A Food & Drink Tour Of Crown Heights, Brooklyn
21 photos
<p>Creeping gentrification has found a new neighborhood: With close proximity to Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Museum, and numerous subway lines, it's no surprise that Brooklyn's Crown Heights is experiencing something of a renaissance. The <a href="http://gothamist.com/2011/04/06/video_crown_heights_locals_react_to.php">changing landscape</a> along commercial thoroughfares like Franklin Avenue has given rise to a new set of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops sure to suit any palate.<br/><br/>Previously: Food and Drink tours of <a href="http://gothamist.com/2012/03/28/adam_kubans_food_drink_tour_of_asto.php#photo-1">Astoria</a>, <a href="http://gothamist.com/2012/01/31/a_food_wine_tour_of_south_park_slop.php#photo-1">South Slope</a>, <a href="http://gothamist.com/2012/03/01/get_cultured_stuffed_and_loaded_on.php#photo-1">the LES</a>, and <a href="http://gothamist.com/2011/12/07/bed-stuy_food_tour.php#photo-1">Bed-Stuy</a>.<br/><br/></p>
<u><strong>The Candy Rush</strong></u><br/><br/>For every child (or child-at-heart), The Candy Rush is going to be your jam. This old-fashioned candy store stocks twizzlers and all-day suckers aplenty. Also serving an assortment of Blue Marble ice cream flavors, waffles, crepes, and iced coffee, The Candy Rush is sure to be packed all summer long.<br/><br/> Pro tip: Stop by for movie nights in the back garden!<br/><br/> <img alt="CHcandy2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcandy2.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcandy3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcandy3.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcandy4.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcandy4.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcandy5.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcandy5.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcandy6.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcandy6.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcandy7.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcandy7.jpg" width="640"/><a href="http://www.thecandyrushnyc.com/">The Candy Rush</a><br/>733 Franklin Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.676.2028<br/>
<u><strong>Barboncino</strong></u><br/><br/>Perhaps the perfect example that Crown Heights really is changing for the better, Barboncino's beautiful space and beautiful servers are rivaled only by their beautiful pizza. If you're looking to impress a date, but not necessarily inclined to shell out the big bucks, Barboncino's menu and presentation are stellar. The ambience sets the gold standard for Crown Heights, with a maze of nooks on different levels. Wood-fired pizzas are crisp and bubbling. Try artichoke and smoked pancetta or cremini and fennel sausage.<br/><br/>Pro Tip: The cheese slate, while on the pricey side, is perfectly balanced with wood-fired garlic bread.<br/><br/><form class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" mt:asset-id="704588" style="display: inline;"> <img alt="" class="image-none" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHbarboncino2.jpg" width="640"/> </form><form class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" mt:asset-id="704589" style="display: inline;"> <img alt="" class="image-none" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHbarboncino3.jpg" width="640"/> </form><form class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" mt:asset-id="704590" style="display: inline;"> <img alt="" class="image-none" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHbarboncino4.jpg" width="640"/> </form><form class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" mt:asset-id="704591" style="display: inline;"> <img alt="" class="image-none" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHbarboncino5.jpg" width="640"/> </form><form class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" mt:asset-id="704592" style="display: inline;"> <img alt="" class="image-none" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHbarboncino6.jpg" width="640"/> </form><a href="http://barboncinopizza.com/Blank.html">Barboncino</a><br/>781 Franklin Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.483.8834<br/>
<u><strong>Thirstbarà vin</strong></u><br/><br/>Behind an unassuming exterior on an offbeat block, sits Thirstbarà vin. Once inside, guests are treated to a surprise that satisfies the senses. The French-inspired menu is simple and changes daily, sourced from local, organic vendors. Try the rabbit rillette with cornichons.<br/><br/>Pro Tip: Owned by the same couple responsible for <a href="http://thirstmerchants.com/">Thirst Wine Merchants</a> in Fort Greene, only organic and biodynamic wines will do at Thirstbarà vin.<br/><br/><img alt="CHthirst3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHthirst3.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHthirst2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHthirst2.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHthirst4.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHthirst4.jpg" width="640"/><a href="http://thirstbar.blogspot.com/">Thirstbarà vin</a><br/>629 Classon Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.857.9227<br/>
