On an Evening in Brooklyn... Table 87

After visiting Italy, an idea popped into my head: it's time to rejoin the world of pizza living in my own backyard. New York has proven to be the beacon of pizza, and I am not alone in saying that we have the best pizza in America (Don’t get too upset, Connecticut and New Jersey, you guys are still up there). Bursting with diversity and history, Brooklyn is known for meshing classic traditions with new-school creativity. Table 87, my most recent prospect, embodies the sociable and welcoming environment of the Brooklyn dining experience.

I visited Table 87’s 3rd Avenue location, which offers options for every customer. Wanna just grab a slice and go? Head to the pizza counter and pick from their selection of popular slices. Feel like enjoying the atmosphere? Grab a table in their glowing dining area lined with deep blue leather booths and warm ambient lighting. The soft, jazzy R&B music paired well with the meal and set a comforting tone all around. Wanna enjoy the buzz and sociability of the neighborhood? Head to the illuminated bar and gander at their drink menu, which features signature cocktails and mocktails, a wide selection of draft and bottled beer, and a classic array of red and white wine.

Now onto food. Table 87 serves coal-fired, thin-crust pizza with a variety of alluring toppings. Size options include a personal 12’ (8 slides) or shareable 20’ (12 slices); I personally recommend getting the smaller option and picking a variety of pies to share with your dining mates. I taste-tested the mushroom slice with truffle oil and their classic Margherita with dollops of creamy burrata.

The mushroom slice ignited all of my senses; the aromatic truffle oil greeted me first, followed by the smokey flavor of the coal fire crust, and the journey ended with a balanced combination of sweet tomato sauce, light cheese, and thinly sliced mushrooms. The margarita and burrata slice was effortlessly classic, perfect for all burrata lovers.

I perused the specials and was intrigued by the slow-cooked short rib accompanied by a side of pappardelle. All I can say is this dish should be a permanent menu item! The ribbons of pasta absorbed the thick tomato sauce, and the tender fall-of-the-bone short rib was delectably savory and rich. I saved my golden and crispy pizza crust to dip into the pasta sauce, which was too good to leave on the plate.

The attentive, friendly wait staff and well-paced courses completed the experience. If you're ever in Brooklyn looking for an elevated, sit-down pizzeria with classic slices and tasty apps, give Table 87 a visit at one of their 4 locations. Perfect for family sharing and celebrating with your friends!