★★★★
Overall Rating: Excellent ($$)
As I have expanded upon in previous posts, there are pizza bakers out there who are strongly inspired by, and true to, the Neapolitan roots and traditions of pizza. These bakers are not confined to New York, but can be found nationwide, particularly in cities with strong Italian immigration history, such as New Haven, New Orleans, Tampa, Chicago, Galveston, Birmingham and many others. In these centers of Italian heritage, we find those wonderful pizzas that display the best aspects of the American manifestation of Neapolitan pizza and solid Neapolitan characteristics.
Juliana's is one of the best presentations of the blend of American and Neapolitan traditions I have encountered.
Pizza type:
Pizza ordered: Margherita
Crust: The crust produced in Juliana's 850 degree F, coal fired, brick oven is near perfection. The charred bottom is completely distributed under the crust, and the coal fire flavor just present enough. The edges of the crust display a nice blistering. This blistering blends into an evenly distributed, slight firmness and an ever so subtle crispiness throughout the remainder. Juliana's crust is as good as I've seen in "first-generation" Neapolitan inspired pizza.
Sauce: Juliana's pizza is complimented by fresh, delicate, crushed tomatoes that are gently spiced. The resulting sauce is just present enough, but does not over-power any other flavors.
Cheese: The cheese is a fresh mozzarella applied adequately, but as with the sauce, not overly-present. The cheese adds a nice complimentary flavor as it should.
Other Topping(s): The basil was fresh and barely cooked, as desirable; however, it was a bit sparsely applied. A bit more basil would have achieved an excellent balance of flavors.
Atmosphere: Juliana's does a good job of balancing urban chic with classic pizzeria ambiance. Unlike many New York City pizzerias, the tables are not so close as to give crowded feel; you have a bit of elbow room.
Service: We arrived around 1:00 p.m. and were greeted by a very friendly staff. The Server gave use plenty of time to look over the menu and ask any questions; however, we new what we wanted...the classic Margherita!
Utensils: Sturdy utensils and substantial paper napkins.
Overall: Juliana's hits the mark as an excellent First Generation, Neapolitan-inspired, New York style pizza. Virtually every aspect of the pie is satisfying and displays strong Neapolitan characteristics. Juliana's is a "Don't miss" in Brooklyn, NYC, NY.
Payment: Cash /Credit cards
