Roberta’s, a popular pizza restaurant in Bushwick, expanded to the Penn Station/Madison Square Garden area after 15 years of success. The new location offers the same delicious pizza, pasta, and Italian dishes in a larger setting with indoor and outdoor seating available. Despite the chaotic surroundings of traffic and construction, the food at Roberta’s remains exceptional, maintaining the high quality that customers have come to expect.
The outdoor patio at the new Roberta’s location provides a unique dining experience surrounded by Manhattan’s bustling atmosphere. The indoor dining area, although lacking in ambiance, does not detract from the enjoyment of the food. Owners Carlo Mirarchi and Brandon Hoy partnered with Vornado Realty Trust to open the new restaurant in a newly developed building, contributing to the revitalization of the West 30s area and attracting a more sophisticated clientele.
Skeptical at first, the author was pleasantly surprised by the new Roberta’s location, as the kitchen staff demonstrated skill in preparing the menu items with consistent quality. The executive chef oversees the wood-fired ovens that produce delicious pizzas in a short amount of time. The margherita pie, a classic favorite, continues to impress with its thin crust and fresh ingredients. Additional toppings are available to customize the pizzas, but the plain versions are just as satisfying.
A variety of pizza options are offered on the menu, with unique combinations of flavors such as buffalo mozzarella and Sungold tomatoes. The menu changes frequently, ensuring a diverse selection of dishes for customers to enjoy. Specialties like the lobster spaghettini and Heritage porchetta showcase the culinary expertise of the kitchen staff. A flatbread appetizer served with stracciatella cheese and anchovies is a decadent starter that is worth trying.
As the weather turns colder, the outdoor dining experience at Roberta’s will transition indoors, so the author recommends visiting the new location soon to experience the unique environment while dining on delicious food. The expansion of Roberta’s to a new area signifies a cultural and culinary shift that may change perceptions of the neighborhood. Overall, the new Roberta’s location successfully captures the essence of the original restaurant, providing a welcoming space for diners to enjoy exceptional food in the heart of Manhattan.
