Manhattan, with its dazzling Broadway lights, the iconic Empire State Building, and the verdant expanse of Central Park, often holds the gaze of first-time visitors to New York City. However, seasoned New Yorkers understand that culinary adventures often lie just a bridge away, specifically in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn. Here, a diverse and dynamic food scene awaits, offering a gastronomic experience that rivals, and in many ways surpasses, its more famous neighbor.
Whether your craving is for a hearty breakfast to kickstart the day, a quick and satisfying lunch, an elegant dinner, or the quintessential New York City experience of brunch, Brooklyn presents an array of choices to satisfy every palate and budget. From unpretentious yet reliably delicious pizza parlors to sophisticated, award-winning Michelin-starred establishments offering exquisite tasting menus, the borough is a culinary tapestry woven with diverse flavors and traditions. The influence of Italian cuisine is undeniable, with numerous restaurants serving classic dishes passed down through generations. Simultaneously, a wave of innovative chefs specializing in Uyghur, French, Ethiopian, and Thai culinary arts are emerging, further enriching The Best Restaurants in Brooklyn and solidifying its position as a premier destination for food enthusiasts.
Brooklyn has steadily grown as a popular destination for tourists, attracting visitors with its unique blend of history, culture, and artistic expression. The borough boasts an impressive array of attractions and activities, from exploring the trendy boutiques of Williamsburg to immersing oneself in the artistic atmosphere of Bushwick. To fully appreciate all that Brooklyn has to offer, a satisfying meal is essential to fuel your adventures. With this in mind, it is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, as the most sought-after restaurants tend to book up quickly, a testament to their popularity and quality. Let’s explore some of The Best Restaurants in Brooklyn, each offering a distinct and memorable dining experience.
al di la Trattoria
For a truly authentic Brooklyn experience, where you can dine alongside local residents and feel like a part of the community, venture to Park Slope and discover al di la Trattoria. This beloved eatery is celebrated for its delectable Northern Italian cuisine, prepared with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, reminiscent of a traditional Italian family trattoria.
Recognized consistently by the Michelin Guide, al di la Trattoria presents a menu that evolves with the seasons, ensuring the use of the highest quality, seasonal produce. While the specific dishes may change, certain staples are frequently featured, including the creamy mushroom polenta, a comforting and flavorful dish that is a true crowd-pleaser. The ricotta ravioli, light and delicate, are another popular choice. For a more adventurous palate, the spaghetti neri alla chitarra, homemade black spaghetti with octopus confit, basil, and chili peppers, offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Another must-try is the braised rabbit, a tender and succulent dish that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to traditional Italian cooking techniques. To complete your culinary journey, be sure to save room for dessert, with tempting options such as panna cotta, affogato, pear and chocolate cake, or homemade gelato.
- Address: 248 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, USA
- Phone: +1 718-783-4565
- Neighborhood: Park Slope
Buttermilk Channel
After a day of exploring the charming neighborhoods of Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens, revitalize yourself with the satisfying and comforting cuisine of Buttermilk Channel. This restaurant is known for its innovative takes on classic American dishes, prepared with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Buttermilk Channel’s signature dish, the buttermilk fried chicken, is a must-try. Served with cheddar waffles and cabbage slaw, it is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors and satisfying textures. The duck meatloaf, another popular choice, is served with corn pudding, pole beans, shallots, and duck jus, creating a rich and flavorful meal. For vegetarians, the homemade mushroom-barley veggie burgers offer a hearty and delicious alternative. Seafood lovers will appreciate the East Coast Oysters, available iced, roasted, or barbecued, as well as the mussels and baby back ribs. With such a diverse menu, Buttermilk Channel truly has something to please every diner.
Brunch at Buttermilk Channel is a highly anticipated event on weekends, drawing crowds eager to indulge in the restaurant’s creative brunch offerings. The menu includes an assortment of scrambles, pecan pie French toast, and short rib hash, as well as classic brunch cocktails like Bloody Marys, salty dogs, Bellinis, and mimosas.
- Address: 524 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231-4014, USA
- Phone: +1 718-852-8490
- Neighborhood: Carroll Gardens
The Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare
For an unparalleled fine dining experience, The Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare stands out as a culinary destination of exceptional quality. This is the only restaurant on this list to have received three Michelin stars, a testament to its innovative cuisine, impeccable service, and overall dining experience. While the cost is significant, the experience is truly unforgettable.
