Overall rating: 4.8 Admittedly I was expecting to hate this place. There were so many positive reviews and TikToks, it's hard not to think it's overrated. When I went, it's very small. Seats at max 10 maybe less. Being a single person, it was hard to seat me. But they sat me at a table of 4 and told me if the two seater opens up they'll move me. They were very transparent which I loved. When a couple came, they said they're seating with me and I was fine with it. No complaints. The artichokes were just okay, but the lobster ravioli was delicious. My only point or two off is when they asked for water they didn't give any options. So with the question I said still water. They served it and it was sparkling. I should have said something but I chickened out. And then! I realize everyone around me is drinking tap water! I didn't know that was an option wish that was clear. Will definitely come back when I'm craving lobster ravioli. read more

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This cute little Italian restaurant is pretty awesome in a quiet little neighborhood. The staff was super nice and made the vibe feel like a chill place to hangout and enjoy your meal. I got the cacio e pepe which was great. The fresh cracked pepper and the pasta was very fresh and more al dente the way I liked it. This place takes cash only so make sure you have some on you to pay. read more

Lillo Cucina Italiana - Cacio e pepe - Cafes Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I keep passing by this spot and finally had the chance to come by on a Sunday. As the restaurant is super tiny, I highly suggest coming at odd hours to avoid a wait. But even so, I hear you may still end up waiting for a table since there are only 5 tables in here (only two of them seats 4), so I definitely wouldn't come here with more than 4. We ended up waiting about 10 minutes for a table for two. Unfortunately, I sat in the seat facing the sunset and was blinded during my entire meal. I wish they closed the door as it was getting hot too. Not going to lie, this made my meal less enjoyable and the waitress saw me struggling too. Lillo Cucino is the epitome of a hole in the wall with its authentic Italian vibes that truly feel like your Italian uncle making you a home cooked meal. The menu had a pretty good variety of pastas, entrees, vegetables, and appetizers to choose from. We started off with the Caprese di Burrata ($12), which is a must. It's so simple and fresh with a little balsamic happy face drizzle. It accompanied the bread perfectly. Right when we finished, our pastas came out perfectly timed. I had the Lobster Ravioli ($18) while he had the Penne al Vodka ($16). The portions are decent, which leaves you full but not stuffed. They're also very simple, but make these ingredients really shine. Overall, I really enjoyed the food and atmosphere here. It's affordable and homey, which is the perfect combo. You can tell it's a local favorite here too. I'm glad I live nearby, so will return to try the rest of the menu. Note: Cash only and no restrooms! read more

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The cutest little Italian restaurant in Brooklyn with GREAT food Lillo Cucina is a cash only spot with just 6 small tables inside. We waited about 10 minutes for a table but the food was definitely worth it We had the cacio e Pepe and mushroom ravioli plus the tiramisu which tasted as great as it looks read more

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Amazing, fresh, quality, and beyond friendly service. Only 5 tables in the small hometown establishment that is true to its roots. The chef is a native Italian and his wife as the hostess is more than welcoming and warm, happy to make suggestions and recommendations. Would 100/100 come again and enjoy every bite. read more

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A small , authentic neighborhood Italian restaurant. There are only 5 tables and we had to wait 20 minutes for a table. The menu offers a variety of dishes and specials are posted on the wall. Service was very good. We started with the caprese di burrata salad. The burrata was so fresh and creamy on top of fresh tomatoes and drizzled with balsamic. We shared the beet gnocchi, so unique and tasty. The lemon ravioli, was the standout dish. So fresh and tasty. The vodka pasta was also very good. Portions were not huge , but adequate. The house bread was so good. This is a cash only business. I would highly recommend. read more

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I'll start with a few caveats. No Bathroom on premises. Cash only, and no booze. But if you're willing to take a chance, you'll be rewarded with a solid, Italian homestyle meal in a tiny and cozy restaurant that won't break the bank. Standouts include the artichoke side, the Amatriciana, and the Tiramisu. You wont be disappointed. read more

