Lilia has been one of the most buzzed-about pasta destinations in New York City since it opened its doors in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Missy Robbins, the restaurant draws steady lines, glowing critic reviews, and serious pasta lovers from around the world. But does it live up to the hype?

Here’s a full sensory breakdown of the experience—from ambiance to pasta perfection—to help you decide if Lilia deserves a spot on your culinary bucket list.

The Setting: Industrial Charm Meets Warm Minimalism

Located in a restored auto-body shop, Lilia’s dining room blends exposed brick and soaring windows with soft lighting and clean lines. The open kitchen, visible from nearly every seat, creates an immediate connection to the craft happening behind the scenes. There’s an energy to the space—buzzy but never overwhelming—that feels perfectly matched to the neighborhood’s upscale-casual vibe.

You can book a table (well in advance) through Resy or try your luck at the bar for walk-in seating.

The Service: Efficient, Friendly, and Unpretentious

Service at Lilia is polished but approachable. The staff knows the menu intimately and will gladly guide you toward crowd favorites or off-menu specials. Courses are well-paced, and dishes arrive with just enough spacing to savor each bite without feeling rushed.

The Food: Pasta That Speaks Fluent Italian

Lilia’s menu focuses on wood-fired vegetables, seafood, and most notably, pasta. The portions are intentionally restrained—meant for sharing and savoring. Here are the standouts from a recent dinner:

• Sheep’s Milk Agnolotti with Saffron, Dried Tomato, and Honey: A perfect balance of savory and sweet, with delicate pasta pockets and a silky sauce.
  
• Mafaldini with Pink Peppercorn and Parmesan: Lilia’s most iconic dish, and for good reason. The mafaldini’s frilly edges grip a creamy, peppery sauce that delivers bold flavor without heaviness.
  
• Grilled Blowfish Tails with Spicy Breadcrumbs: An unexpected favorite—meaty, crispy, and seasoned to perfection.
  
• Wood-Fired Clams with Calabrian Chili and Breadcrumbs: Briny, smoky, and just spicy enough to keep you reaching for another bite.
  

Don’t skip dessert—the Olive Oil Cake and Soft-Serve Gelato Affogato are excellent endings to the meal.

Explore the full menu on Lilia’s official site.

The Verdict: Worth the Wait

Lilia’s hype is well-earned. It balances precision and creativity, authenticity and innovation. It’s not a white-tablecloth experience, but it doesn’t need to be—the food and energy speak volumes. For pasta lovers, especially those with a soft spot for Roman classics reimagined with finesse, Lilia is a must-visit.

That said, reservations can be tough. If you’re planning a visit, book early or set an alert through apps like Resy.

Final Bite

Lilia proves that great pasta isn’t just about tradition—it’s about execution, boldness, and the care poured into every plate. Whether you’re visiting Brooklyn for a special occasion or making a pilgrimage from across the river, this pasta-forward spot lives up to the praise—and then some.