<u><strong>Super Wings NY</strong></u><br/><br/>Hands down some of the best chicken wings in New York. You can't go wrong no matter which flavor you choose: merry mango, ginger buff, pineapple jerk, Trini tamarind. Take your pick, you are in for a treat. Extra friendly staff and an owner with a passion for originality make this little chicken wing place a favorite for take-out.<br/><br/> Pro Tip: Bring an extra 25 cents and spring for a second container of lava sauce.<br/><br/><img alt="CHsuperwings2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHsuperwings2.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHsuperwings3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHsuperwings3.jpg" width="640"/><a href="http://superwingsny.net/">Super Wings NY</a><br/>1218 Union St<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11225<br/>718.467.8737<br/>
<u><strong>Dutch Boy Burger</strong></u><br/><br/>Whether it's a veggie, turkey, or beef burger you're looking to sink your teeth into, Dutch Boy will do you right. Top it off with anything from thick cut bacon to extra pickles to a fried egg. Onion rings are thick and crispy. Brunch served on Saturday and Sunday.<br/><br/>Pro Tip: Watch out for daily specials like the jerk chicken and mango empanada. And save room for a root beer (or beer beer) float! Moo Thunder Stout and vanilla ice cream? Yes, please.<br/><br/> <img alt="CHdutchboy2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHdutchboy2.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHdutchboy3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHdutchboy3.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="Chdutchboy4.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/Chdutchboy4.jpg" width="640"/><a href="http://www.dutchboyburger.com/">Dutch Boy Burger</a><br/>766 Franklin Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.230.0293<br/>
<u><strong>Franklin Park </strong></u><br/><br/>One of the first Crown Heights establishments aimed at the new crowd of 20-somethings, Franklin Park still kills it with a happy hour that can't be beat. Monday through Friday, $3 drafts and $4 well drinks til 5:00 p.m. ($4 and $5 respectively from 5-7:00 p.m.).<br/><br/> Pro Tip: It's connected to Dutch Boy Burger, and yes, you can dine al fresco in the enormous beer garden.<br/><br/><img alt="CHfranklin2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHfranklin2.jpg" width="640"/><a href="http://franklinparkbrooklyn.com/">Franklin Park</a><br/>618 St John's Pl<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.975.0196<br/>
<u><strong>Glass Shop</strong></u><br/><br/>The Glass Shop on Classon Avenue has long been a neighborhood favorite. With bike memorabilia lining the walls, friendly baristas whip up strong cups of coffee and hand-squeeze fresh orange juice. Croissants are flakey and buttery. Enjoy and excellent flat white (an Australia espresso drink not unlike a latte) in the sun-filled shop.<br/><br/>Pro Tip: The olive oil cake sells out quickly and trust us... you want a slice.<br/><br/><img alt="CHglass2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHglass2.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHglass3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHglass3.jpg" width="640"/>The Glass Shop<br/>766 Classon Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238 <br/>
<u><strong>Abigail Café and Wine Bar</strong></u><br/><br/>Like <a href="http://friends.wikia.com/wiki/Central_Perk">Central Perk</a> with wine (and, thankfully, no David Schwimmer), Abigail Café is the perfect spot to unwind with friends and a drink on a big comfy couch. Order wine by the bottle or glass. Free wi-fi and plenty of tables make it an idyllic spot to work.<br/><br/>Pro Tip: For brunch, try the baked eggs.<br/><br/> <form class="mt-enclosure mt-enclosure-image" mt:asset-id="704560" style="display: inline;"> <img alt="CHabigail2.jpg" class="image-none" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/attachments/JamesThilman/CHabigail2.jpg" width="640"/> </form><a href="http://abigailbrooklyn.com/">Abigail Café and Wine Bar</a><br/>807 Classon Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.399.3200<br/>
<u><strong>The Islands</strong></u><br/><br/>It's no wonder that The Islands is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Some of the best jerk chicken in town can be had for just $12 at this tiny West Indian spot on Washington Avenue. Known for their calypso shrimp and oxtail, the fare is authentic and the portions are enormous. Curried goat is spicy and delicious. The tiny dining room, lofted above the kitchen, adds to the no frills charm of this Caribbean Crown Heights standby.<br/><br/> Pro Tip: A "large" is almost enough to split between two hungry diners.<br/><br/> The Islands<br/>803 Washington Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.398.3575<br/>