With a seating capacity of just 18 diners, The Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare offers an intimate and exclusive dining experience. Securing a reservation can be challenging, requiring a non-refundable deposit of $200 per person. However, the reward is an extraordinary prix-fixe dinner consisting of 18-20 small plate courses, priced at $430 per person including tax (gratuity is extra). The tasting menu changes frequently, reflecting the seasons and the chef’s creativity. Typically, the menu features a variety of fish and shellfish dishes, as well as several meat-based creations and a selection of exquisite desserts. This restaurant elevates The Best Restaurants in Brooklyn to a whole new level.
- Address: Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA
- Neighborhood: Downtown Brooklyn
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
Located near Pier 1 in Brooklyn Bridge Park, and a short walk from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria is a true institution, celebrated for its coal-fired, brick-oven pizzas. The original Grimaldi’s opened in DUMBO in 1990, and has been serving the same delicious 12, 16, and 18-inch pizzas ever since. The pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and dough crafted using a secret family recipe.
Despite the often-lengthy queues outside, don’t be deterred. Grimaldi’s does not accept reservations, so seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. However, the line tends to move faster than expected. Arriving just before opening on weekends or visiting during off-peak hours during the week can help minimize your wait time.
- Address: 1 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
- Phone: +1 718-858-4300
- Neighborhood: DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass)
Peter Luger Steak House
Peter Luger Steak House, a true landmark and one of Brooklyn’s most cherished old-school eateries, has been attracting steak lovers to its location near the Williamsburg Bridge since 1887. The restaurant is renowned for its top-quality USDA prime beef cuts, all dry-aged in-house.
In addition to the famous porterhouse steaks, the menu includes lamb chops, grilled Atlantic salmon, and prime beef rib steaks. Luger’s fried potatoes, seasoned with German spices, are a must-try side dish. While the restaurant is best known for its porterhouse steaks, the Luger Burger, available only at lunch, offers a more affordable way to experience this iconic establishment. This is a definite add to your list of The Best Restaurants in Brooklyn.
- Address: 178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA
- Phone: +1 718-387-7400
- Neighborhood: Williamsburg
The River Café
The Michelin-starred River Café is one of New York City’s most romantic restaurants, known for its exquisite cuisine, live piano music (performed by jazz pianist Dom Salvador for over 40 years), and breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.
First opened in 1977, The River Café offers a refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and classic techniques. The menu features dishes such as Irish Point Oysters, sautéed duck foie gras, Wagyu steak tartare, and caviar from Germany as starters. Main courses include lobster, king salmon, duck, lamb, beef, and black sea bass. Due to the upscale atmosphere, a dress code is enforced; men are required to wear collared shirts and jackets for dinner, and ties are preferred. Sandals are not permitted.
- Address: 1 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201-1343, USA
- Phone: +1 718-522-5200
- Neighborhood: DUMBO
Roberta’s
With locations in Bushwick and South Williamsburg, Roberta’s is one of the city’s best artisanal pizza joints, known for its wood-fired pies and exceptional brunch. The scrambled eggs, made with kale, pecorino, and sunflower spelt, are a standout brunch dish, as are the bacon, egg, and cheese croissants.
In addition to the pizzas, Roberta’s offers a variety of appetizers, such as duck prosciutto and cheese plates, and desserts, including sticky bun ice cream sandwiches. While the margherita pizza is a classic choice, the menu also features more adventurous options, such as the Bee Sting, made with tomato, mozzarella, soppresata, chili, basil, and honey.
- Address: 6 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11249, USA
- Phone: +1 718-278-2400
- Neighborhood: Bushwick and South Williamsburg
Petite Crevette
Located in the Columbia Street Waterfront District, Petite Crevette is a charming Brooklyn bistro that has been serving up fresh seafood dishes since 2008 (its predecessor, La Bouillabaisse, opened nearby in 1993).
The menu includes shrimp Po’ Boys, tuna niçoise, and mustard-encrusted salmon, as well as cioppino bowls (made with lobster, shrimp, mussels, and scallops), mussels Provençal, and scallops Dijon. To finish your meal, choose from a tart-of-the-day, warm chocolate tart, or award-winning key lime pie.
- Address: 144 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11231-2908, USA
- Phone: +1 718-855-2632
- Neighborhood: Columbia Street Waterfront District
Insa
Insa offers a unique dining experience, combining delicious and creative Korean BBQ with a side of karaoke. For a memorable night out, you can rent a large room for up to 16 people ($180 per hour) or a small room for up to eight people ($80 per hour), with a one-hour minimum and a three-hour maximum per group.
