Fornino Pizza

Weaving my way through the heart of the bustling neighbourhood of Greenpoint, Brooklyn, I soon arrived at Fornino, a true treasure trove of a pizzeria. Upon entering, we were greeted at a bar space buzzing with chatter. The rustic tones of brick and wood were brightened with warm lighting, setting the fun and relaxed mood for the evening as we were shown to the cozy table area past the bar.

We sipped on elegant Strawberry Lemonade Hibiscus Ice Tea as we browsed the seemingly endless choices of pizza which progressed through “generations.” The “first generation” selections included more simple choices such as Marghertia Classica and Marinara. The “second generation” began to include more creative combinations such as the Cosenza adorned with n’duja, butternut squash, stracciatella, oregano and spicy honey.

The “third generation” pizzas were the most inventive, with topping selections that I thought one could only dream of having on pizza. After much deliberation, we selected a new addition to the menu, the Zucchini e pesto which included zucchini, mozzarella, goat cheese, mint pesto and Fresno chilli for an extra kick, along with the Funghi e prosciutto which had shiitake mushroom, prosciutto, mozzarella, tomato, fontina and pecorino. Options for gluten free and vegan substitutes were available, as well as a range of lavish salads and Antipizza.

Due to the smaller size of the restaurant, the atmosphere was intimate and amicable, with the staff providing incredibly friendly and efficient attention to each and every patron. The pizza arrived shortly, presented on a stand ideal for sharing onto separate plates.

I’d never seen pizza that looked so irresistibly inviting and was torn between which to try first, eventually taking a slice of the Funghi e prosciutto. The balance of each ingredient was perfect, with the dough being the ideal consistency so as to enhance rather than overpower the taste of each topping. The Zucchini e pesto was delightfully light and refreshing with the combination of mint pesto and chilli really awakening the taste buds.

Of course, there was still room for dessert with a range of ice cream sundaes available. We chose the Brownie Sundae for Two, quickly devouring the exquisite mountain of warm brownie topped with chocolate ice cream, whipped cream, salted caramel, and chocolate sauce dusted in powdered sugar.

Be sure to visit Fornino’s at 849 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn 11222 to taste some truly scrumptious and inventive pizza with a setup and atmosphere ideal for socialising and sharing. Fornino offers a brunch pizza menu, lunch specials, and a main dinner menu; or if you fancy a night in try their take-out and delivery options!