<u><strong>The Pulp & The Bean</strong></u><br/><br/>Honestly, this is the only place in the immediate area to get a good bagel. And we're picky about our bagels. The shop offers a myriad of shmears, from strawberry to scallion, or try a a delightful pastry with your cuppa. The Pulp & The Bean's tiny storefront doesn't have much room to sit and mingle, but it's the perfect place to pick up that coffee to-go before hopping on the subway at Franklin Avenue.<br/><br/>Pro Tip: Opens near the crack of dawn for you early-risers.<br/><br/> <img alt="Chpulp2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/Chpulp2.jpg" width="640"/>The Pulp & The Bean<br/>809 Franklin Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>347.425.8642<br/>
<u><strong>Chavela's</strong></u><br/><br/>After years on Classon Avenue, Chavela's moved over to the Franklin Avenue strip after months of renovation. It was worth it. No detail was overlooked in the new space and the menu isn't lacking either. They must be doing something rightâChavela's is always hopping!<br/><br/> Aurelia's Mole is a favorite with chicken that falls off the bone, slathered in a sweetly spicey, earthy chocolate mole. Margaritas on tap are just as margaritas should be: boozy, tart, and, at $8, reasonably priced.<br/><br/> Pro Tip: Arrive early for brunch. There's a line down the block before they even open the doors on Sunday.<br/><img alt="CHchavelas2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHchavelas2.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHchavelas3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHchavelas3.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHchavelas4.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHchavelas4.jpg" width="640"/><a href="http://chavelasnyc.com/">Chavela's</a><br/> 736 Franklin Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.622.3100<br/>
<u><strong>The Crown Inn</strong></u><br/><br/>Wood-paneled walls, talented bartenders, and the biggest bar on Franklin Avenue make the Crown Inn a no-brainer. For spring, treat yourself to a refreshing cocktail like the Rose-Colored Glasses: vodka, elder flower liqueur, grapefruit juice, lime, lemon, and sparkling wine. Plenty of quality beers on tap.<br/><br/>Pro Tip: Leave the office early on Friday. They're open at 3:00 p.m.<br/><br/> <img alt="CHcrowninn2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcrowninn2.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcrowninn3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcrowninn3.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcrowninn4.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcrowninn4.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcrowninn5.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcrowninn5.jpg" width="640"/><a href="www.thecrowninnbrooklyn.com">The Crown Inn</a><br/>724 Franklin Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>
<u><strong>Breukelen Coffee House</strong></u><br/><br/>Serving Stumptown coffee, this shop offers free wi-fi to folks in the neighborhood working on their novels about working in coffeeshops serving Stumptown. On warm days, folks congregate on the bench out front.<br/><br/>Pro tip: They make their hot chocolate with Nutella. WHAT?!<br/><br/><img alt="CHbreukelen2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHbreukelen2.jpg" width="640"/><a href="http://breukelencoffeehouse.com/">Breukelen Coffee House</a><br/>764A Franklin Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.789.7070<br/>
<u><strong>Sweet Basil</strong></u><br/><br/>Don't let the oft-empty dining room fool you, this Thai restaurant is a take-out favorite. Curries with tofu, chicken, or shrimp are spicy and complex.<br/><br/>Pro Tip: Delivery is always hot and crispy. Full menu is veggie-friendly.<br/><br/> <img alt="CHsweetbasil1.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHsweetbasil1.jpg" width="640"/>Sweet Basil<br/>709 Franklin Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.399.3388<br/>
<u><strong>Bar Corvo</strong></u><br/><br/>The folks from Park Slope's <a href="http://www.aldilatrattoria.com/">al di là </a> have (just barely) crossed the border into Crown Heights, opening a beautiful new space with pretty cocktails and mouthwatering entrées.<br/><br/> Pro Tip: Garden coming soon!<br/><br/> <img alt="CHcorvo3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcorvo3.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcorvo4.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcorvo4.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcorvo5.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcorvo5.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHcorvo6.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHcorvo6.jpg" width="640"/><a href="http://www.barcorvo.com/">Bar Corvo</a><br/>791 Washington Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.230.0940<br/>