Cute tasty neighborhood hole in the wall. Cash only, no restrooms and very limited seating (5 tables total, 2 are 2 people tables). There was a line even before the shop opened, despite it being in the high teens temperature wise today (though they did open a bit late). Luckily snagged a table and got to try a few dishes with my friends. Lobster rav was the best pasta (by far), and the pesto was an absolute bust (way too salty). Tomato and cream sauces tasted homey but didn't stand out too much against some Italian epics in the city. Tiramisu gave the meal a nice rich ending, but still wouldn't make a long commute worth it. Would def recommend if you're in the area and looking for a hearty and decently priced meal, but otherwise would not recommend a trek here. read more

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A cash only, husband and wife duo run restaurant bringing the flavors of Rome to New York. I loved the extensive menu, albeit overwhelming, there were selections galore for every palate. I gotta say prices are also super reasonable, pastas all under 20 bucks. A friend and I got a sampling of a few dishes but certainly had the appetite for more. We got the truffle gnocchi, the limoncello burrata ravioli and the eggplant parm. For app we got the broccoli rabe and dessert of course the tiramisu. Our bill was maybe 70 bucks in the end without tip. If you ask me that's a steal especially because the food is good. I find gnocchi to be very hit or miss, sometimes too dense and chewy but this was soft with a little firmness to it. Eggplant parm was tangy and cheesy. Limoncello had a lovely sweet lemony flavor with a touch of burrata inside. Great no frills spot with limited tables and no bathroom inside. Will for sure be back! read more

Very homey hole in the wall restaurant with about 5 tables inside. All the tables were full when my friend and I got there on a Tuesday evening so we just waited outside for the next available seats. And while waiting, multiple people passing by would point at the restaurant and mention how great it was, making expectations even greater. I ordered the cannelloni ricotta e spinaci, something I've never tried before and so very unique to me and it was fantastic. I really liked how they had something I've never seen on other Italian restaurant menus. This dish reminded me of an Italian/pasta version of enchiladas. It was so flavorful I would definitely return just for this. However I do think the complimentary bread offered were akin to regular plain grocery store loaves and definitely just a vessel for the extra sauce left over from your pasta dish. read more

Lillo Cucina Italiana - cannelloni ricotta e spinaci - Cafes Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Oh my. We do not understand why this has such high ratings. Service was quick but not friendly. The salad was lovely - good buffalo mozz, not great tomatoes but good olive oil. Bread just ok. But the pastas? Overcooked and gummy. The Amatriciana was a true disappointment. The cacio Pepe? Flavorless. The guanciale was gamey - not good. If you want a cheap pasta meal and you have a low standard - stop by. But do not expect anything special. Cash only. No Bypb ambiance? read more

Not that I want to add to the popularity of this very small restaurant, but it is an experience for a jaded New Yorker. All items on the menu are freshly made. Everything is delicious. Fish, chicken, pasta, salads, appetizers, sides- no matter what you order it will be excellent. Chef / owner Lilo himself is very present. Many times he will be bringing the food to your table. Don't ask for a substitution to your dish. It almost feels like you are insulting them. The ingredients and preparation are not to be adjusted. At least at feels that way. Just eat whatever you order the way it is prepared. Generally you will be fine. Try the tiramisu for dessert It is prepared fresh each day and it tastes that way. Has only four - five tables depending upon configuration of tables, so be prepared to wait during popular eating times. Go during an off hour if you want to get a table without the wait. Cash only. No bathroom - go to the bar a few feet away. No liquor or BYOB. read more

This place is absolutely special and magical. It's a small restaurant with so much charm and decoration on the walls, and it has a really casual vibe. The food is absolutely amazing and very reasonably priced, make sure to remember to bring cash, because it's cash only. We waited a few minutes to get a table but it was absolutely worth it. Make sure to end with the tiramisu, and I don't think you can go wrong ordering anything off of this menu, it's all been amazing! I went in celebrating a big life achievement and will definitely be back for the next celebration. read more

It is all a beacon of convivial serenity, a world unto itself, with simple yet fantastic cooking and a marvelous menu. Lillo is an old-school genius of a host, the most diverting personality in all of Cobble Hill. read more

