Located on the southern end of Court Street in Brooklyn, NY, is a new concept tucked in between a few well-known neighborhood restaurants. Owner Alessandro Peluso has opened up an Old School Brooklyn Parlor style restaurant. Old School Brooklyn, which is literally the name of this adorably antique restaurant, is one of a kind and something you probably won’t find elsewhere. Partner Pasquale Failla greets you as you walk through the door into a lovely Victorian home-like setting. The ambiance of OSB is very homey and you instantly feel comfortable, and, of course, hungry!
The menu is deliciously simple with options like heirloom tomato and mozzarella, crab cakes, and one item worth mentioning in particular is the interesting, but very refreshing cucumber pineapple gazpacho. This dish has a slight kick and an instantly cooling sensation; yes, hard to explain so you really need to try it for yourself… it is incredible! The back of the menu features a very nice wine selection offering sparkling, whites, and reds from a wide range of growing regions, both domestic and international. The beer selection is limited but has great choices on draft, as well as by the bottle.
One very nice feature that must be mentioned is that their red wines are stored at the proper temperature, which certainly impresses a Sommelier or wine lover who appreciates the importance of this detail. Many restaurants fail on this part of wine storage but OSB passed the Sommelier test not only with temperature, but with wine pairing knowledge, as well!
Chef David Buico’s pastas are hand-made and perfectly sauced. The cavatelli with broccoli rabe and sausage is aromatically enticing and with every bite you fall more and more in love with the dish. The cod was cooked perfectly and oh-so-fresh when topped with black olives, spinach, and capers in a light tomato broth, accompanied by fingerling potatoes.
Owner Alessandro Peluso, who also owns Cacio e Pepe and Bocca, has brought Roman comfort food to Manhattan, and is now bringing home-style cooking with an Italian flair to Brooklyn. Mixing comfort food and Italian home cooking might sound a little simple, but the chef prepares the dishes so well that you get a sense of being at home without having to cook, clean, and do the dishes!
If you can possibly think about dessert after enjoying the lovely appetizers and entrees, then you must not pass up the opportunity to try one. With a selection of NY Style Cheesecake, Banana Splits, and Brownie Sundaes, you will feel like a kid again as you enjoy every sweet delicious bite. Be sure to check them out–this newly opened restaurant is just a few stops off the F train and is a NYC must try!
Old School Brooklyn is located at 520 Court Street in Brooklyn.
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