Lillo Cucina Italiana

- 331 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Lillo Cucina Italiana is a small, family-run restaurant that embodies the true spirit of authentic Italian cooking. It is a place where every dish is made with soul and love, and the philosophy is simple: "Simple is better." Located in the charming Cobble Hill neighborhood of Brooklyn, Lillo Cucina Italiana offers a dining experience that feels less like a typical restaurant and more like a warm, bustling Italian living room. This is the kind of spot that locals cherish and visitors are delighted to discover.

The restaurant is a passion project of chef-owner Giampietro "Lillo" Remia, who has a knack for creating a communal energy that makes guests feel like family. His dedication to using high-quality ingredients, many of which are imported directly from Italy, shines through in every bite. The menu is a reflection of his commitment to simple, rustic flavors and fresh, daily-made food, including fresh pasta, sandwiches, and salads. The result is a selection of dishes that are not only incredibly flavorful but also deeply comforting and reminiscent of home-cooked meals in Italy.

Despite its humble and tiny size, Lillo Cucina Italiana has won the hearts of many New Yorkers. The limited seating and cash-only policy add to its charm, creating an exclusive, intimate atmosphere that is sought after by those who appreciate a truly authentic experience. It's a place that buzzes with the energy of locals who are in on the secret, and the food speaks for itself. It's the kind of place you'll want to keep to yourself, a true gem in the city's vast culinary landscape.

Lillo Cucina Italiana is perfectly situated at 331 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, in the vibrant and historic Cobble Hill neighborhood. The restaurant’s location, nestled between Atlantic Avenue and Pacific Street, makes it a convenient spot for residents and visitors to stop by for a fantastic meal. The area is known for its beautiful brownstones and welcoming, neighborhood feel, which perfectly complements the restaurant's cozy atmosphere.

Parking can be a mix of free street parking and paid street parking, which is common in a busy Brooklyn neighborhood. While there is no dedicated parking, finding a spot nearby is usually manageable. The restaurant’s small size is a deliberate part of its charm, and while it may mean a wait during peak hours, it also ensures an intimate and personal dining experience. For those in a hurry, calling ahead for takeout is a great option, as the restaurant is happy to pack your order to go.

Lillo Cucina Italiana focuses on providing a genuine and straightforward dining experience.

• Takeout: For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, the restaurant offers a convenient takeout service. You can call ahead to place your order.
• Dine-in: The small dining room offers a cozy and intimate space for a memorable meal. Guests are encouraged to come in and experience the warm, family-like atmosphere.
• Outdoor Seating: On pleasant days, outdoor seating is available, allowing you to enjoy your food while taking in the neighborhood's charming streetscape.
• Table Service: The service is known for being warm, friendly, and attentive, often with the chef-owner himself interacting with guests.
• Cash-Only Payments: A key feature to note is that this establishment is cash-only, which adds to its old-world, no-fuss charm.

• Authentic Italian Fare: The menu is crafted with love and features rustic, homey Roman fare that reminds many customers of meals they've had in Italy. The food is made fresh daily with high-quality, often imported, ingredients.
• Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: With limited seating (typically just a handful of tables and around 17 seats), the space is small, intimate, and communal. This creates a cozy and unique dining experience where you feel like a guest in a home.
• Chef-Owner Giampietro "Lillo" Remia: The personality and passion of the chef-owner are central to the restaurant's appeal. His personal touch and friendly demeanor are often highlighted in customer reviews.
• Great Coffee: Lillo Cucina Italiana is also known for taking coffee seriously, offering a variety of excellent coffee and espresso drinks.
• Affordable Prices: Despite the high quality of the food, the prices are reasonable, with most lunch and dinner entrees ranging from $10-$20, making it an accessible option for fantastic Italian food.
• Family-Friendly: The restaurant is good for kids, making it a welcoming spot for families to enjoy an authentic meal.

To plan your visit or place a takeout order, you can contact the restaurant at the following:

Address: 331 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA

Phone: (347) 763-0899

The menu at Lillo Cucina Italiana changes often, reflecting the availability of the freshest ingredients. However, some of the most popular dishes and categories are a consistent highlight. The freshly made pasta is a standout, with many customers raving about its quality and the delicious, simple sauces that accompany it. The Gnocchi and Cacio e Pepe are frequently mentioned as must-tries, showcasing the kitchen’s ability to perfect classic Roman dishes. For those who enjoy seafood, the Linguine Pescatora, a customer favorite, is an immaculately flavorful dish.

In addition to the main courses, the Appetizers are also a hit. The sauteed artichokes with olive oil and fried basil are highly recommended as a perfect starter to share with friends. The Milanese Di Pollo (chicken Milanese) is another beloved item, often praised for its perfect texture and taste. And don't forget the desserts! The Tiramisu and Affogato are perfect ways to finish off the meal, and the pastries like Bombolone Alla Nutella are great for a quick snack. No matter what you choose, the quality and care that go into each dish, combined with the warm atmosphere, make every meal at Lillo Cucina Italiana a memorable experience.

Lillo Cucina Italiana

331 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA