Daphne's

Tucked into a quiet corner of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Daphne’s offers something a bit different from your typical neighborhood Italian joint. The space exudes a romantic, low-key vibe with green leather booths bathed in candlelight and an open kitchen that keeps the energy flowing without feeling fussy. Paper-covered tables invite you to linger (and maybe doodle after a few glasses of wine), while the staff happily pours natural wines that pair beautifully with the creative menu.

The kitchen here takes Italian classics and gives them an unexpected spin. Think baked scallops topped with parmesan and calabrian chili, or beef tartare served with crispy lasagna chips instead of the usual crostini. The grilled calamari salad, dressed with a tangy yuzu kosho vinaigrette and studded with castelvetrano olives, makes for an excellent starter. When the pastas hit their mark—like a deeply satisfying beef cheek ragu—they’re genuinely memorable. The swordfish milanese is another standout, featuring a fork-tender cutlet that practically melts.

That said, Daphne’s can be a bit of a gamble. Some visits deliver plates that are oversalted or slightly undercooked, while others leave you dreaming about what you ate for days afterward. The inconsistency means this might not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget or traveling across the city specifically to eat here.

For Bed-Stuy locals willing to roll the dice, though, Daphne’s offers something genuinely charming—an inventive Italian-ish spot where the highs are high and the atmosphere never disappoints. Grab some adventurous friends, order a bottle of natural wine, and see what the kitchen has in store. When it clicks, it really clicks.