NYC Favorites: Brooklyn Restaurants

Photo Source: 

http://www.screanews.us/NewYork/BrooklynOld.htm

For most Manhattan residents, a trip to Brooklyn is as painful as TSA security at the airport behind a large family with tons of kids. But I always enjoyed the atmosphere (and the lower prices) of Brooklyn. Most of the places listed below are still on my must see list. However, they are all highly recommended:

1. Pies n' Thighs (Williamsburg).

  Country style food with great service. I dare you to visit without trying the mac & cheese.

2. Ovenly (Greenpoint).

  Cute little coffee shop with great desserts. 

3. Lighthouse (Williamsburg).

  Modern bar with awesome snacks and plates. Known for a wide variety of oysters.

4. Aska (Williamsburg).  

Don't get scared off by the style of this restaurant - Scandinavian  It is fresh food, inventive preparation and an all around great experience.

5. Pok Pok NY (Columbia Street Waterfront District).  

Authentic (and I mean legit authentic) Thai food in Brooklyn. Plus, Anthony Bourdain tested and approved. Some reservations on the price and size of the restaurant - but its NYC - too be expected.

6. Blanca (East Williamsburg).  

This place is a real splurge and requires some planning - but if you consider yourself an advanced foodie, Blanca is a must see. Here you will experience an extensive tasting menu with wine pairings (likely to last 3 hours) with only 11 other patrons. I'll admit - reservations are tough to come by and the experience isn't cheap - but worth it for any advanced foodie out there.

7. Fisherman's Dawta (Downtown Brooklyn).  

One winter day in the city, I was craving jerk chicken. Like I wish I could go back to Jamaica tomorrow craving. If that ever happens to you, FD is the place to go. Many list this place as one of the best in the city.

8. Radegast Hall and Biergarten (Williamsburg).

  If you ever want to feel like you have teleported to Bavaria for a night, Radegast is a great spot. The space has a rustic, hunting lodge feel. Plus, they serve traditional German beers and have an excellent outdoor space for summer. 

9. Gywnnett St (Williamsburg).

  Modern American food - that looks super tasty. Seriously, I just looked at the menu online and I had to fight back the urge to make a reservation! I would recommend the pork belly and scallops. Plus, the make fabulous in-house drinks.

10. Rucola.

  Italian. Romantic. Delicious. Classic Italian options - be sure to save room for dessert! They have a blueberry almond cake... need I say more?!

There are probably hundreds of other must see spots opening in Brooklyn every day. I suggest you go there ASAP. If you are lucky, you may even see Jay-Z on

R train

- though I wouldn't hold my breathe.

Cheers!