Ferdinando's Focacceria

Ferdinando's Focacceria

151 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, United States

(718) 855-1545

Italian restaurant
(508)
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About This Place

Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn at 151 Union Street, Ferdinando's Focacceria stands as a vibrant testament to over a century of authentic Sicilian culinary tradition. This Italian restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a journey back in time, offering diners an immersive experience where each dish tells the story of Sicily’s rich flavors and cultural heritage.

The moment you step inside Ferdinando’s, the ambiance transports you to a nostalgic era, where rustic charm and warm hospitality create an inviting and unpretentious atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like part of a close-knit family, bolstered by enthusiastic service that’s as heartfelt as the food on the plate.

The menu is a treasure trove of Sicilian classics, boasting a range of antipasti, primi, and piatti that capture the island’s bold and bright flavor palette. Start your culinary adventure with hot antipasti like the Calamari Fritti—crispy fried squid served with a tangy marinara sauce that bursts with freshness. The Gamberi Fritti (fried shrimp) is equally indulgent, delivering satisfying crunch and delicate seafood sweetness. For lighter, cold starters, the creamy Burrata paired with tomato and grilled eggplant offers a silky, tangy bite brimming with Mediterranean sunshine.

Moving into the primi & piatti, you’ll find pastas that sing with authenticity. The Penne Arrabbiata balances a fiery kick with the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes, ideal for spice lovers craving a comforting yet lively dish. Seafood enthusiasts will swoon over the Linguini con Vongole or Linguini with Mussels, both available in rich red or delicate white Italian clam sauces that evoke the coastal essence of Sicily. The Spaghetti alla Bolognese offers a traditional meat sauce that feels like a warm Italian embrace, while the specialty Pasta con Sarde—a rare find in NYC—melds sardines, fennel, pine nuts, and raisins into a complex, unforgettable symphony of flavors that linger long after the last bite.

What truly sets Ferdinando's apart is not just the food, but the way it makes you feel. As one passionate diner put it, “I would kiss the chef if I could—it’s that good.” The dishes here don't just satisfy hunger; they spark joy, connect generations, and revive traditions with every mouthful. Whether it’s the beloved stuffed artichoke or a golden, crispy rice ball special, every item seems crafted with love and pride.

Regular visitors praise Ferdinando's for its consistency and timeless appeal. For decades, locals have returned, drawn by a sense of familiarity and the unwavering quality that echoes the restaurant's 120-year legacy. It’s a place where time slows, and you savor not just the meal, but the story woven into every plate.

If you’re exploring Brooklyn’s culinary landscape, don’t miss Ferdinando's Focacceria. Expect a vibrant, authentic Sicilian experience where phenomenal food, outstanding service, and an atmosphere steeped in history come together to create a truly memorable dining adventure.

Reservations and inquiries can be made by calling (718) 855-1545. Whether you’re craving crispy fried shrimp, a rich seafood linguini, or the best cannoli you’ll ever taste, Ferdinando’s promises to deliver an unforgettable taste of Italy in the heart of Brooklyn.

Service options
Outdoor seating Takeaway Dine-in
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Coffee Food Wine
Dining options
Lunch Dessert Seating

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Visitor Reviews

  • Confessions of a Food Freak
    3 week ago

    Always delicious , stuffed artichoke delicious. Fried shrimp delicious. Panel le sandwich delicious. The rice ball special delicious. Just get it all try it can’t go wrong. Amazing service. The chef is awesome. I would kiss him if I could it’s that good. This place is a gem.

  • Drew Aichele
    1 month ago

    Hidden gem alert. Staff is amazing. Atmosphere is fun and transportive. Food is right on for some NY Sicilian Italian. Very spot on and a super fun name to say. Ferdinando’s Focacceria. Ferdinando’s Focacceria. Ferdinando’s Focacceria! Best cannoli ever too. Best I’ve ever had! Truly.

  • Kathleen Waite
    1 month ago

    I love this place because you feel like you stepped back in time. Plus the food is really good. It is special to me because my boyfriend's parents went there for years and he shared it with me. I highly recommend it!

  • Greg Tam
    2 month ago

    In a quaint area of Brooklyn lies an absolute gem; Ferdinando's Focacceria is an almost 120-year old establishment serving some of the most authentic Italian food in the city. I ordered the Pasta con Sarde on the recommendation of my Italian friend and the waiter. They said this dish is hard to come by in NYC. It is made with sardines, fennel, pine nuts, and raisins. The sardines completely melted and integrated into the sauce. Highly recommend this place.

  • Thomas P Smith NY REAL ESTATE
    3 month ago

    Brooklyn Staple Carroll Gardens Bring CASH we Ol’School ova here. Walking into this establishment brings you back in time. It’s simple and delicious. Order everything on the menu you wont be disappointed. I’ve been coming here for what feels like a lifetime and ordering the same thing. And it’s just as good as when i ordered it 30 years ago. When you make something good you just continue todo so no reason to change it. Also if you never had a Manhattan special ( espresso drink) they have it on tap. It’s the only spot i know that has it.MUST TRY. I hope they never change. Thanks as always

  • Kelly Seoyeon Wang
    3 month ago

    Really good, authentic Italian restaurant. The special aracini riceball was flavorful and got nice texture. Also recommend the sardine pasta which had an interesting flavor that I never tried before. would order the pasta again when I’m back. Service was friendly too.

  • Amanda Mary
    4 month ago

    Super nice waiter, patient with our group- we had an elderly indecisive relative with us who is not the easiest. My dad and I loved our food- we all shared the panelle special, he got the seafood salad and I got the spaghetti with clams and white sauce. It was all great! Very cool to visit such an old part of the borough we are from.

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