The menu features specials like lemon mochi cake and galbi tang (poached short ribs in beef broth), as well as dumplings, Bulgogi beef, Bibimbap, and kimchi fried rice. To complement your meal, Insa offers a variety of Soju, Sake, wine, beer, and cocktails.
- Address: 328 Douglass St, Brooklyn, NY 11217-3114, USA
- Phone: +1 718-855-2620
- Neighborhood: Gowanus
Hometown Barbecue
Hometown Barbecue, with locations in Red Hook and Industry City, is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings for smoked meats, ribs, tacos, and wood-fired marinated chicken.
The menu includes brisket, pulled pork, homemade sausage, lamb banh mi, and thick-slab pastrami bacon. For a spicy kick, try the Vietnamese hot wings. Be sure to save room for banana cream pudding for dessert. It’s a worthy addition to your quest for The Best Restaurants in Brooklyn.
- Address: 454 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA
- Phone: +1 347-294-4644
- Neighborhood: Red Hook and Industry City
Maison Yaki
Maison Yaki, a self-described French yakitori restaurant, offers an interesting blend of cultural and culinary influences.
The menu features dishes such as duck rillettes with wasabi, shishito peppers in Béarnaise sauce, and beef short ribs with Bordelaise sauce. French favorites like haricot vert (green beans), endive salad, and pomme frites are also served, as are cauliflower okonomiyaki and crunchy fried chicken. Complement your meal with French wine or cocktails like the sake negroni or cherry blossom Manhattan. For a unique experience, play a game of pétanque in the backyard patio area before or after your meal.
- Address: 626 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA
- Phone: +1 718-552-2609
- Neighborhood: Prospect Heights
Di Fara Pizza
Di Fara Pizza, opened in 1965, is a Brooklyn institution known for its traditional-style pizzas. Choose from regular or square slices, cheese calzones (at the Williamsburg location only), or a variety of pizza pies that are sure to have you coming back for more.
- Address: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230-3702, USA
- Phone: +1 718-258-1367
- Neighborhood: Williamsburg and Midwood
Bunna Café
If you enjoy traditional Ethiopian food served with Injera (a sourdough-like flatbread), Bunna Café is a must-visit.
The menu is entirely plant-based and made with zesty Ethiopian spices. Try the lentil sambusa, triangular pastries filled with lentils and a peppery mix, and save room for baklava for dessert. Weekend brunch offers sweet and savory dishes like vegan scrambles, fava beans, and sweet plantains.
- Address: 1084 Flushing Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA
- Phone: +1 347-295-2227
- Neighborhood: Bushwick
Tong
Tong offers a unique Thai tapas experience, with small plates called Kub Klaem designed to be enjoyed with your favorite beer, whiskey, or cocktail.
Sample small bites like goi neu (spicy beef tartare with toasted rice) or gai tod Hat Yai (crunchy fried chicken with shallots), a traditional dish of Hat Yai, a city located along Thailand’s border with Malaysia. Tom yum soup and wok-centric favorites like pad see ew can also be found on the menu.
- Address: 321 Starr St, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA
- Phone: +1 718-366-0586
- Neighborhood: Bushwick
Kashkar Café
Located in Brighton Beach, Kashkar Café serves traditional Uyghur-style Halal kebabs, made with lamb, chicken, ground beef, liver, or veal, as well as several fish-based dishes made with salmon, sea bass, or trout.
Try the dopanji (fried chicken with sweet peppers, carrots, and potatoes), somman (small, handmade dumplings), and naryun (dough with boiled jerk meat) to really get a taste of this tasty, under-the-radar cuisine.
- Address: 1141 Brighton Beach Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235, USA
- Phone: +1 718-743-3832
- Neighborhood: Brighton Beach
Peaches HotHouse
Get your fix for Southern-style comfort food at Peaches HotHouse, which has two outposts in Bed Stuy and Fort Greene (sister restaurants Peaches Kitchen & Bar and Peaches Shrimp & Crab can also be found nearby in Bed Stuy and Clinton Hill).
Whichever location you choose, you’ll be treated to down-home favorites like fried green tomatoes, fried catfish, fried chicken, and what Peaches calls, "the best chicken sandwich anywhere." If you’re looking for pulled pork, smoked brisket sandwiches, and St. Louis spare ribs, head to the Fort Greene restaurant.
- Neighborhood: Bed Stuy, Fort Greene, and Clinton Hill
Exploring these diverse restaurants will undoubtedly lead you to discover your own favorites, solidifying The Best Restaurants in Brooklyn as a culinary haven worth exploring.
