Al Di La Trattoria
Cuisine: Italian
Price: Moderate

Park Slope
248 5th Avenue (at Carroll Street)
Brooklyn, NY 11215 (718) 636-8888
www.aldilatrattoria.com

Here is a bold statement: Al Di La is my favorite restaurant in Park slope. The main reason for my declaration of love is due to a pasta special that appears on the menu about every three weeks. The star entrée is a homemade gnocchi dish prepared in a pork shoulder ragu and topped with goat cheese. The gnocchi are little pillows of heaven, and the combination of pork and goat cheese create one sensational mouthwatering bite. When eating this dish, it becomes essential to tune out all surrounding sights and sounds in order to fully bask in the flavor of every morsel. The portion size is just right as well;  enough to satisfy but not enough to make you want to unbutton your pants.

Every time I dine at Al Di La, the food is spectacular, and the overall experience is top notch. The ambiance is inviting and warm, without being pretentious. A large chandelier is the focal point of the restaurant, while red and yellow drapes line the windows. Diners sit at long wooden tables, which give the space a rustic feel all while capturing what dining in Brooklyn is all about; eating local and delicious food in a cozy atmosphere. I suggest giving the restaurant a call and seeing if this dish is on the menu. If so, head over immediately.