My husband had this place bookmarked to take me for awhile, but we hadn't had a chance to go, but since we had, we have made time to get some yummy eats. We love Italy and have been back 6 times and Lillo's Cucina reminds us of that same feeling. Lillo's is a little hole in the wall tiny place that that can fit maybe 14 people if you squeezed. They are cash only and many people take out. We were able to do both several times. I typically get the Rigatoni Boscaiola and he will get the fettuccine al tartufo and the fettuccine al funghi porcini. All delicious. We have also gotten the caprese di burrata which was good. The first time I got my pasta, I had about 2 pieces of proscuitto, but it was so good that I ordered again another time and got way more so thankfully it was just a fluke that first time. *TMI - I am not usually affected, but I think something in the cream sauce always catches me weird and I have to get to the bathroom - THERE IS NO BATHROOM FOR CUSTOMERS. The first time we went, I was pregnant and we didn't know there would be no bathroom and had a situation, but luckily while we were on the way home, we were passing the hospital right before the highway and I was able to go there lol Just something to keep in mind. He told us to ask next door, but it felt awkward so we did not. I have also had the meatballs, but I got them to go and I am glad I did because I actually do not prefer how soft they are, but when they are heated in the toaster oven or baked, they get this nice crispy outside and I can enjoy it even more! There is a dessert that I absolutely love from this place and my husband who didn't even like them in Italy, craved them from Lillo's. He doesn't always have them and doesn't make many so we buy them up when we can! The tiramisu is also one of the most delicious! Just so tasty and yummy! I have also tried the lemon ice that comes in a lemon, but it was hard to eat on the go. All in all, I do crave Lillo's and we will continue to come back! Just remember, CASH ONLY and NO BATHROOM! Buon Appetito! read more

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Amazing service and amazing food. Go before this place gets too popular. Chef and hostess make you feel at home. 10/10 read more

Lillo Cucina Italiana - Cafes Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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I was blown away by Lillo this weekend! After doing some research on a lowkey, delicious pasta spot, we discovered this brooklyn gem. We ended up getting an appetizer and two pastas to split- portions were very generous and the food was super high quality. Of the two pastas, I preferred the Truffle gnocchi - but really both were incredible. The burrata and Prosciutto was also a great appetizer. Service was quick - it wasn't too crowded when we had gone, but I hear it gets pretty packed. Don't let a wait stop you from going, though - it's an incredible spot with reasonable prices. We definitely plan on returning the next time a pasta craving hits! read more

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Honestly when it comes to Italian food, would have a difficult time beating this place in terms of quality and price. It's a very very casual place (cash only, no bathroom) with very limited seating so be prepared for that (I came at a not busy time but in the future, I'd prob get to go). Sautéed artichokes were soooo flavorful and pastas were great! I tried the pink gnocchi (something about sage and butter together makes for an elite flavor combination) and I loved the lobster ravioli as well (couldn't say which one I liked better). Tiramisu was also really good. Prices are really reasonable (got all that food for $51). Definitely recommend giving this place a try! read more

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I'd rate Lillo Cucina Italiana three and a half stars. Forewarning, there are no restrooms here and it's cash only. Hence, it's literally a hole in the wall. Maybe the last Italian hole in the wall in Brooklyn. The atmosphere is very casual and decor feels to genuinely reflect the story of the owner / operator. We walked in early on a Saturday evening for dinner. We were seated immediately. We shared the veal tortellini in an Alfredo style sauce and the lasagna. Both were homey dishes. I can definitely sense the comfort of the food and the location if you live nearby. Lots of pedestrians stopped by to holler at operator in Italian. It's a 'regulars' type of place. Service was welcoming and the food was ready quickly. I'd estimate about a dozen seats inside and there was a table which could fit two to four outside. read more

Food is excellent. Homemade &fresh. Tiny place. Have eaten here several times. Pastas are recommended

Had to re-review this place after a few years because it still remains my top 3 favorite restaurants of all time in NYC! Nowadays Lillo is open for dine-in (although very limited seating), which I prefer because the food is extra fresh even though takeout is still incredible. Still run by the amazing Lillo, still has the best Italian food I've had in the US (and honestly better than half of the food I had in Italy too). My favorite dishes over the many times I've been here the past 3 yrs: Gnocchi rosa, Polpette alla parmigiana, fettuccine al porcini, Gnocchi verdi, and Risotto porcini mushroom. Although you really can't go wrong with anything on the menu because it's all fire, especially the mushroom dishes. Tiramisu is also incredible and Caprese di bufala had the freshest mozzarella cheese I've ever tasted. Service is not the quickest but worth every minute of waiting because it's such high quality food. Prices are very reasonable/worth too! FYI there is some discrepancy btwn Yelp, Google, and Lillo's website in terms of hours. When I went last week, his website and Yelp said it opens 12pm but it actually opens 12:30pm. read more

