Monk Makes It Happen!

Brooklyn's now has great pizza in Williamsburg, because Monk Bar & Pizzeria does it right! If you haven't been to this beautiful space with lofted ceilings over on Kent Ave and tasted their awesome Italian offerings, you're missing out. Last night, the best of Brooklyn Yelp headed over for an exclusive evening in the absolutely gorgeous new space, and Monk did not disappoint. 

The dual levels are beautifully appointed and take full advantage of the loft. With counter seating in front of the two-door brick oven, communal tables and smaller two-tops, it's ideal for big groups or an elegant date. The huge windows let in lovely natural light, and as Daniel B reports, "For a few glorious minutes I got a nice view of the sunset, a large pure orange disc of hot awesomeness hovering in the sky in full view of the dining area."

Most importantly, their traditional Southern Italian cuisine is absolutely impeccable. From the first bite of the Herbed Goat Cheese and Beet Crostini, we all knew we were in for a treat. Great bowls of Arugula, Pear, Walnut and Gorgonzola Salad with honey balsamic vinagrette were placed about to prime appetites, and although Dorie L is not trying to be a brown-noser, she reports that all "the food was amazing," and the Penne alla Miele was "the best I've ever had."

The centerpiece of course, were the pies. Monk's pizzaiolo Giuseppe toiled to turn out ten varieties of pizza baked in the wood burning ovens using the finest imported organic flour from Italy, natural starters, DOC tomatoes and fior de latte mozzarella. With the finest ingredients, it's no surprise that many a yelper was shocked by its deliciousness (since they hadn't yet heard about Monk), and Marisa L appreciated "the impressive, perfect thin crust."

And of course, a pizza party without beer would be some sort of sin. Empire Brewing Company generously brought out their brewed in Brooklyn and untouchable Amber Ale, as well as the signature Empire IPA that Yan T touts as the perfect "summer sipper–with enough flavor but not overpowering in IBU." If you love those (and we all did), you should also check out their White Aphro available around the borough!

Basically, Monk knows how to throw a helluva party; a huge thanks to Felipe, Giuseppe and the rest of the staff for welcoming us in and showing us what real Italian cooking is all about! Whether or not you made it out, make sure to check out the reviews of the event, the photos from the lovely Liz Clayman, and what folks are saying all over.

Cheers,
Peter D and the rest of the Yelp NYC Team