Amorina Cucina Rustica

Amorina Cucina Rustica is a beloved and lively Italian restaurant located in the heart of Prospect Heights on Vanderbilt Avenue in Brooklyn, New York.

For years, owners Ellen Fishman and Albano Ballerini have been serving authentic, Roman-style thin crust pizza and hearty pasta dishes—all sourced from local and organic ingredients—in a casual setting. The menu showcases their dedication to Italian tradition and to the season with their carefully selected weekly “Will To Live” pizza and special pastas and salads.

Amorina is open daily for dinner and for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Margherita and rustica slices are also available for takeout.

The restaurant Amorina takes its name and inspiration from Albano’s grandmother, Amorina. She owned a cafe in post-war,1940s Italy in a small, bustling town along the Adriatic coast. Albano grew up in the family business working in the cafe into adulthood when he emigrated to New York.

Walking into Amorina, you’re transported back to that time, as the nostalgic and cheerfully eclectic décor is accented with mementos from Amorina’s own café.