Sometimes the best meals happen completely by accident. My partner and I were in the mood to try somewhere new in the neighborhood and stumbled upon this Italian spot just five minutes from home. We walked in on a sunny Wednesday evening around 6 PM and admittedly hesitated for a moment, there wasn't a single other customer in sight during what should have been prime dinner hours. Thankfully, we ignored the warning signs and took a chance. WOW. I'm glad we did. We kicked things off with a couple glasses of Lambrusco and the Fritto Misto. The portion was incredibly generous, packed with shrimp, fish, calamari, and even zucchini. Everything was light, crispy, and perfectly fried without feeling greasy. Easy 9.2/10. For our mains, we shared the Tortelli di Zucca e Olio Tartufato. Full disclosure: I almost didn't order it. I usually gravitate toward protein-heavy dishes and tend to think stuffed pastas are all filling and no substance. I couldn't have been more wrong. This ended up being the star of the meal. The sauce was unlike anything I've had before; rich, balanced, and incredibly flavorful, while the pasta itself was cooked to perfection. A 9.6/10 and an absolute must-order. We also shared a smoked salmon pasta special with peas in a cream sauce. The pasta texture was excellent and the dish was delicious overall. My only critique was that the salmon leaned a touch too salty, but it was still something I'd happily order again. 9.1/10. As the meal went on, we couldn't stop looking around the dining room. An hour and a half later, there still weren't any other customers. We were genuinely baffled. How was a place serving food this good sitting empty? We ended up chatting with the owner, who is from Italy and personally sources many of the ingredients used in the restaurant. Super nice guy and the spots been around for 14 years. After tasting the food, that attention to detail made complete sense. You can tell the pasta is handmade. Every dish felt thoughtfully prepared and authentically Italian. The most dangerous part of this place is that it is only five minutes from my apartment. I have a feeling we'll be back very, very often. read more

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Wonderful friends night with delicious food!! You would probably pass by- the spot is simple and cozy :) The waiter was really sweet and everything! They allow us to bring a cake for bday celebration :) They only accept all the orders at the same time. Which made us order too many dishes.. however, everything was fresh and pasta was amazing :) the table was full of joyful dishes and you are gonna enjoy with some wines! Thank you so much! read more

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so underrated. usually can walk in and the pasta has never disappointed me. portions are pretty huge too read more

Testo Restaurant - seafood pasta - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Happy to have tratto back at the Town & Country location! Their food is always so high-quality and so fresh. The whipped ricotta it was delicious. The focaccia was fresh out of the oven! The cacio e Pepe cannot be beat here. It is so good. The service is always fantastic and has a really quaint ambience. Reminds me of Italy. read more

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Omg. What a hidden gem. Probably the best pasta I've had in years. Just a corner restaurant with authentic Italian food. read more

Testo Restaurant - Bolognese. - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I had the Bistecca Al Pepe, a steak with peppercorn cream sauce which is one of my favorite dishes and it was phenomenal. All of the appetizers and deserts were also great. read more

Testo Restaurant - Bistecca Al Pepe - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

We randomly stumbled upon this little Italian spot. The first thing I saw was "Happy hour every day from 5-7 PM!" Say less! Here's what we tried: COZZE IN PADELLA - Sautéed PEI mussels. We went with the spicy tomato sauce, and it did not disappoint! The sauce was so delicious with a nice kick. A must-order! PROSCIUTTO DI PARMA E MELONE - Cantaloupe wrapped in prosciutto with a drizzle of balsamic. This one was just okay for me... the balsamic didn't quite hit the mark. I would've preferred it without balsamic. TORTELLI DI ZUCCA ALL'OLIO TARTUFATO - Butternut squash tortelli recommended by our server. They looked like little dumplings. It was sweet and delicious. Highly recommend! TIRAMISU - Decent. Nice presentation but I've had better. Overall, a great find! I'd definitely come back to try more of their pasta dishes. read more

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Solid pasta! Cute ambiance too. I got the Cavatelli salsiccia e cime di rapa, which I liked! It tasted a bit like the Pipette Ragu from Forma Pasta, but I wish the sauce was thicker like the one at Forma. I tried my friend's Pappardelle alla Bolognese which was not bad but nothing too special. Overall, I'd come back if I'm in the neighborhood but don't think it's a must-try. read more

Testo Restaurant - Cavatelli Salsiccia e Cime di Rapa - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I loooooooved Testo. Like really loved Testo. My sister and I sat at the bar for our little celebration and shared many dishes. The Brussels salad was a crunchy wonderful start. For entrees - Scratch made Pappardelle with wild boar sausage was one that blew my mind.... The second was the pistachio pan seared Bronzino.... Both dishes BROUGHT ME TO MY KNEES. I rarely venture to Brooklyn for dinner and let's be straight that I would cross an ocean to get to Testo. Service at the bar was out of bounds exceptional. Ended the night with free lemoncielo shots - how cute are they? read more

