Review: Al Di La Trattoria

I finally made it to Al Di La, a jewel of a restaurant in Park Slope, and I can't wait till I can go again. All the talk about there always being a wait is true, but it's well worth it. We chose to dine at the small adjacent wine bar and waited about 40 minutes. The wait was made easier as we were quick to grab seats at the small bar (there can't be more than 7 seats) and ordered a wonderful Italian bottle of wine from a very cheery and helpful waitress. After making it to our small table in the back, again there are only about six 2 person tables, we were met by the same cheery waitress and placed our orders. A cheese plate featuring three cheeses: a nutty parmigiana reggiano, a smooth blue and an amazingly decadent cheese made from sheeps, cow and goats milk that was rich and creamy, called La Tur.

Our main courses consisted of Casumzieei, ravioli stuffed with roasted beets and ricotta and covered in butter and poppy seeds, and Tagliattelle Al Ragu made with homemade pasta cooked to perfection and a creamy and meaty ragu. Both dishes were impeccable and some of the best pasta I've ever been fortunate to eat. And at only $11 and $13 respectably quite the bargain. Dessert was hard to pass up with the first option being Ricotta Fritters with homemade whip cream and chocolate sauce, a perfect indulgent end to our meal. Surprisingly all of this high quality food and wine would be expected to run you over $100, but this meal with tip was just a few dollars south of $100, a bargain in my book.

Overall the atmosphere, food and service made for a intimate an leisurely dining experience that I highly recommend. Be prepared to wait at least 45 minutes, but just grab a glass of wine to make the wait go quicker. Al Di La does not take reservations at either location.
248 5th Ave, Brooklyn NY 11215, 718-636-8888, Price - Moderate ($30-40/person with wine), Reservations - Not Accepted