Lucali

- 575 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

In the world of New York City pizza, few names command the reverence and legendary status of Lucali. Tucked away on a leafy street in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, this isn't your average pizza joint. It's a culinary destination, a place where pizza is elevated to an art form, and the experience is as much a part of the meal as the food itself. Founded by Mark Iacono in 2006, Lucali was a passion project born from a desire to save a beloved neighborhood candy store from an uncertain fate. With no prior culinary experience, Iacono taught himself the craft of pizza making, creating a style that is now globally recognized and adored. The restaurant's menu is famously simple—focusing almost exclusively on its masterful pizzas and calzones—a testament to the belief that when a few things are done perfectly, nothing else is needed.

The atmosphere inside Lucali is part of its undeniable charm. The space, a beautifully renovated former candy store, exudes a cozy and romantic vibe with its soft lighting, brick walls adorned with mementos, and a marble counter where the pizza is crafted like a performance on a stage. This intimate setting has attracted a devoted following of both locals and tourists, including a remarkable list of celebrities like Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and Paul McCartney, all of whom, famously, wait in line just like everyone else. The "no reservations, cash-only" policy and the legendary wait times are not a deterrent but rather an integral part of the Lucali experience, building a sense of anticipation that, for most, is well worth it.

Lucali is situated at 575 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA, in the charming and picturesque Carroll Gardens neighborhood. This location, a few blocks away from Iacono's own slice shop Baby Luc's on Court Street, places it in a beautiful area known for its brownstones and local character. It's a neighborhood where visitors can easily spend time strolling and exploring while waiting for their table. While the restaurant itself is known for its legendary wait, the surrounding area offers a great place to pass the time. Parking can be found through free street parking, though it's worth noting that it is a busy residential area. For those requiring it, the restaurant provides wheelchair-accessible seating.

As a unique establishment, Lucali's services are as distinctive as its food.

• Dining and Seating: The primary service is dine-in, offering table service in a cozy and intimate setting. The restaurant is a sit-down, brick-oven pizzeria that seats about 30 people, making for a truly personal dining experience.
• Takeout and Delivery: While the in-house experience is what makes Lucali famous, they do offer takeout. The takeout process is often much faster than waiting for a table, making it a viable option for those on a tighter schedule.
• Payment and Pricing: Lucali is a cash-only establishment, and this is a crucial detail for all visitors to remember. The menu offers a “Plain Pie” and a "Side Of Sauce" as its main items. It also has a selection of beverages and some special pre-fixe options.

What makes Lucali a must-visit spot in New York City? Its standout features are a combination of its culinary excellence and unique operational style.

• The Pizza and Calzone: The main highlight is, without a doubt, the food. The pizza, a thin, light, and airy brick-oven pie, has been described as "perfect" with an "amazing crust" and a "neutral, but addictive" sauce. The calzone is also a beloved item, with many reviewers calling it "insane" and "excellent."
• Famous Atmosphere and Experience: The romantic and cozy ambiance, created by candlelit tables and a charmingly rustic decor, is a major draw. The legendary wait system—where you put your name on a list hours before your seating time—has become a part of the lore, building anticipation that many find to be an essential and rewarding part of the experience.
• Celebrity and Local Appeal: Lucali has a rare combination of being a beloved local spot and a destination for A-list celebrities. This balance creates a dynamic and exciting atmosphere that appeals to both residents and visitors seeking an iconic New York experience.

To get in touch with Lucali or plan your visit, here is the contact information.

Address: 575 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA

Phone: (718) 858-4086

Choosing Lucali is about more than just a meal; it's about embracing a quintessential New York dining experience. For the dedicated pizza lover, it is absolutely "worth the wait." While some may be frustrated by the wait times, the majority of patrons agree that the high-quality, delicious pizza and calzone—made with fresh, organic ingredients—make it a destination that lives up to the hype. The "ridiculous system" of waiting becomes a part of the fun, a shared experience that solidifies its status as a bucket-list restaurant. The pizza is often described as a “work of art,” with a crust that is "feather-light" and a sauce that is "the most neutral" but "addictive" in its flavor. The owner, Mark Iacono, a self-taught pizzaiolo, has created a place that, despite its fame, maintains a humble and authentic feel. The charm of Lucali is in its simplicity and its steadfast dedication to making a perfect pie. It’s a place that captures the heart of old Brooklyn and invites everyone to be a part of its rich and delicious history. For those who love pizza and are willing to invest a little time for a truly special meal, Lucali is a choice that will not disappoint.

Lucali

575 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA