Most recently, Brooklyn has been a place full of places to discover from a culinary standpoint for me. Living only in Manhattan for 10 years, I never really ventured to Brooklyn until now; I’ve been missing out. Recently there to check out apartments, ended up being a long weekend full of great drinks and even better food. Below are my recommendations for a foodie’s weekends guide to Brooklyn, NY.
Lucali's (Carroll Gardens)
It’s a must and a Brooklyn staple. Lucali’s is a small, dim lit pizza joint serving up only authentic pizza and calzones. They do 2 things and they do them undoubtedly to perfection. No reservations are accepted, it is cash only and BYOB. Their doors open at 4pm to put your name on the waitlist, people will sometimes start lining up at 3 to get an early seating. Get there when the doors open, put your name on the list then go grab a drink or app at the many places around Carroll Gardens while you wait for your table.
Di an Di (Greenpoint)
Vietnamese restaurant that is sure to please. It is one of those restaurants that if you’re not familiar with the cuisine, let the waiter run the show. Don’t skip over the grilled rice paper options, it is served with the most gorgeous scissors for cutting it.
Lilia (Williamsburg)
Fantastic homemade pasta spot with a very simple and clean aesthetic. It’s a rather large spot with a ton of outdoor seating, but small if you’re visiting in the colder months. Can be a little difficult to get in with reservations (make them ahead of time), but accessible to squeeze in if you go when it opens at 4pm. Sometimes people are lined up as well, we got there at 4:15 and were able to get a seat inside. Pastas are fresh, seafood is fresh, and GET the gelato with olive oil. You won’t want to eat gelato any other way.
Rule of Thirds (Greenpoint)
Japanese eclectic comfort food serving major vibes. During the summer you can sit on their patio or reserve a bungalow with a larger group. Their Karaage, Butterbean Kasujiru, and crispy rice keep me going back; queue mouthwatering.
Frankie's (Carroll Gardens)
Here is what you need to know about Frankie’s. They basically own a block in Carroll Gardens giving diners three options to chose from. Frankie’s 457 is their more upscale restaurant with a fantastic outdoor patio. Next door is their grab and go pizza slice shop. Then next to that, is their wine bar. I mean, it’s all good. If you have time to sit down, don’t miss the homemade pasta at Frankie’s 457 – the gnocchi are heavenly.
Oxomoco (Greenpoint)
Authentic Mexican tacos with a spin – of course. Great for dinner and brunch, Oxomoco has a menu where you want to try one of everything; we did. The tacos were hands down the winners while sipping on their frozen drinks.
Heading to NYC? Check out my foodie’s weekend to NYC here!