Lillo Cucina Italiana - Gnocchi Rosa Cacio e pepe - Cafes Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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I found this place while looking for a casual dinner spot for me and a friend and am so glad we came here. This is a small spot with only maybe 3-5 tables? So it'll probably be hard to get seated quickly if you come during a peak meal time. We came before dinner rush so we were able to be seated right away. The menu has quite a few options of pastas and entrees. We got a broccoli rabe side to split and then my friend got the penne alla vodka and I got pasta boscaiola, which was rigatoni in a cream based sauce with green peas, mushrooms, and pancetta. We both really enjoyed our meals and they tasted so fresh and are very well-priced. We both noted that we've had pasta from other places that costed way more but this was much better. The owner Lillo is also the chef and server and you can tell he puts a lot of love into the food. I find it very sweet that on his website and Yelp restaurant page, he lets you know that seating is limited but he can pack your food for a to go order or enjoy a drink at a nearby bar until there's a table available. A lovely spot in Brooklyn that I'll definitely be returning to for some more great pasta and to try the tiramisu next time too! read more

You could tell this place was popular because even when they were about to close and not seating anyone else the people would still be fine getting everything to go. The food was so good! We got an array of different items and each were so flavorful. The noodles reminded me of all the flavors I had in Italy. Great sauce that clung onto the pasta with chewy homemade noodles. read more

Lillo Cucina Italiana - Mushroom Alfredo and spaghetti and meatballs - Cafes Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Came here for dinner on a Thursday night and was greeted by Lillo himself! This is an amazing small, local business. The interior is quaint with minimal seating. The service was warm. The food was great! We got the rigatoni siciliana and the penne arrabiata. The arrabiata sauce was spicy! Both dishes tasted fresh and homemade. Keep in mind that this establishment is cash only. Overall, a great and cozy neighborhood spot. read more

Lillo Cucina Italiana - Penne arrabiata, rigatoni siciliana - Cafes Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Do not eat here. The food may be top notch but the service is not. I was treated rudely by who I think was the owner as a solo diner and that is not how you treat a customer. Yes the restaurant is small but that is no excuse to how I was treated and will not be coming here again even if the restaurant gets a Michelin star or earns a James Beard award. Here is what happened at the restaurant: He looked me. He then saw a party of four. He pointed his finger at me. "You. Out." I got up. He put me at a smaller table explaining why I could not take the table I had originally. But then after sitting for approximately 20 minutes I was completely ignored. I got up and left without ordering anything, taking myself and my business out of there forever. read more

Excellent service, delicious food, and great prices. It's a little small, but definitely worth the wait!

I spent an hour on multiple trains and battled a rainy day to get here while visiting the city and can confidently say this is the BEST pasta I've ever had in America. Completely worth it. I arrived right at 12:30 on a Friday to try and time the opening and get a table which worked! I ordered the speck and zucchini pasta and a macchiato. I'm still at the table in the restaurant writing this because it was so good that I had to share. I wish I could give this spot 6 stars. The owner is super friendly. The space is quaint but inviting. The prices are extremely reasonable. I wish I could eat here every day. I spent 4x as much for pasta dishes at fancy restaurants while in the city that in no way compare to this place. The food here is made with passion and love and it shows. If you're on the fence because it's out of the way then you should stop overthinking and plan an afternoon around it. Absolutely amazing meal. read more

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I was craving pasta and it was that weird time. Past lunch but slightly early for an early dinner at 5. Lillo had been on my list to try so I decided to head there in between errands. It's a tiny spot with 4 tables inside and a small 2 top outside. The owner handles the orders and food. He was personable in his quiet way and ensured water was never empty and orders came out in a timely fashion. Regulars came in to pickup orders and have a quick chat. I ordered the lobster ravioli, regina salad and a macchiato. Everything was excellent. Ravioli was light and flavorful lobster filling and the sauce was perfect. The salad was delicious with a larger than expected portion size which sadly left no room for dessert.. Note : cash only, no reservations no bathroom no BYOB. Just great food. read more

