House-Made Pasta and Fiorentina Steak in a Greenpoint Dining Room

Executive Chef Ed Cotton runs the kitchen at this Greenpoint Italian spot on Java Street, a block off the East River. The dining room leans rustic, with an animal city mural stretched across one wall and reclaimed wood framing the bar. The menu draws on Puglia, and the house-made pasta gets top billing, with the fungi version among the dishes regulars order on repeat. The bistecca alla Fiorentina lands as the centerpiece, a charred, generous cut meant for sharing. Roasted eggplant holds its own among the starters, and the bomboloni close things out warm and sugar-dusted. Arrive early and the happy hour keeps the tab reasonable, with a full bar and live music on some nights. Warmer months open up the outdoor seating. Dinner runs Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00 PM, with the kitchen holding later on Friday and Saturday.