IL Bel Paese
305 Knickerbocker Ave, Brooklyn, NY
Crema's Take
“This cozy Brooklyn spot does traditional Italian right, with a warm neighborhood vibe that keeps regulars coming back for more than just the pizza—the pastries and beer selection are genuine highlights. While their classic slices (particularly the pepperoni and pesto) inspire fierce loyalty, they're equally committed to being a genuine gathering place where you can linger over coffee, grab a Caesar salad that surprises, and feel genuinely welcomed by the staff. It's the kind of place where expectations get pleasantly upended, though specialty items like their gluten-free options could use some refinement.”
What to expect
Classic coffee drinks done right. A slow-sit spot, good for meetings. Pastries on the menu. Family friendly.
Google Reviews
Pretty good! I had low expectations and we were fed well with great hospitality. The beer and soda selection is good and standard with Italian favorites. The Cesar slice was surprisingly soooo good. Penne vodka sauce rich and substantial. Will be coming back!
Where should we begin…WOW. A lot of people talk about the great Tony wars of knickerbocker. We’re here to say: Tony’s dead; we killed him. From the knots(5), to the exceptional service, to the crispy cheese pizza, to the ice cold fountain beverage (Pepsi), Il Bel Paese left us…
Super bummed about this experience. I know the regular pizza is great, but was very excited to try the gluten free pie. Not only did i pay $25 for a 12’’, it was probably the worst crust i’ve ever had - mushy ritz crackers texture and completely ruined the entire pizza. I also…
First time trying. Chef Boyardee tastes better than the penned vodka I received tonight. Lack of flavor, too much sauce. Are these flat pressed things supposed to be chicken? 35 dollars after tip for 3 bites before chucking in trash. Poor poor quality.
I used to say I could go the rest of my life without eating pizza and be perfectly happy. That is the case for all pizza except the pepperoni, pesto, burrata slice here. It’s so good and every other slice I’ve had from here is good, but doesn’t come close to touching this
Crema Reviews
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