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Absolutely loved this place! Their artichoke appetizer and Cacio Pepe were amazing! I picked this place while I had an 8 hour layover at JFK. Best decision I made! Tiny little place that has an outrageous amount of charm. Very limited seating and it's a one-man show. But don't let that deter you. It's well worth it. read more

Amazing amazing food! I was one of the first ones in the restaurant when they opened for Friday lunch so I was lucky enough to get seating at one of the 4 indoor tables (plus 1 outdoor table). Luckily I came first, because it filled up quickly and within 10 mins, the takeout wait time was 1 hour. Free bread with dine-in! I ordered gnocchi rosa and polpette alla Parmigiana (meatballs). Gnocchi rosa was one of the best gnocchi I've had! I do wish it had a bit more flavor but the texture and consistency was so great that it made up for it. The meatballs were some of the best meatballs I've ever had in my life. The sauce was so creamy and flavorful...I'd definitely recommend this dish. I dipped some of the bread in the sauce and it was incredible. The owner of the shop is a hardworking guy and it had a great mom and pop vibe to the store! read more

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I am going to keep my review simple and sweet just like the restaurant itself. Cash only, no bathrooms, small space. I have never dined in and always did takeout. However, the food was absolutely delicious and homey/cozy. This is what it feels like if I had Italian grandparents cooking for me. read more

Went around 2PM on a Saturday, and was able to get a table for 2. Seating seems a bit limited, so there is definitely a chance you may need to take out. It was not too busy when I went, and I really liked the relaxed atmosphere. Seems popular with the locals as the owner was chatting with / was friendly with some families who came in. We got the rosa gnocchi and a lobster ravioli which both tasted extremely fresh. The sauce was creamy, but not overly thick. I also really enjoyed the texture of the dough. Overall I would recommend this spot, but it may be difficult to get seating if you go during a busy period. I believe they're also cash only. read more

Fantastic neighborhood spot that is all too easy to miss! Lived around the corner for 5 years and never went in, assuming it was a small coffee shop. Instead, it's some of the most delicious, traditional Italian food in the city, clearly made with love. For the size of the place they offer lots of variety, from a wide range of pasta favorites, a homemade tiramisu, and hard-to-find grilled Roman artichokes. Definitely worth visiting the neighborhood just to try the pasta here! Can't wait to come back and try the risotto and sandwiches for lunch. Just wish they took cards - cash only. read more

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Pasta sucked! Overcooked noodles. Cacio e Pepe was watery with a dash of pepper. Broccoli Rabe pasta was watery, didn't develop a sauce. Just floppy noodles and overcooked greens in water. The tiramisu is ok. Why don't they write your name down when you're waiting? At least it is cheap. Anyone who recommends this place must normally eat bottled Ragu sauce. read more

Cute, small spot tucked away in Brooklyn Heights. I was super excited to try this place out after several recommendations, but I was a little disappointed. Maybe my expectations were set too high. What I will say is the owner/person working there was great. He welcomed us in, treated us warmly, and we were served quickly. You can tell he has a great relationship with his customers. The food fell a bit short. We got the fried artichoke appetizer, cacio e pepe, puttanesca, and pink gnocchi special. The artichokes were good. I thought him being from Rome, the pasta would be al dente, so I was surprised when it was super soft and well done. I've heard this is how Americans eat it, so maybe he's just adjusting? Make sure to ask for it al dente. The artichokes were good. Puttanesca and gnocchi flavors were fine, but the cacio e pepe lacked and fell short. My favorite was probably the gnocchi. I will say, the prices are a really good deal and the portions are good. It's a good value for your money. read more

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Tiny hole in the wall , no restrooms no alcohol no BYO, who cares the food is amazing literally some of the best Italian I have ever eaten in my life. This is a local jewel. Service is always personable. And it's insanely good value. One of my top five restaurants in the whole of Brooklyn. read more

