Roberta's entry into the Bushwick neighborhood back in 2008 contributed to the transformation of the semi-desolate space into a hang for all things cool up and coming. Because Roberta's wasn't just doling out pies for the hell of it, they were redefining what a pizzeria could be—one that uses fresh ingredients (many of which are plucked from its rooftop garden) and that champions the sustainable food movement, all wrapped in a punk-like package.
Nearing its 20-year mark, the little pizzeria that could has gone mainstream with a Whole Foods partnership, frozen pies shipped direct to consumers and multiple locations worldwide (hello, Singapore!). But we still tip our hats to the OG that started it all. Even now, an order made to please starts with the delightfully cheesy Fire & Ice appetizer with stringy stracciatella, paired with one of its various vegetable dishes, like the charred maitake mushrooms coated in bright green herby sauce. Naturally, the wood-fired pies are still the main draw, the Bee Sting with that signature swirl of hot honey that spawned the trend still one of the best of em'.
The vibe: Punk. Irreverent. Likely to please out-of-towners who are looking for the trendiest side of the city. Plus, the original outpost has quite the real estate, one that includes a covered dining room, an open-air patio, a tented tiki bar and a takeout nook for those of us on the go.
The food: Most dishes get the go-around in Roberta's wood-fired ovens—pizzas, vegetables and all types of proteins. But even the ones that don't, like the handmade pasta, are still just as special.
The drink: The red-lit outdoor bar deals in tiki-ish drinks or you can sip on a lengthy list of cocktails (including a few non-alcoholic options), beers and bottles of wine by the glass or bottle.
Time Out tip: The restaurant doles out brunch fare during the AM hours—think steak and eggs and waffles with cultured butter. But the ultimate hangover cure can be found with its pizzas like the Guanciale & Egg that's meaty, cheesy with a nicely cooked egg cracked on top.