N※N

The Team Behind the Michelin-Starred Four Horsemen Just Opened a New Italian Restaurant

In the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, a new culinary gem has emerged with the opening of I Cavallini, an Italian restaurant that promises to redefine the dining experience in this vibrant neighborhood. Nestled within the space previously occupied by the beloved Four Horsemen, I Cavallini is a bold venture by chef Marco Gallotta and restaurateur James Murphy, who have teamed up to create a dining destination that blends traditional Italian flavors with a modern, convivial atmosphere. This new establishment is not merely a restaurant but a cultural statement, aiming to capture the essence of Italian hospitality while paying homage to the legacy of its predecessor.

I Cavallini, which translates to "The Little Horses" in Italian, is a nod to the Four Horsemen, the wine bar and restaurant that Murphy co-founded in 2015. The Four Horsemen became a cornerstone of Williamsburg’s dining scene, known for its exceptional natural wine selection and innovative small plates. However, after nearly a decade of operation, Murphy decided to close the Four Horsemen in late 2023 to make way for this new concept. The decision was not taken lightly, as the Four Horsemen held a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Yet, Murphy saw an opportunity to evolve and bring something fresh to the table, quite literally, by partnering with Gallotta, a chef with deep roots in Italian cuisine.

Chef Marco Gallotta brings a wealth of experience to I Cavallini, having honed his skills in some of Italy’s most renowned kitchens before making his mark in New York City. His culinary philosophy is rooted in the traditions of his homeland, emphasizing the use of high-quality, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both authentic and inventive. At I Cavallini, Gallotta aims to transport diners to Italy through his food, offering a menu that reflects the diversity of Italian regional cuisines while incorporating modern techniques and presentations. The result is a dining experience that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking, a balance that is not easy to achieve but one that Gallotta seems poised to master.

The menu at I Cavallini is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage, featuring a range of dishes that span from hearty pastas to delicate seafood preparations. Standout offerings include handmade pastas like tagliatelle al ragù, a classic Bolognese-style dish that showcases Gallotta’s attention to detail in building layers of flavor, and cacio e pepe, a Roman staple that is deceptively simple yet incredibly difficult to perfect. Beyond pasta, the menu includes antipasti such as prosciutto e melone, a refreshing combination of cured ham and sweet melon, and vitello tonnato, a Piedmontese dish of thinly sliced veal topped with a creamy tuna sauce. For mains, diners can expect dishes like branzino al forno, a whole roasted sea bass infused with Mediterranean herbs, and ossobuco alla Milanese, a slow-braised veal shank served with saffron risotto. Each dish is crafted with precision, reflecting Gallotta’s commitment to authenticity while also allowing for creative flourishes that make the food feel contemporary.

Beyond the food, I Cavallini places a strong emphasis on creating an atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Italian dining, which is as much about community and connection as it is about the meal itself. The restaurant’s design retains elements of the Four Horsemen’s minimalist aesthetic but introduces warmer tones and textures to evoke the rustic charm of an Italian trattoria. Wooden tables, soft lighting, and vintage accents create an inviting space where diners feel at ease, whether they’re enjoying a casual weeknight dinner or celebrating a special occasion. The layout encourages interaction, with communal tables and an open kitchen that allows guests to watch the culinary team at work. This sense of transparency and accessibility is intentional, as Murphy and Gallotta want diners to feel like they’re part of the family, a hallmark of Italian hospitality.

Another key component of I Cavallini is its beverage program, which builds on the Four Horsemen’s reputation for curating an exceptional wine list. While the focus has shifted from natural wines to a broader selection of Italian varietals, the commitment to quality remains unchanged. The wine list features bottles from renowned regions like Tuscany, Piedmont, and Sicily, offering something for every palate, from bold Barolos to crisp Pinot Grigios. In addition to wine, the bar offers a selection of classic Italian cocktails, such as the Negroni and Aperol Spritz, as well as house-made amari and digestivi to cap off the meal. The beverage offerings are designed to complement the food, enhancing the overall dining experience and providing a true taste of Italy.

I Cavallini also aims to be a neighborhood hub, much like the Four Horsemen was before it. Murphy, who has long been a fixture in Williamsburg’s cultural scene, understands the importance of creating a space that feels inclusive and welcoming to all. To that end, the restaurant offers a range of dining options, from à la carte menus to family-style feasts that encourage sharing and conversation. There are plans for special events, such as wine tastings and chef’s table dinners, to further engage the community and provide unique experiences for regulars and newcomers alike. This focus on community is evident in every aspect of I Cavallini, from the friendly, attentive service to the thoughtful touches that make diners feel at home.

The opening of I Cavallini comes at a time when Williamsburg continues to evolve as a culinary destination. Once known primarily for its hipster bars and divey diners, the neighborhood has grown into a food lover’s paradise, with an ever-expanding roster of restaurants that cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. I Cavallini fits seamlessly into this landscape, offering a refined yet approachable take on Italian cuisine that feels both timeless and of-the-moment. It’s a testament to the vision of Murphy and Gallotta, who have managed to honor the legacy of the Four Horsemen while carving out a distinct identity for their new venture.

For those who mourned the closure of the Four Horsemen, I Cavallini offers a chance to rediscover the magic of this iconic space through a new lens. It’s a place where the past and present converge, where the spirit of Italian dining comes alive in the heart of Brooklyn. Whether you’re a longtime resident of Williamsburg or a visitor passing through, I Cavallini promises an experience that is as memorable as it is delicious. From the first bite of perfectly al dente pasta to the last sip of a robust red wine, every moment at I Cavallini is an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of good food and good company.

In conclusion, I Cavallini is more than just a restaurant; it’s a love letter to Italian culture and a tribute to the enduring power of shared meals. With Chef Marco Gallotta at the helm and James Murphy’s vision guiding the way, this new establishment is poised to become a beloved fixture in Williamsburg’s dining scene. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, where every dish tells a story, and where diners are welcomed with open arms. As I Cavallini settles into its role as a neighborhood staple, it’s clear that the legacy of the Four Horsemen lives on, reimagined through the lens of Italian hospitality and culinary excellence. For anyone seeking an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of Brooklyn, I Cavallini is a destination not to be missed.

Read the Full Robb Report Article at:
[ https://robbreport.com/food-drink/dining/four-horsemen-i-cavallini-italian-restaurant-1236886834/ ]