Literally felt like I was in Italy. Tiny hole in the wall restaurant, with an owner who mostly speaks Italian, and serving delicious food. There were people speaking Italian who kept stopping in and ordering, which I always take to be a good sign. There are only 4 2-seater tables inside and I think a table or two outside. I came around 7:15pm on a Friday and there somehow was no line and I was able to be seated inside. However, many people call ahead and do pickup or just pop inside and order takeout from the counter. Owner who is also the person manning the front is very friendly and primarily speaks Italian. There's definitely a slower pace to this restaurant (food takes some time to come out) but at least you know it's fresh! **To dine inside you must show proof of vaccination** **CASH ONLY!** Food-wise, nothing blew my mind because everything I've tasted before (caprese salad, penne vodka, etc). But it feels like you're eating in someone's home. It tastes fresh and home cooked with love and everything is truly delicious. The pasta portions are quite large and prices are very reasonable. There is a large menu offering and then daily specials. They also sell out of food (wanted the cantaloupe and prosciutto and it was sold out.) I ordered the below and split between 2 hungry people and couldn't finish: -Caprese salad. That mozzarella.. so fresh!! Would definitely order again. -Meatballs in red sauce. The red sauce is so fresh and full of flavor. Would definitely order again. -Penne vodka. Creamy flavorful sauce. Al dente noodles. Would definitely order again. -Fettuccine Porcini. Very earthy taste with the mushrooms. Definitely only order if you're a mushroom lover. I really liked, but don't think I could eat an entire bowl solo. It's good to share. -Tiramisu. Huge serving! My favorite is from Eataly, but this one definitely satisfied my tiramisu craving. I'll definitely be back! read more

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Food: 9.5/10 Service: 9/10 Ambience: 8/10 First off: No bathroom, no air conditioning, no credit cards. Come prepared. The food is worth it though! I was astounded by the reviews on both Google (4.8) and Yelp (5/5) so had to try it for myself. On a Saturday afternoon, my table of 5 were able to snag the only non-2 person table in the restaurant at 2 PM (they open at 12:30pm). We ordered: -Polpette alla Parmigiana ($13) - beef meatballs in a cream sauce. The cream sauce was so good, we wiped it clean with the bread (and extra bread the waiter refilled). Meatballs were moist and tender -Caprese di Bufala ($12) - 2 burratas with 8 slices of tomato, good but the balsamic vinaigrette was a bit chunky -Fettuccine al Tartufo ($16) - not as creamy as I had hoped, probably the least fav thing we ordered. Still flavorful and pasta was cooked al dente but eh -Lobster Ravioli ($18) - amazing as the pictures. Rich, flavorful vodka sauce with generously stuffed lobster ravioli. Would 10/10 order again -Chicken Parmigiana ($20) - Doesn't come with pasta (they tell you before you order) but beautifully seasoned, crisp, just the amount of fresh mozzarella -Penne alla Vodka ($16) - great sauce, same as the lobster ravioli. Wish there could be some meat added to it, some chicken or pancetta -Tiramisu ($8) - generous portion, shared it amongst our 5 and it was a perfect way to end our meal. Splendid, one of the best in NYC, no frills. Lillo's is a no-frills, down to the basics Italian restaurants that reminds me of Italy. Unfortunately it was a bit of a hot and humid day, so wish they'd expand their outdoor seating or turn on the AC for a better ambiance. Other than that, no complaints! read more

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CASH ONLY. Theres maybe 3-4 tables that each fit 2 people, so there's very little space to eat-in. I'd recommend ordering pickup or takeout. There's no way to see the menu in advance since it's not up to date with what they're serving each day. I walk by, place and order, and my wait is normally 15 minutes. Show up The prosciutto burrata was delicious. The prosciutto was cut in thin slices and tasted delicious. The burrata was also amazing and melted in my mouth. Lobster ravioli was solid. I wish there were more chunks of lobster in the ravioli. The dish comes with 6 pieces of ravioli. The vodka sauce was delicious read more

This is my all time favorite Italian restaurant in Brooklyn. It's small and authentic. It truly feels like you steeped into a small place on a side street in Rome. You cannot go wrong with anything on their excessive menu. But the pink gnocchi and cacio e Pepe are two of the highlights. read more