Bamonte’s

If you’re anywhere near as obsessed with old school Italian American culture/aesthetic as I am, I really can’t believe that you have not already gotten yourself to Bamonte’s in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.  The atmosphere is an unreal time capsule of 1950s Brooklyn (though it’s been there since 1900).  True story: I sat at a table right next to Tommy la Sorda’s on Easter weekend.  Something about this place tells me that probably wasn’t a rare occurrence.  This is absolutely the place to take your parents or some out of towners in search on a authentic Brooklyn experience.

I’m partial to the cheese ravioli, which I believe is one of the many pastas there that are hand made, and won’t break your bank (their main courses tend to be on the pricier side).  Their antipasti apps are really nice as well, especially if you’re a struggling vegetarian in a sea of things that more often than not contain meat. The house red wine is as it should be taste-wise, and reasonably priced

My overall advice is to definitely go for the ambiance, as it’s pretty much a once in a lifetime experience, but be careful with ordering plate after plate.  It can be incredibly tempting to try everything, even if they’re just apps or first courses, but it all definitely adds up.

Bamonte’s
32 Withers Street (between Union & Lorimer)
Brooklyn, NY 11211 [Williamsburg]

If you’re visiting New York consider staying near the Union Square Inn or the Thompson LES, both of which are just a quick ride on the L train to Williamsbug.