Alex Eats World

As recent as a few weeks ago, whenever people would ask me for brunch recommendations, I’d give the typically hot brunch spots – Clinton Street, Prune, Sarabeth’s, Penelope, Balthazar, Little Owl, Calle Ocho and so on. Now however, there is one and only answer – MOTORINO! Yes, pizza for brunch. Yes, the best savory brunch I’ve ever had in NYC. Before you start wondering how pepperoni or sausage pizza would taste in the mornings, stop. Think fried eggs, mozzarella di bufala, panchetta and fresh basil drizzled with olive oil.

Not only are the toppings wonderful, the pizza itself is glorious. Neopolitan pizza comes with specific rules. The dough must be kneaded by hand and after then formed by hand without the help of a rolling pin. It must be made with specific Italian flour and is cooked a ready after only 90 seconds in a stone oven. There really isn’t a “crust” but a outer rim that rises because there are no toppings on it. You can see how the flour just bubbles up, creating a wonderful, slightly chewy yet crispy “crust”.

This really the perfect way to start off your day.  But wait, there’s more.  As good as the egg pizza is, the appetizers more than hold their own.

The Scarmorza Cheese Crostini with pecorino, white anchovy and garlic combines super fresh ingredients and powerful aromas….think of the best garlic cheese bread you can imagine.

Then there’s the Spicy Roasted Octopus and Potato with chilli oil, lemon and parsley. I’ve never seen octopus and potato as a dish but wow, the wonderful colors and strong distinct tastes make this an amazingly well put together dish.  I’m not going to vouch for their other pizza’s or entrees. This post is about their egg pizza and about brunch. Go check it out Saturday and Sundays from 10am-4pm.

Motorino
349 E 12th St
New York, NY 10003