Gowanus Gets Bitter (in the Best Way)
Why I Built One of Brooklyn’s Best Amaro Collections at Table 87 Gowanus
From Robert Cucco, second-generation owner of Table 87
At Table 87 Gowanus, we’re known for our coal-fired pizza and laid-back neighborhood vibe — but there’s something else we’ve been quietly perfecting: one of the most unique and carefully curated amaro selections in Brooklyn.
Amaro’s having a real moment in 2025. You’re seeing it pop up on cocktail menus everywhere — not just the classics like Campari and Fernet, but all these wild, regional bottles with deep roots and big personalities. People are leaning into bolder, more interesting flavors, and amaro hits that sweet spot: it’s herbal, bitter, complex, and way more interesting than another overly sweet drink. Plus, with the rise of low-ABV and after-dinner sipping culture, it just fits. It’s not a trend for us — it’s tradition — but I love that more people are finally getting curious about it.
If you’ve ever searched for where to drink amaro in NYC or best amaro bars in Brooklyn, I want our name to come up — not just because we carry it, but because I’ve spent a decent amount of time researching, sourcing, and building something truly special behind our bar.
My Personal Journey with Amaro
Amaro — that bold, bitter, herbaceous Italian liqueur — is something I’ve grown to love deeply. What started as a curiosity became a full-on passion project. I didn’t just order bottles off a distributor’s list — I spent time talking to importers, tracking down bottles from small producers, and tasting amari from every region of Italy (and beyond).
From the alpine sharpness of Braulio to the deep caramel notes of Averna, I wanted our guests to experience the real range and beauty of these spirits. Today, our amaro menu features over 60 bottles, making it one of the larger and more eclectic amaro collections in Brooklyn.
Why You Should Come for the Amaro
Whether you’re an amaro aficionado or just getting started, here’s why Table 87 in Gowanus should be on your list of places to drink amaro in NYC:
Amaro Flights in Brooklyn: We offer custom flights so you can explore a variety of styles side by side — sweet, bitter, citrusy, minty, and everything in between.
Craft Amaro Cocktails: Our bartenders create seasonal cocktails that showcase different amari, from refreshing spritzes to complex stirred drinks.
Rare & Small-Batch Bottles: You won’t find this lineup at your average bar. We’ve got hard-to-find Italian amari as well as unique options from France, Vietnam, and even some Brooklyn producers pushing the boundaries.
Perfect After-Pizza Pairing: After enjoying one of our coal-fired pizzas, an amaro is the perfect way to end your meal — bitter, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
What Makes Our Amaro Selection Different?
It’s not just a long list of bottles. I built this collection with purpose, focusing on quality, story, and regional diversity.
We’re proud to be known for great pizza, but we’re just as passionate about the cocktail and amaro experience in Brooklyn. If you're looking for a new favorite digestivo or a place to explore bitter liqueurs in a relaxed, welcoming setting — this is it.
Come by, grab a slice, and let us pour you something you’ve probably never had before. You’ll get it once you try it.
— Robert Cucco