<u><strong>Bombay Masala</strong></u><br/><br/>Dine-in or take-out at this classic Indian restaurantâa local favorite! Traditional Indian music fills the colorful space while the best of Bollywood plays on a big screen on the back wall. Start with coconut samoosas and shrimp pakora. Main dishesâfrom lamb biriyani to an above average chicken tikka masalaâare tender and flavorful. For the budget minded, the Bombay Dinner Special is a great option. $15.95 gets you a choice of an appetizer, soup, main dish from curry specialties, bread, and dessert firni.<br/><br/> Pro tip: Dishes can be on the milder side, so be sure to ask for that extra kick if you like it spicy.<br/><br/> <a href="http://www.bombaymasalabrooklyn.com/">Bombay Masala</a><br/>678 Franklin Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.230.7640<br/>
<u><strong>Güeros</strong></u><br/><br/>Güeros knocks it out of the park. Al pastor, brisket, and flash-fried shrimp tacos paired with horchata will have you asking for more by the time you're done. So, order the unusual and not-so-Mexican fried chicken taco, perfectly seasoned and prepared with jalapeño buttermilk and pico de gallo.<br/><br/> Pro Tip: Breakfast tacos are the perfect cure for that Sunday morning hangover. Set your sights on a migas taco with eggs, fried tortilla strips, tomatoes, jalapeños, and cheddar. And, hey, while you're there, you might as well get a margarita on the rocks.<br/><br/> <img alt="CHgueros2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHgueros2.jpg" width="640"/><a href="http://guerosbrooklyn.com/About_Us.html">Güeros</a><br/>605 Prospect Pl<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.230.4941<br/>
<u><strong>NoBar</strong></u><br/><br/>Owner and sometimes-bartender Anthony Mackie (of <em>Hurt Locker</em> fame) opened NoBar last year as a casual joint to shoot some pool. Serving only American beers, friendly bartenders also make a mean cocktail. The Mackie is refreshingly sweet with citrus rum, lime, and white cranberry juice. Served up, the Tie Breaker blends bourbon with some unusual ingredients like blackberries, basil, lemon, aperol, and a few drops of balsamic vinegarâaromatic and tasty.<br/><br/>Pro Tip: Great spot to watch the game.<br/><br/><img alt="CHnobar1.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHnobar1.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHnobar3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHnobar3.jpg" width="640"/>NoBar<br/>608 Nostrand Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11216<br/>
<u><strong>Royal Bakery</strong></u><br/><br/>Royal Bakery is the place for Trini baked goods in Crown Heights. Coconut rolls, milk biscuits, current rollsâeach one is better than the last. The staff is helpful and enthusiastic, so for those unfamiliar with Caribbean baking, don't hesitate to stop by and ask questions.<br/><br/>Pro Tip: If you're looking to make a meal out of your trip to this venerable bakery, have chicken roti before a giant slice of pound cake.<br/><br/> <img alt="CHroyal2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHroyal2.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHroyal3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHroyal3.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHroyal4.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHroyal4.jpg" width="640"/>Royal Bakery<br/>618 Nostrand Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11216<br/>718.604.0200<br/>
<u><strong>Pete Zaaz</strong></u><br/><br/>Two guys from Pulino's and No. 7 came together to create <a href="http://gothamist.com/2012/01/17/no_7_and_pulinos_alums_deliver_craz.php">Pete Zaaz</a>, a toppings-driven pizza parlor with a taste for the eccentric. Purple potato pizza is a must have. Served with crème fraîche, white cheddar, bacon, and green onion it's no wonder they fly out of the oven and into your stomach. A newly opened back patio is an oasis surrounded by plantings and outfitted with a giant screen for movie nights. A large space at the back is reserved for the garden which supplies the restaurant with fresh herbs.<br/><br/> Pro Tip: The kimchi rolls in the "Not Pizza" section will knock your socks off.<br/> <br/><img alt="CHzaaz2.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHzaaz2.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHzaaz3.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHzaaz3.jpg" width="640"/><img alt="CHzaaz4.jpg" height="427" src="http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/04/CHzaaz4.jpg" width="640"/><a href="http://petezaaz.com/">Pete Zaaz</a><br/>766 Classon Ave<br/>Brooklyn, NY 11238<br/>718.230.9229<br/>