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Came here on a date night with my wife on a Sunday night It's a very cozy area and the food was pretty good as well For starters, we got the calamari with fish and carrots. I have never seen this combo before and surprisingly, it works pretty well. The batter was light, not too oily and crispy. It was super filling and me and my wife weren't able to finish our main entrees I got the cavatelli with sausage and broccoli rabe. You can't go wrong with this combo. One thing that intrigued me about this place is that the pasta is all made in the store. This was my first time having cavatelli and it was cooked to al dente perfection. The perfect texture and every bite was coated in the sauce. It kinda looks like silk worms but taste way better. If you're looking for a good Italian spot, don't skip on this place read more

Testo Restaurant - Fritto Misto - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Testo is one of those special, gems of a restaurant I just keep coming back to. Having lived across the street from Testo from 2013-2015, it has always held a special place in my heart, but the thing that keeps me coming back is the amazing food and service. Testo has held steady in its execution and has flawlessly maintained its classic dishes (pesto gnocchi, I'm looking at you) for the past 12 years. This is a quintessential gathering spot for a meal with friends without any unnecessary "trendiness". I always leave happy and keep coming back for more over the years and when I return to NYC for visits. read more

We sat outside here since it was a nice night. Bruschetta was delicious. The cavatelli was pretty good. Chicken Al limone was fire. Got a good bottle of red but it was pretty warm so I needed to ask for ice (I prefer my reds a little chilled). Overall I'd go back! read more

Incredibly delicious Frito Misti and perfect homemade pasta with a variety of specials to satisfy everyone you are with. The ambience is warm and inviting in this petite restaurant so make a reservation to guarantee a table. Being a neighbor since Testo opened 8+ years ago it has never disappointed. The sane staff delivers delicious food with a changing seasonal menu. Enjoy read more

Had the pappardelle and strozzapreti and they were both perfect. The bolognese sauce was flavorful with tender pieces of meat. The frito misto was the best I've had in years. I'll definitely come back here read more

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Tortelli Di Zucca All'olio Tartufato (butternut squash filled ravioli in a buttery sauce) is still my favorite dish here! If you plan on coming with a group or during prime time a reservation is strongly recommended. Daily specials, friendly service and fresh food at a decent price in a casual setting. Great spot to catch up with your bestie. The bar is limited but has several wines to choose from. Glad to see they have been standing the test of time, I hope to see them for years to come. read more

Testo Restaurant - Butternut Squash Ravioli - Tortelli Di Zucca All'olio Tartufato - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Very yummy pasta and authentic Italian vibes at @testobrooklyn in Williamsburg. The pasta were amazing and reasonably priced. The tortelli was so refreshing with the butternut squash - recommended! Loved that we could just go in for a quick and easy dinner but at the same time very comfortable and chill in the early evening sunshine. read more

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INCREDIBLE. The butternut squash tortellini with truffle oil was hands down one of the best pastas I've had. The service was good and the ambiance was chill. The portions were great as well. The calamari was amazing and the chicken was well seasoned. 100% would come back here again. read more

Testo Restaurant - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Testo in East Williamsburg is Northern Italian restaurant serving Piadine and delicious fresh pastas. We took advantage of their generous 25% off happy hour to order a bottle of Sangiovese and round of aperol spirtzes followed by a mussels in a white wine sauce, romaine salad, and plum tomato, ricotta and kale Piadine, a northern Italian unleavened flatbread folded pita-pocket style. For pastas we had the two pasta specials, a pappardelle with wagyu beef and grated ricotta, tagliatelle with lobster, crab meats and mussels alongside the butternut squash tortelli and mushroom ravioli from the regular menu. The pastas were all so good and so reasonably priced. For dessert, you know we had to get the tiramisu which was topped with sweet strawberries. Testo is exactly what you want your neighborhood Italian spot to be, affordable, inviting, and *chef's kiss* read more

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holy cow that was tasty! Super cute and romantic little corner spot. Focaccia appetizer, pasta course, and mousse dessert were all to die for. read more

Looking for a no-frills, bottomless coffee affordable brunch spot? Testo meets the mark. They have some outdoor and indoor dining, but not too many spots so try not to get there during peak hours, or just make a reservation beforehand (you can reserve a table for brunch). We ordered the Norwegian Benny ($13) with home fries. All orders come coffee. I thought it was a solid, satisfying plate of food. Next time I'll also try the shrimp and waffles. read more

Testo Restaurant - NORWEGIAN BENEDICT - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I don't normally write reviews, but this place is an absolute must-visit. The atmosphere is cozy and cute, and the service was incredible. Our waiter went above and beyond. I had amazing gluten-free pasta, and the staff was very accommodating with my allergy and extremely knowledgeable about gluten-free items. The Cozze in Padella and the Tagliolini al Pesce were amazing! We will definitely be back. read more

Testo Restaurant - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Love this Italian restaurant, especially for butternut squash tortellini and fish specials.

