I live in Queens, an eclectic and multicultural melting pot of NYC that is an enclave for good food and cheaper rents. As a Queens resident, I am guilty of not always making the trek to my neighboring borough of Brooklyn. So, when I was tasked to create a guide to visiting Brooklyn for the now-defunct Mode Media, I was as much of a tourist to BK as the viewers I made the video for.
While those who live in Queens may have a friendly rivalry with those in Brooklyn (no we have the best ethnic cuisine!), the fact is that our respective boroughs are very different. Brooklyn is also multicultural but with a trendy edge that isn’t found in the oft residential Queens.
For me, my favorite neighborhoods in Brooklyn will always be Dumbo and Williamsburg. Dumbo is home to incredible food, cobblestone streets and enviable views of the Manhattan skyline, while Williamsburg is home to devastatingly cute boutiques, hipster dive bars, graffiti art and tucked away eateries.
Quick Tips for Visiting Brooklyn
In this new video from The Pin the Map Project, I take viewers through Brooklyn’s Dumbo and Williamsburg neighborhoods. Sharing places to eat, coffee shops, photo hot spots, and chocolatiers, here’s a quick list of places to visit in Brooklyn (plus some!).
Jacques Torres - Nestled in Dumbo, Jacques Torres is an iconic chocolatier that is found in NYC. When walking around Brooklyn (particularly during colder weather) I recommend visiting Jacques Torres for their delectable hot chocolates.
Luke’s Lobster under the Brooklyn Bridge - This has to be one of my favorite warmer weather traditions! In Dumbo, under the Brooklyn Bridge, is the popular Luke’s Lobster restaurant chain. Here, you can grab a lobster roll and soda and enjoy your snack under the bridge and with a view of the Manhattan skyline.
Travel by ferry! - The East River Ferry is a great way to travel up the coast of Brooklyn while also getting a stellar view of the NYC skyline. Perfect for hot days when you’ll want to avoid the ‘hot garbage’ smells of the subway system. the East River Ferry makes stops spanning from Manhattan’s battery park all the way up to Queens’ Long Island City.
Take a stroll down Bedford Avenue - If headed to Williamsburg, make sure to take a stroll down Bedford Avenue. Bedford Ave is a great introduction to Williamsburg with its many shops, restaurants and wall murals.
Washington & Water Street - Back in Dumbo, the corner of Washington and Water Street is THE place for a photo. The cobblestone street offers a perfectly framed view of the Manhattan bridge, which goes on to frame the Empire State Building.
Have you been to Brooklyn? Share your favorite spots below!
