This post is a full non-sponsored review of LaRina Pastificio & Vino in Brooklyn.
The first time I went to LaRina Pastificio was on a second date. Then, the next time was also on a second date. And the third time? Well, you get the idea.
Lucky for me, I can’t hold a relationship to save my life, which means I consistently return to LaRina Pastificio & Vino (thankfully, not on my own dime).
But seriously, why is this the spot for second dates? It’s safe to say I have a type: pasta-loving men with surprisingly good taste in restaurants.
It’s easy to see why LaRina Pastificio is such a popular date night spot. Tucked away on a quiet street in Fort Greene, it offers a romantically lit patio and some of the most crave-worthy homemade pasta in Brooklyn.
About the Restaurant
LaRina opened in 2016 at 387 Myrtle Avenue.
In honor of the family’s grandmother, Rina, the restaurant owners wanted to create a space that embodied food, love, and hospitality, just like their nonna.
The menu is curated by Chef Silvia Barban and her team. Chef Silvia uses the heritage of her family in her recipes as well as cuisine from all regions of Italy, fused with global inspiration.
Reservations
Over the years, LaRina Pastificio has gotten really popular, even amongst Manhattaners. I recommend making a reservation at least 4-5 days in advance, especially if you are looking for a table on the weekend.
Honest LaRina Pastificio Review
Ambiance
With delicate details in every corner and twinkle lights stringing across a romantic patio, you can clearly see why I’ve been on so many dates at LaRina Pastificio! Inside or outside, it’s effortlessly romantic.
Appetizers + Wine
As you settle into your seat, you’re welcomed with complimentary warm sourdough bread and fresh olive oil. It’s the perfect bite to enjoy while browsing the extensive wine list, which features over 500 wines!!
I can never remember the fancy names of the wines I end up with, but anytime I tell the server I like a sauv blanc, they always nail the recommendation.
To start, we ordered the crocchettes: crispy potato bites with smoked scamorza cheese and corn aioli. They were tasty, but a bit heavy after the bread and before diving into a pasta course. Next time, I think I’ll go for a salad or something lighter to begin.
Entrees
LaRina Pastificio doesn’t advertise a seasonal or rotating menu, but every time I go, there’s always something new to try. I always order their homemade ravioli dish of whatever they are offering at that time. Once, it was a light butter + sage ricotta ravioli, it was to die for.
This time, I didn’t see it on their menu, but my passionate waitress talked me into trying the cacao ravioli. Yes, cacao! While hesitant, I was sure happy I ordered it.
My friend ordered the seafood stuffed shells. While he liked his dish, my ravioli was the clear winner. He said it felt a bit heavy and that, based on the description, he expected it to come with a white sauce that would better complement the seafood.
Desserts
I feel like it’s illegal to order a tiramisu without an espresso martini, and I’m happy to share that I fully comply with this law. It’s the perfect duo; creamy, coffee-soaked dessert paired with a cold, boozy shot of espresso. LaRina Pastificio delivers on both beautifully!
Prices
For an appetizer, two pastas (one being the special), two glasses of wine, a cocktail, and a dessert, our total came out to $154.56. After tip, expect to total about $92 a person, which I feel is slightly steep for a pasta restaurant in Brooklyn.
That being said, I would consider it one of the best modern pasta restaurants in Brooklyn – so maybe they know their worth!
Service
The service at LaRina Pastifico has been top-notch every time I have dined. The Staff is always knowledgeable about the menu, specials, and extensive wine list.
Dress Code
While there is no official dress code, this is a fairly nice place, so you’ll want to put a little thought into your outfit!
Here’s a similar outfit to what I wore to dinner:
Is LaRina Pastificio & Vino Worth Trying?
Yes! As you can probably tell, I’m a big fan of this Fort-Greene staple. LaRina Pastifico is consistently delicious, romantic, and I always leave having tried something both familiar and new. While just a tad pricey, it’s certainly worth the splurge for a date night or special occasion.
This post was all about my honest review of LaRina Pastificio in Brooklyn.
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