than just a restaurant; it is an experience where the rich, authentic flavors of Italian and contemporary coastal pescatarian cuisine meet the highest standards of kosher excellence. For New Yorkers seeking a sophisticated, refined, and unforgettable night out, Castell's offers a truly unique proposition, blending the culinary mastery of a fine-dining establishment with a warm, luxurious ambiance. The restaurant's philosophy is centered on proving that dietary laws are not a limitation, but a platform for creativity and artistry, a promise they deliver on with every meticulously crafted dish.

Located at 222 Avenue U, Castell's has created a space that transports diners far from the bustle of Brooklyn, into an elegant 3,800-square-foot setting reminiscent of an ancient, luxurious fortress—a nod to its name, which means "castle" in Catalan. It’s a place where white oak paneling, herringbone floors, and thoughtful lighting design converge with luxurious elements like imported linens, fine Ginori china, and Riedel glassware. The attention to detail in both the decor and the service has earned Castell's a reputation as one of the best kosher restaurants in the borough, and a serious contender in the broader New York City fine-dining scene. Whether you are craving perfectly charred, wood-fired pizza, delicate handmade pasta, or expertly prepared fish, this Gravesend gem offers a culinary journey that honors Italian heritage while embracing modern refinement.

Location and Accessibility

Castell's is conveniently located at 222 Avenue U, right in the heart of Gravesend, Brooklyn, NY 11223. This location makes it accessible for residents across Brooklyn and the greater New York region. While Brooklyn is famously vast, the restaurant is situated in an area well-served by local public transit, making a sophisticated night out possible without the hassle of driving. The nearest public transit connections offer multiple subway and bus options for patrons traveling from various parts of the city.

For subway riders, the restaurant is within a short walk of several key stations. The Avenue U station is roughly a 7-minute walk away, providing access to the

F and FX lines, which connect to Manhattan and Queens. Additionally, the 86th Street station is about a 6-minute walk away, serving the N and W lines. The 25th Avenue station, which provides access to the D line, is also about a 10-minute walk. Multiple bus routes service the immediate vicinity, including the B1, B3, and B4 lines, with the Avenue U/W 8 St bus stop being only about a minute's walk from the restaurant's entrance, ensuring a direct and convenient transit experience.

While parking can sometimes be a consideration in this part of Brooklyn, the excellent network of subway and bus options provides New Yorkers with reliable alternatives, allowing guests to relax and fully enjoy the fine dining experience, including the expertly crafted cocktail and wine menu.

Services Offered

• Kosher Italian and Pescatarian Cuisine: The menu features a delightful fusion of traditional Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh fish, seafood, and high-quality dairy, all prepared with the finest kosher ingredients (Halav Yisrael, Pat Yisrael, with supervision from the Vaad Hakashrus of Flatbush).

• Fine Dining Service: Guests receive impeccable, attentive, and knowledgeable service from a professional, old-school staff, ensuring a truly five-star experience from arrival to departure.

• Handmade Pastas and Signature Dishes: The kitchen specializes in creating fresh, hand-rolled pastas and innovative Italian entrées, such as the famous Chiocciole alla Vodka Piccante and Dover Sole filleted table-side.

• Artisanal Wood-Fired Pizza: A dedicated pizza bar with dual wood-burning ovens showcases artisanal dough baked to perfection for classic pizzas like the Margherita "Classica."

• Curated Kosher Wine Program: A world-class wine list, curated by Sommelier Ralph Mann, features selections from premier vineyards in France, Italy, Israel, and the US, all chosen to seamlessly complement the kosher Italian menu.

• Refined Cocktail Program: The bar crafts classic and creative cocktails, including house-made vermouths and kosher-compliant spirits, like the inventive Truffle Hog and the spicy Yalla Jimador.

• Desserts and Dolci: House-made desserts are available to complete the meal, including daily assortments of creamy gelatos and sorbets, chocolate mousse, and the unique Baba au Rhum Monaco Style.

• Reservations: Available for booking to secure a table for an intimate dinner or a larger gathering.

Features / Highlights

• Upscale and Sophisticated Ambiance: The 3,800-square-foot interior is designed with a blend of modern luxury and comfort, featuring white tablecloths, plush banquettes, imported linens, and elegant decor that creates a warm, castle-like atmosphere.

• Chef-Driven Menu: The culinary direction is led by Chef Vitaliy Pinitsa, whose fine dining background and philosophy of elevating simple dishes through exceptional ingredients and precise techniques define the menu.

• Kosher Redefinition: Castell's is recognized for pushing the boundaries of kosher dining, offering a refined experience that stands proudly alongside the city's finest non-kosher establishments.

• Signature Bar and Lounge: A stunning, fully functional bar serves as a centerpiece, offering a rare and much-praised high-end kosher cocktail program.

• Pescatarian Focus: The menu is entirely pescatarian, allowing the kitchen to focus its expertise on fresh fish, crudo, and high-quality dairy dishes.

• Interactive Dining: Experience unique service touches, such as the table-side filleting of the Whole Dover Sole, enhancing the fine dining theatricality.

Contact Information

To plan your visit or inquire about reservations, you can reach Castell's using the following contact details:

Address: 222 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA

Phone: (718) 908-0060

Mobile Phone: +1 718-908-0060

What is Worth Choosing

For New Yorkers, choosing Castell's is a decision to prioritize quality, refinement, and an experience that genuinely elevates dining out. The consistent feedback from local patrons speaks volumes: the restaurant delivers on its promise of outstanding food, impeccable service, and a captivating ambiance.

Customers repeatedly highlight the unparalleled service and atmosphere. One reviewer enthusiastically noted, "5-Star service, food and ambiance. This place really takes it to the next level!" The feeling of being treated like "royalty" is a common sentiment, emphasizing the staff's professionalism and attentiveness. The bartender, in particular, is celebrated for being "fantastic - creative, professional, and attentive," a rarity in any dining sector, let alone the kosher scene.

Culinary standouts are abundant. The handmade pasta dishes, such as the Capellini Al Forno (described as a sophisticated, adult twist on mac and cheese), and the unique appetizers, like the surprisingly refreshing Tuna Carpaccio, are must-try items. Even the usually simple option of pizza becomes a culinary highlight; one satisfied customer declared, "Who would go to a place for pizza?! I would! And it was NOT a mistake." This enthusiasm confirms the success of the wood-fired pizza bar.

Ultimately, Castell's is worth choosing because it provides a complete, top-tier dining experience where no detail is overlooked. It’s a destination for an incredible night out, perfect for celebrations, intimate dates, or simply an occasion where you want fine Italian cuisine and hospitality that genuinely makes you feel special. The commitment to high-quality kosher standards, combined with the mastery of Italian culinary technique, makes Castell's a standout choice in a city known for its demanding palate. It’s an investment in an evening of exquisite food, world-class cocktails, and an atmosphere that truly feels like an escape.

Castell's

222 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA