Lucali: An A List Pizzeria

Owned by Mark Iacono, this pizzeria is a Brooklyn gem. It’s a quaint pizzeria in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn known for its romantic atmosphere and A-list pizza. Iacono’s style is no fuss, offering only pizza (with a bunch of fresh toppings) and calzones (yes, that’s it). Simple is best, and this place is just that. Simple, and so damn good!

This secret gem only offers a 30 person seating, no reservations, and no orders by the slice. It’s one of those places just for you. A place you keep as a secret and only introduce to your closest friends or a special someone (even that is far fetched). Men have even proposed to their significant others at Lucali where Mr. Iacono willingly spells out “MARRY ME” with toppings atop a pie. Its decor is very old Italian with dimmed lights, antique wood work, and an original chalk board that lists their menu options with the words “Grand Opening” written in a large letters. A sign that was said to be used for a Grand Opening night that the restaurant until this day has never had- Iacono has kept it there nonetheless. Its the nostalgia of it all, I guess.

Lucali seems rustic, it’s as if you’re visiting an Italian grandmother’s home who makes fabulous pizza. She feeds you well, offers you extras, checks on you to make sure you’re full and happy, and provides all of the homey feels. That’s how the waitresses at Lucali make you feel. The huge brick oven out in the open of the restaurant, the braided Italian loaves, and the attentive waitresses who offer up a plate of extra sauce and shredded Parmesan to top your pizza with- its the ultimate pizzeria experience.

Their pizza? Amazing with fresh Italian toppings to choose from. My favorite is pepperoni ( a homemade version the owner himself picks at a local butcher), hot peppers, fresh garlic, and basil. You absolutely have to get basil on your pizza, the smell and flavor it adds to every bite is to die for. Not to mention, if Beyonce and Jay-Z have quoted Lucali to be their favorite Brooklyn pizzeria, come on that’s all the push you need.

Just remember, Lucali does not accept reservations. The best thing to do is to call ahead on your way there, you want to make sure you get an idea of how long the wait time will be. Also, did I mention that Lucali is BYOB? As if this place couldn’t get any better. You are welcomed to bring any alcoholic beverage you wish to accompany your meal. Stop by your local wines & spirits store and bring a nice wine to help compliment your meal.

Now work up your appetite, make a date with your girl tribe or significant other and indulge in some of New York’s best pizza.

I hope you all get a chance to visit this gem soon! When you do, please share! I’d love to hear what you think.