We love Testo. Dinners are really nice.There's always new and creative specials. But, BRUNCH is awesome! Best French Toast! Ever! read more

Testo was really great!! a neighborhood gem. I've walked past it a lot but haven't actually stopped inside until recently. i walked in with my sisters and friend on a thursday evening and didn't have an issue getting seated. our server was really nice and veryy quick! we ordered the arugula, prosciutto, and mozarella piadina, the mushroom ravioli, pappardelle, calamari, and the veg lasagna. everything was really flavorful and filling, and my personal favorite might have been the lasagna actually. it was also really reasonably priced, our dinner came out to 78 after tax. they had a really extensive drink menu/wine list but i didn't get to try any. definitely want to next time! read more

Testo Restaurant - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

New local fav! Came to Testo on a whim for brunch last Sunday. Very cute traditional Italian restaurant vibes. It wasn't too crowded when we arrived. We sat in the front of the restaurant, with only another table of diners in our section. We got there before 4pm, so we were able to take advantage of the brunch menu. I ordered the Pappardelle dish which came with kale, and sun dried tomatoes in a light tomato sauce. (I asked for them to exclude the sausage and meat items otherwise included.) My bf had the Carbonara. Both had the unlimited coffee. The portions were large enough for brunch; we were absolutely filled in the best way. Everything was so delicious! Definitely will be coming back to try dinner. read more

Testo Restaurant - Pappardelle Cavolo, Pomodorini Secchi e Salsiccia - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Ambience was beautiful, food was super fresh and delicious, service was amazing. I wished my appetite was heartier that night...I could have better appreciated the care that went into the dishes . read more

Solid spot. We got the sardines and fried calamari for apps, the Butternut Squash Tortellini and the seafood pasta. The calamari was crunchy and lightly battered. Sardines were too fishy for my liking, but my friend liked them. The Seafood Pasta and Butternut Squash Tortellini were both good in their own ways. Both were very flavorful! Would recommend! read more

Testo Restaurant - Sardines and fried calamari - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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I did an event here with some friends and the experience was fab!!! the service, the food and ambiance were all amazing.

An absolute neighborhood gem Testo is a great spot for couples or groups to meet over a delicious Italian meal and some lovely wine. I personally recommend the Tortelli di Zucca e Olio Tartufato ("butternut squash filled tortellini!") The happy hour is also worth a visit if you're looking for a spot at the bar to catch up on your book over a glass. 5 out of 5 stars for the friendly staff, yummy food, and plenty of intimate seating. read more

Had the prosciutto eggs Benedict for brunch and it was fantastic! Eggs poached perfectly. Great flavor. Enjoyed the unlimited coffee and the aperol spritz too! Will have to come back. read more

Testo Restaurant - PARMA PROSCIUTTO BENEDICT with baby arugula - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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I've been here twice so far and I think it's a pretty solid neighborhood Italian place. If you're visiting on the wkend, call ahead and make a reservation. They've also expanded with a seating area in the back. I've had the squid ink pasta and the seafood linguine here. The tiramisu is also pretty solid. Overall recommend! read more

One of my favorite places in Brooklyn that I've been patronizing since the pre-pandemic days. This place is near and dear to my heart. They have daily specials and a delightful permanent menu and everything is divine. COVID-specific notes as I've been back for their outdoor seating: They do a really great job spacing apart the tables and have hand sanitizer for you to use. Employees are masked and keep their distance when checking in on you. They've also recently started taking card payments. read more

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This area of East Williamsburg is a no man's land for restaurants (or really anything else), which just makes Testo such an unexpected pleasure. We found ourselves in the neighborhood for reasons that shall remain unsaid,* and it was clear from the full house on a Wednesday evening that this neighborhood knows Testo is the bees' knees. There was one lovely woman operating the front of the house, and despite all the tables she had, the service was excellent. We had everything we needed including great bread to start with olive oil and vinegar, strong pours of affordable wine, attention when we needed it, and time to ourselves when we didn't. The menu is fairly simple, and shockingly affordable for Brooklyn in 2018: The spinach salad contains roasted beets, pears, gorgonzola, walnuts, and is well-seasoned and dressed in a balsamic reduction...all this tastiness comes in at a cool $7.50. I honestly forgot prices could end in $.50, and that things could cost under $10. I thought the piadini (a Northern Italian flatbread set on a special griddle called a testo, so we had to order one) would be a small snack; it's more like a full meal that lands somewhere between a sandwich and a quesadilla. Mozzarella, tomato, and arugula is a winner, although I think it could use some balsamic as well. And pasta is the real star of the Testo show. We shared the Maltagliati Salsiccia ($15) and the Tortelli di Zucca e Olio Tartufato ($14). The former is squares of roughly cut pasta with sausage; beware, the bitterness of the radicchio and the funkiness of the taleggio is a strong flavor that isn't for everyone. I was down with it, my wife less so. The latter is a crowd-pleasing, rich pasta filled with cheese and butternut squash, and a sauce of basically just butter. I can't imagine anyone wouldn't like this. If you find yourself in the area, you'd be hard-pressed to a spot as cozy, delicious, and affordable as Testo. It's a great spot for a date, as it's very conducive to quiet conversation or just eavesdropping on the sociopaths sitting next to you. Cash only. _____________ *Reasons not worth recounting. We weren't buying drugs, I swear. No seriously, we weren't. read more

