Author:
Kameron
The Best Places in Brooklyn
I used to live in Brooklyn, and after spending three months in Estonia, I was glad to be back in my favorite city. I was excited to use dollars again, get free refills of coffee, and very excited to get to visit my favorite spots in Brooklyn that I learned to love while living there.
After the long journey from JFK to The New York Hostel, I dropped off my bags and decided to explore the surrounding area. I found the Swallow Cafe, just down the street from the hostel, and was very pleased with the ambiance of the cafe. Definitely try their cookies; I had the traditional chocolate chip, and it was a bite of heaven. Also, their variety of bagels are amazing, not to mention delicious!
Just like many of the people living in Brooklyn, I love vintage clothing, especially when they come at a cheap price. Beacon’s Closet buys, sells, and trades vintage and modern clothing and accessories. After browsing through Beacon's Closet, I went to my favorite cake joint. My absolute favorite is their banana pudding cake, complete with Nilla wafers enveloped in the pudding-based frosting. But don’t be deceived, although the slices look like they’re meant for two, don’t plan on sharing. You’ll want every single bite all to yourself. To walk off the calorie overload, I spent the rest of the afternoon walking around Prospect Park.
I started day two off at Cafe Pedlar, a very popular coffee joint on Court Street. Definitely try the ham and cheese croissant! Then I spent the morning taking in the views of Manhattan from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, and walked by the famous house of Truman Capote, writer of Breakfast at Tiffany's. I relaxed the rest of the afternoon away at my absolute favorite hookah lounge in Brooklyn, Your House Cafe. Not only are the hookah cheap, but they also are high quality, and the cafe serves a variety of Mediterranean dishes; my personal favorite is their lentil soup with pita. On my way back to the hostel, I stopped at The Community Bookstore. This store sheds a whole new light on organized chaos, and the owner is extremely helpful.
For my last day in Brooklyn, I wanted to pack in as many sights as possible, so after getting the delectable chicken and waffles at Pies-n-Thighs, I took off for the Brooklyn Flea Market in Fort Greene. After browsing the eclectic selection of hand made goods and vintage goodies, I also grabbed lunch there, including homemade soda. Then I headed for the Brooklyn Museum of Art, the Botanical Gardens, and the Prospect Park Zoo, all places that should not be missed. I ended the day on Court Street, at Frankies Spuntino, an Italian restaurant owned by two men who are both named Frankie. Their wine selection is fantastic, and the gnocchi marinara and fresh ricotta was definitely worth all fifteen bucks!
Beacon’s Closet
This is a great place to shop when you're on a budget. The clothing is always unique, and the staff is very helpful when it comes to fashion questions.
Prospect Park, Prospect Park Zoo
Enjoy the beauty of nature while walking through Prospect Park.
After reveling in nature, take a minute to enjoy the animal life in Brooklyn at the Prospect Park Zoo.
Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Walk or jog through the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, while taking in the fantastic view of Manhattan.
Brooklyn Flea Market (Fort Greene)
From vintage clothing to handmade soap or soda, the Brooklyn Flea Market caters to every need. Whether you're shopping or simply perusing the merchandise, there is always something interesting going on.
Brooklyn Museum of Art
The Brooklyn Museum is an art museum located in the New York City borough of Brooklyn. At 560,000 square feet, the museum holds New York City's second largest art collection with roughly 1.5 million works.
Frankies Spuntino
A unique Italian restaurant owned by chefs Frank Falcinelli and Frank Castronovo. Locally owned, and apparently a favorite of Jay-Z, this Italian restaurant is also in Cobble Hill, and has one fantastic wine list!
