Lea
1022 Cortelyou Road (Corner of Stratford Road), Ditmas Park
(718) 928–7100
What it is: This neighborhood spot is a pretty, but cozy wood-oven Italian joint with an extensive list of wines and whiskey cocktails.
Why we love it: Located off the Q train, this neighborhood spot for some will quickly become a destination for others. Plus, Michelin rated Lea one of its Bib Gourmand restaurants in 2015– meaning, fancy restaurant people think that this is a great place to go to get high quality, cheap eats. Also, it’s named after the owner’s grandmother. How cute is that? Pretty cute.
What to order: Come for a drink, but stay for the menu of Mediterranean-Italian fare. Lea has a full menu, ranging from favorites like cheese ravioli or your standard sauce-n-cheese margherita, to more eclectic choices like grilled squid or cauliflower pizza topped with pine nuts and ricotta. Grab a cocktail like the Sophia, made with mezcal, blood orange liquer, and Brooklyn’s own Sorel hibiscus liquer, and you’ve got yourself a meal.
Regular tip: Pizza, pizza, pizza. Order one. They’re super good. If you’re up for a stroll, you can check out The Castello Plan nearby, a bar run by the same folks who run Lea.