You'll know you're nearing al di la when you see groups of people waiting outside for a table. The dining room is comfortably rustic, with a pressed-tin ceiling and communal bare wooden tables. Generous amounts of browned butter and oils, and plenty of care go into the authentic Italian dishes. The primi portions are on the small side, so be sure to treat yourself to one of the tempting appetizers. Homemade pastas are rich in flavor, particularly the malfatti -- a vegetable dumpling with ricotta and Parmesan. Entrées such as charred hanger steak tagliata with arugula truly hit the spot. Reservations not accepted. Subway: Q, 1, 2, 4, 5 to Atlantic Ave.; M, N, R, W to Pacific St.