La Bottega Italian Gourmet — Restaurant in Town of Hempstead

I would use the word "bistro," but honestly, I'm not entirely sure what a bistro is. If I had to describe one, though, I would say the qualities of a good bistro are intimacy and the malleability and creativity of the menu. If I hit the nail on the head, then Cafe Barocca hit the nail on the bistro. I don't think it could seat more than 20 people, but I've never struggled to find a seat. I've been there for brunch and lunch. The food is good on its own, but when you look at the price, you realize that it is a GREAT DEAL. The coffee is excellent too. Sometimes, the service is lackluster (sometimes slow, sometimes everyone disappears for a while), but they are observant, professional, and they care when they are actually around (most of the time, really).

Haven't had any of the wine or tapas because I am not froufy or yuppy enough, but maybe one day. I'm sure...

What a wonderful experience!! The vibe is just as what people have said. Feels like home with great attention in service from the staff. The foid felt like it was cooked from the heart. You can literally see the care they take in cooking the meals.We also appreciated when the owner stopped by our table on his way out and asked if we needed any explanation of menu . He obviously wasn't working today but thought enough to stop to talk to us..This tells you the level of service you get. And you have to take a stroll around place. Not a big place but they have eating areas in the coolest nooks and cranies of the place. Highly...

this place is such a hidden gem 🥹 the food is amazing, the portions are great for tapas and affordable, the service is so great, the place is nice and quiet. i live all the way in brooklyn and have seriously considered making the trip back just to...