Basil, Brooklyn’s one of a kind pizza and wine bar, made its debut in 2010. It soon received acclaim from prestigious publications like The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and Wine Spectator Magazine. Owned by Daniel Branover and Clara Perez, Basil features trendy cuisine that has enticed kosher diners, vegetarian diners & non-kosher diners alike. Its menu has been updated by Chef extraordinaire Jose Soto, who grew up just a few blocks away and trained at a host of Manhattan non-kosher eateries, including the great Savoy Restaurant in Soho, now Black Forty.

Offering distinctive and exciting combinations, Basil’s menu is certainly not for the ‘hamburger-French fry-chicken nugget’ crowd. Try the Arugula Salad for a wonderful blend of flavors- warm goat cheese, beets, arugula, truffle vinaigrette and pine nuts, or the Parmesan and Asparagus Pizza- parmiggiano, smoked paprika, Vidalia onions, roasted peppers and white asparagus- for a warm, crusty and filling meal. And, of course, don’t miss the famous Basil Fries – crunchy, homemade fries topped with parmesan cheese and parsley, served with a warm garlic-mayo dipping sauce. Everything is plated to perfection by sous chef Kevin Noccioli, an artist at heart who treats every white plate as his canvas. With its modern interior and background music; the sleek, steel and marble furniture is softened by the warm glow the pizza oven casts over the room. Sample Basil’s superior collection of red and white wines and assorted beers, and don’t forget the dessert menu with items like cheese cake, funnel cake and tiramisu.

Look out for other fabulous desserts by pastry Chef Yoko Yobuko, an investment banker who changed careers to pursue her passion for baking to create delicious, funky and seasonal delicacies. In fact, Chef Yobuko worked at Daniel as well as Eleven Madison Park, which many consider the best non-kosher restaurant in Manhattan.

If you’re in the area, visit Chabad World Headquarters, take a walking tour, stroll along Eastern Parkway and explore the Jewish Children’s Museum. End your day with a leisurely meal here and savor the flavors of this eclectic restaurant.