I Cavallini

- 284 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211

In the bustling culinary scene of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, I Cavallini stands as a testament to the art of Italian dining with a modern, New York twist. Located at 284 Grand St, this restaurant is the highly anticipated second act from the celebrated team behind The Four Horsemen, a Michelin-starred staple. While its sibling restaurant is known for its New American and wine-centric focus, I Cavallini is its roomier, more relaxed sibling with a deep appreciation for Italian soul. The name itself, which translates to "the little horses," is a charming nod to its origins. This is not a restaurant that seeks to rigidly recreate a traditional Italian dining room; instead, it filters the essence of Italian cuisine through a Brooklyn lens, resulting in a menu that is both familiar and full of pleasant surprises. The atmosphere is casual, yet the quality of the food and the thoughtful service are nothing short of exceptional.

I Cavallini has quickly established itself as a place with an incredible "vibe," a destination for those seeking a dining experience that feels special without being overly formal. The decor and ambiance, with vintage-feeling black-and-white tiled floors and soft lighting, create a space that is both cozy and romantic. A customer review praised the "vibes, service, and every team member" for making a night "perfect." This is a place where every element, from the food to the wine and the service, is designed to come together to create a memorable evening. The culinary approach is what the team calls "Italian-leaning seasonal New York," a philosophy that allows for creativity while staying true to the core principles of Italian cooking. Dishes are crafted with a deep understanding of flavor and technique, but they are presented in an approachable way. It's the kind of restaurant where you can come in for a full dinner or simply for a bowl of pasta and a glass of wine, and the staff will treat you with the same warmth and dedication.

The success of I Cavallini is built on a foundation of excellence, a direct result of the experience and passion of its team, many of whom have crossed the street from The Four Horsemen. The focus on high-quality ingredients, from imported beans from Umbria to fresh, handmade pasta, is evident in every bite. The restaurant's commitment to delivering a great experience is clear, and it’s what keeps New Yorkers coming back. It’s a place that manages to be both a neighborhood restaurant and a destination for foodies, striking a rare and perfect balance. For anyone in New York looking for a place to have an amazing meal that feels both authentic and innovative, I Cavallini is a must-visit that truly delivers on its promise of a wonderful time.

I Cavallini is ideally situated at 284 Grand St in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. This vibrant and easily accessible neighborhood is a major plus for New Yorkers and tourists alike. The restaurant is located between Havemeyer and Roebling streets, just a short walk from some of the area's main attractions and transportation hubs. The location is very convenient for public transport, with the L train at Bedford Avenue and the G train at Metropolitan Avenue / Lorimer Street stations within a reasonable walking distance. This makes the restaurant an effortless destination for a night out, whether you are coming from Manhattan or another part of Brooklyn. While the restaurant focuses exclusively on a dine-in experience, its central location makes it a great spot to meet friends or to stop by after exploring the neighborhood. As it is a new and highly anticipated spot, it is a great addition to the area's already excellent dining scene. The restaurant has more seats than its sibling establishment across the street, making it more accommodating for guests.

The atmosphere at I Cavallini is a key part of its appeal. It is designed to be a "casual" space, which belies the high quality of the food and wine. The romantic lighting and thoughtful acoustics create a perfect mood for a relaxed dinner where conversation is easy and enjoyable. The restaurant's design, with a centerpiece open kitchen, adds a sense of theater and connection to the cooking process, while the vintage-feeling decor and reclaimed ceiling beams contribute to a space that feels both rustic and refined. The a-la-carte menu, with distinct sections for antipasti, primi, secondi, and contorni, allows for flexibility in dining, whether you want a full meal or just a few shared dishes. The restaurant accepts reservations, which is highly recommended due to its popularity. It is a perfect spot for groups, couples, and even solo diners who appreciate a great atmosphere and exquisite food. The team’s focus is on providing a good time and a comfortable experience, which is what New Yorkers want most from a great restaurant.

I Cavallini's menu is a carefully curated selection of Italian-inspired dishes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu is divided into traditional Italian course sections, making it easy to navigate and build a complete meal.

• Antipasti: The appetizers are inventive and flavorful. A standout dish mentioned by a customer is the Fried Eel Toast with Pine Nuts and Golden Raisins, which transformed a skeptic into a "super fan." Another unique offering is the Mussel Panzanella with Lovage and Pickled Green Tomatoes.
• Primi (Pasta): The pasta is a true highlight and is praised for its "excellent texture." The menu includes a variety of handmade pastas with unique sauces, such as Bucatini with Sungold Pomodoro and Ricotta Salata, Farfallone with Calabrian Chili Butter and Smoked Pancetta, and Trofie with Pesto and Belper Knolle.
• Secondi (Main Courses): The main courses are equally impressive. A customer review raved about the Golden Chicken, calling it "the best chicken I’ve ever had," which is a significant endorsement. Other options include Lamb Sausage with Avocado Squash, Cherries, and Fennel Pollen and Bluefin Tuna Belly with Chervil Gremolata and Risina Beans.
• Contorni (Sides): The side dishes are not an afterthought. They are fresh, seasonal, and carefully prepared to complement the main courses. Examples include Braised Leeks with Bagna Cauda and Chilled Cucumbers with Colatura Di Alici.

I Cavallini is distinguished by several key features and highlights that set it apart in the competitive New York dining scene.

• Acclaimed Ownership: The restaurant comes from the same team behind the Michelin-starred and James Beard award-winning The Four Horsemen. This background brings a level of expertise and quality that is rare to find.
• Exceptional Wine List: The restaurant boasts a 100-bottle all-Italian natural wine list. The sommelier is praised for guiding guests to "unique, delicious glasses" that enhance the dining experience. The wine list is assembled to be approachable and full of surprises, a nod to the late co-founder and wine savant Justin Chearno.
• Perfectly Cooked Food: Reviews consistently highlight the quality of the cooking, from the "bread of my dreams" focaccia to the perfectly textured pasta and "deeply flavorful" main courses. The ability to perfectly prepare a seemingly simple dish like roast chicken is a testament to the chef's skill.
• Handmade Pasta: The focus on handmade pasta is a significant feature that speaks to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition.
• Cocktails & Ambiance: The bar offers "delicious" and "creative" cocktails that can "transport us to the Amalfi Coast," adding a vibrant dimension to the experience. The atmosphere, with its romantic lighting and thoughtful sound design, is a major highlight.

For New Yorkers interested in visiting this celebrated new spot, here is the contact information:

Address: 284 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA

Phone: (Based on search results, a phone number is not listed, and reservations are made through Resy. It is recommended to check their official website or Resy for the most up-to-date contact details and booking information.)

For anyone in New York looking for an exceptional Italian meal, I Cavallini is an outstanding choice. What makes it worth choosing is its ability to blend the best of traditional Italian cooking with a fresh, modern sensibility. The restaurant’s pedigree, as the sister establishment to the acclaimed The Four Horsemen, ensures a high level of quality in everything from the expertly crafted dishes to the meticulously curated wine list. The focus on handmade pasta, unique ingredients like fried eel and 'nduja, and seasonal preparations makes for a dining experience that is both exciting and deeply satisfying. While the main courses may not be a hit for everyone, the appetizers and especially the pasta are consistently praised. The romantic and cozy atmosphere, combined with the knowledgeable and friendly staff, creates a perfect setting for any occasion, from a special date night to a celebratory dinner with friends. I Cavallini is a testament to what a modern neighborhood restaurant can be: a place that is approachable yet ambitious, where every detail is considered to ensure guests have an unforgettable and delicious time. It’s a true gem that is sure to become a classic in the Brooklyn dining scene.

I Cavallini

284 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA