Brooklyn Heights, with its stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and charming brownstones, boasts a vibrant culinary scene. This guide highlights 17 of the best restaurants in the area, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Whether you're craving a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a lively brunch, you'll find something to satisfy your cravings in this charming neighborhood. This list features restaurants known for their excellent food, ambiance, and overall dining experience. We'll explore everything from classic American fare to international cuisine, ensuring there's a perfect spot for every palate.
Upscale Dining Experiences in Brooklyn Heights
These restaurants offer a more refined dining experience, perfect for special occasions or a celebratory meal.
1. Cecconi's Dumbo: Italian Elegance with a View
Cecconi's Dumbo, while technically in Dumbo, is just a short walk from Brooklyn Heights and offers unparalleled views of the Manhattan Bridge and the city skyline. Their menu features classic Italian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Expect a sophisticated ambiance and impeccable service. Their pasta dishes are particularly noteworthy, highlighting the best of Italian culinary traditions.
2. River Café: Iconic Waterfront Dining
The River Café is a Brooklyn Heights institution, renowned for its breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and its refined American cuisine. It's a popular spot for special occasions and romantic dinners, offering an unforgettable dining experience. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings. Their seasonal menus highlight locally sourced ingredients.
3. Grimaldi's Pizzeria: Brooklyn's Pizza Legacy
While not strictly upscale, Grimaldi's holds a special place in Brooklyn's culinary history. Located under the Brooklyn Bridge, it's a classic coal-fired pizza joint that's been serving up delicious pies for decades. This is a must-try for any pizza lover visiting the area. Their thin crust and simple toppings are a testament to the beauty of simplicity.
Mid-Range Options: Delicious Food Without the Premium Price
These restaurants offer a great balance of quality food and affordability.
4. DeStefano's Steak House: Classic Steakhouse Fare
DeStefano's Steak House provides a classic steakhouse experience without the exorbitant price tag. They offer a wide selection of cuts, sides, and wines, creating a satisfying and reasonably priced meal. This is a great option for a celebratory dinner without breaking the bank. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through their menu.
5. Henry's End: Gastropub Delights
Henry's End is a gastropub offering a creative menu of elevated pub fare. Their dishes are both inventive and delicious, showcasing fresh ingredients and seasonal flavors. It's a perfect spot for a casual dinner or a night out with friends. Their extensive beer selection is another highlight.
6. Juliana's Pizza: Another Brooklyn Pizza Gem
Located near Grimaldi's, Juliana's offers another fantastic pizza experience. While sharing a similar style, Juliana's often boasts a slightly different crust and overall taste profile, making it worth experiencing both. They utilize the same coal-fired ovens, contributing to the distinctive taste.
7. Brooklyn Star: Southern Comfort Food
For those craving delicious Southern comfort food, Brooklyn Star is a must-visit. Their menu features Southern classics made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their fried chicken is particularly popular. It's a great option for a relaxed and satisfying meal.
Casual Eats and Quick Bites in Brooklyn Heights
These spots are perfect for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or grabbing something on the go.
8. Time Out Market New York: Diverse Food Hall Experience
Located in Dumbo (short walk from Brooklyn Heights), Time Out Market offers a diverse range of cuisines under one roof. It's a great place to explore different flavors and find something to suit everyone’s taste. This is a great option for groups with varying preferences.
9. Buttermilk Channel: Comfort Food Classics
Buttermilk Channel is a local favorite known for its delicious comfort food. Their menu features classics like fried chicken and waffles, along with seasonal specialties. This spot is excellent for a casual brunch or a laid-back dinner.
10. Shake Shack (Brooklyn Bridge Park): Iconic Burgers and Shakes
The Shake Shack location in Brooklyn Bridge Park offers stunning views along with their classic burgers and shakes. It's a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal with a view. It's a popular spot, so expect lines, especially during peak hours.
11. Pete's Tavern: Historic Brooklyn Gem
Pete's Tavern holds a special place in Brooklyn history. This historic spot provides a classic American tavern experience with good food, drinks, and a cozy atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for a casual meal or drinks with friends.
Exploring Diverse Cuisines in Brooklyn Heights
Brooklyn Heights offers a variety of international cuisines.
12. Tacoway Beach: Casual Taco Joint
Tacoway Beach offers delicious and affordable tacos in a casual setting. It's a popular spot for a quick and tasty meal. Their selection of tacos caters to various tastes.
13. Olea: Mediterranean Flavors
Olea offers fresh and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine. Their dishes are healthy and delicious, making it a great option for a light and healthy meal. Their use of fresh herbs is especially noticeable.
Sweet Treats and Coffee Breaks in Brooklyn Heights
No culinary exploration is complete without mentioning the sweet treats and coffee shops.
14. Brooklyn Heights Coffee: Locally Roasted Coffee
Brooklyn Heights Coffee is a local roastery and café offering excellent coffee and pastries. It's a great place to grab a coffee and pastry and relax in a cozy setting.
15. Superfine: Ice Cream Perfection
Superfine offers artisanal ice cream made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It's a perfect way to end a meal or enjoy a sweet treat on a warm day.
Unique and Noteworthy Experiences
These options offer unique dining experiences you won't easily find elsewhere.
16. Atrium Dumbo: Stunning Views and Creative Cuisine
Atrium Dumbo, while in Dumbo, provides an exceptional fine dining experience with stunning views. Its sophisticated menu blends contemporary techniques with fresh, local ingredients. It’s a unique setting for a memorable meal.
17. The Lighthouse: Waterfront Views and a Chic Atmosphere
The Lighthouse offers stunning waterfront views and a chic atmosphere. Its menu focuses on seafood and other fresh, seasonal ingredients, creating an unforgettable experience. It’s a great choice for a special occasion.
This guide provides a starting point for exploring the diverse and delicious restaurants in Brooklyn Heights. Remember to check restaurant websites for hours, menus, and reservation policies before your visit. Happy eating!