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I know we just met, but If you're ANYWHERE near here, please do me (and yourself) a favor and don't think about - just head over, grab a seat, say hello to Max and get ready for one of the most wonderful dining experiences you're likely to find. If you're lucky he might even drop off a sample of his homemade "grapefruit-cello" after your meal! read more

Testo Restaurant - Polipo - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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I had my birthday dinner at Testo this past weekend. I can't possibly say enough good things. My friends were all blown away by how phenomenally they did. Dominik, one of the owners, was amazing from start to finish. He helped me in planning the menu and was incredibly flexible when I had some last-minute cancelations and additions. People are still talking about the butternut squash tortelli. The party was 36 people and the service was absolutely impeccable. No one had an empty glass at any point in the night, more than enough food for everyone, and quick reactions from the waitstaff when we spilled wine not once but three times (and they couldn't have been nicer about it!). I can't recommend this place enough; I've been going for years. Whether you're going for brunch (the best chicken and waffles in Brooklyn), dinner, or having a party of 40 people (or less or more!), you won't regret having it here. THANK YOU TESTO! read more

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The four of us were visiting the area for a concert at Brooklyn Bowl ... one of us lives in Harlem and the rest were in town from Michigan. We were looking for an authentic Italian place; a neighborhood spot - and Testo came up as a highly rated option. This quaint little corner spot fit the bill! We were immediately greeted by our server, who was very friendly and helpful with assisting us in making our selections. Service was quite prompt. We ordered two bottles of wine, two salads, and three pasta dishes (including a selection from the day's specials). The portions were generous enough to share as we did, and the food was fresh and delicious, concluding with the tiramisu and a grapefruit-based limoncello that was out of this world. We couldn't have been more pleased! read more

The restaurant looks like a bar. The back room leaves much to be desired but worst of all the food was terrible. The 3 of us ate something different. All of us thought it was severely overpriced and was not good at all. They did the food to look good and that is all. I asked for salad dressing and they had none. My steak was said to be an 8-ounce but it was sure a 4. My wife's Gnocchi was small hard and very green. My daughters $30 special was supposed to be a breast of chicken etc over mashed potatoes. It appeared like a smashed piece of dark chicken. To top it off the manager or owner (male) was rude. He didn't like answering questions about the food we were about to order. He was rushing us as if he was in a real hurry. Don't go here. Our bill was $112.00 it wasn't worth $20 read more

Amazing place! Atmosphere, food, and service are all amazing. The waiter was so friendly and they also have a daily special menu in addition to their standard menu. Most of the dishes can be made gluten free as the staff is knowledgeable about celiac and has gluten free alternatives for the dishes that aren't naturally gluten free. Wine selection is also really good. Overall prices are really manageable as well and the portions were absolutely massive! Will definitely return here. read more

Testo Restaurant - Caprese di Bufala - Italian Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Some days, it's nice to order in and that day was Friday, last day of the work week. Everyday, Testo has a special menu of the day and offers slightly varied entrees. For this menu, they offered Lemon tart and a free shot of housemade grapefruitcello (strong!!) along with your order. Right now, it's pick-up only so I highly recommend ordering ahead. Wine is an option! Taglioni Verdi al Pesce - love the pasta, fish was a bit over done but really, what can you expect by the time you take it home? Ravioli di Rapette Rosse - the beet ravioli is sweet and tasty, never had anything like it. recommend to use their butter sauce as bread dip. Maltagliati Porcini e Salsiccia di Cinghiale - the blend of mushroom and porcini was well done. Meals from here are like from your Italian family to your home. read more

Love this spot! Visited for a few friends for my birthday dinner and the vibes were just what I like. It's a smaller spot with genuine Italian dishes and wines (my Italian friend approved). We made a reservation prior and I'd recommend it before as well since it's small restaurant. When it came time to order i decided to go with the BISTECCA DI MANZO AL BALSAMICO which was phenomenal (and filling). Come here with a close group of friends for good times, great wine, and even better service from the staff here. read more