Brooklyn's Hot Spots: Anella

The village atmosphere of Brooklyn's Greenpoint has inspired small business owners in the food and wine industry to do great things. Anella, a relatively new neighborhood restaurant, embodies the mellow and understated hip atmosphere that makes Greenpoint so popular.  The rustic design and friendly staff make it clear that this spot is not about frills or gimmicks, just really great food in a comfortable environment.

 

             As relaxed as the décor and staff are, the attention to culinary detail and selection of ingredients is of the highest standard. Working with local farms and using sustainable ingredients wherever possible, Anella caters to the sophistication and social awareness of the neighborhood.  The modern American/Mediterranean food is comforting and wholesome. There’s no molecular gastronomy here, the creativity of Chef Ogrodnek relies on his intuitive balancing of natural flavors present in high quality ingredients. He walks the fine line, making everything on the menu approachable without being boring.

            Alfred DiScipio equally contributes to the charm of Anella with seasonal cocktails and thoughtful wine list. They feature wines from lesser-known regions of Italy, as well as wines sourced from local companies, including wine from the Hudson Valley and wine from a Brooklyn-based company. Each wine is carefully selected to compliment the food’s flavors and style as well as the overall philosophy of Anella.

             The team here make it seem effortless, the superior customer service, the delicious food, the crafted cocktails and deliberate wines, and a feel-at-home environment. Though it’s often these simple effects that are the hardest to achieve. Already so accomplished and focused, Anella promises to serve the Greenpoint community satisfying dining experiences for a long time to come. 

To Eat:

Brussle Sprouts with Lemon, Capers and Garlic Confit: The tanginess of the lemon and the saltiness of the capers along with the deep nuttiness of the nicely colored brussle sprouts is an example of Chef Ogrodnek’s ability to combine simple high quality ingredients and create a dish that sings in the mouth. You must try this dish.

Hot Coppa, Ricotta and Fried Egg Pizza: Hot from their brick oven, the soft egg acts as a sauce for this rustic pizza, creating a flavorful and rich snack. 

Calamari: A perfect example of a simple classic done spectacularly, the calamari was crisp and lightly fried on the outside and oh-so-tender on the inside, served with anchovy mayo for an extra burst of flavor.

To Drink:

Spiced Ruby Sidecar: This chilled and refreshing drink is perfect in cooler months, featuring a winter spiced simple syrup and ruby port for extra depth and warmth. 

Millbrook Tocai Fruilano: Made from the Tocai grape in the style of the wines of Friuli, this Hudson Valley version holds its own with peachy aromas, mineral flavors and a crisp finish.

Alpha Zeta Valpolicella: Coming from Brooklyn’s own Communal Brands, this classic Italian wine is fresh, fruity, and a perfect compliment to Anella’s menu.