Michael's of Brooklyn

You get the feeling that a lot of important and special moments have happened at Michael’s, an old school Italian restaurant on the edge of Marine Park that opened in 1964. The service is polished, there’s a live piano player, and every table is draped with white tablecloths. The whole experience comes dangerously close to feeling dated, but you’ll leave this place with another word in mind: classy.

We’re not sure how many times the menu has changed in recent decades, but we wouldn’t be surprised if the answer is not much. Pick any classic dish, and you’ll be happy. If you want something in a garlicky tomato sauce, choose whatever pasta shape you’re in the mood for, and pair it with the puttanesca made with olives, anchovies, and capers. We also recommend their take on surf and turf: veal scaloppini in a white wine sauce with tons of shrimp. Be sure to get one of the desserts, like the exceptional Boston cream pie with fresh raspberries. (They have a dedicated pastry shop right across the street.) 

This place is at the opposite end of the spectrum from any hot restaurant that just opened and is receiving a ton of press. There’s absolutely nothing trendy about Michael’s—and that’s why we love it.

photo credit: Michael's of Brooklyn