Back in the day, Brooklyn’s food scene was synonymous with classic New York pizza and bagels. But now? The culinary landscape in Brooklyn is a rich blend of diverse cuisines, embracing a love for delectable, crave-worthy, and comforting food. Fueled by Brooklyn’s status as a melting pot within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the food scene here has evolved into a fascinating fusion of flavors. With a myriad of talented chefs, brewers, farmers, distillers, and food innovators calling Brooklyn home, the borough is experiencing a true culinary renaissance.
If you’re looking to explore the food scene in Brooklyn, get ready for a delightful dilemma. The variety of cuisines is dizzying, and the quality of options is nothing short of impressive. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pastrami on rye, the best ramen in town, lamb over rice that you’ll write home about, or hot dogs that will knock your socks off – Brooklyn has it all, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Don’t even get me started on the bakeries.
I decided to curate a day of indulgence in Brooklyn, celebrating not only the rich food culture but also supporting local businesses that define my borough. A single day with ten different stops, spanning from breakfast to late-night snacks (or supper), paying homage to iconic establishments that make Brooklyn’s food scene truly unique.
Here’s my journey across Brooklyn for a day of food:
Early Morning Beverage
SEY Coffee
18 Grattan St, Brooklyn, NY 11206
This contemporary micro roastery offers a delightful atmosphere filled with plants and a skylight, providing the perfect setting to enjoy their exceptional coffee and pastries. Embracing a tradition of hand-rolling, cutting, frying, and icing since its inception, SEY Coffee stands out for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Gotta Try It: While renowned for their expertly roasted coffee, don’t miss the Chai Latte – a surprising gem on the menu that adds a unique twist to your morning caffeine routine.
Helpful Tip: Weekends at SEY Coffee are laptop-free, encouraging patrons to disconnect and fully savor the micro-roasted goodness. Whether you prefer to order inside or utilize the drive-thru, SEY Coffee promises a flavorful start to your day in Brooklyn.
Breakfast
Highway Bagels
1923 Kings Hwy, Brooklyn, NY 11229
This straightforward and long-running bagel shop has been a staple in the community since 1951, making it one of the first and oldest bagel stores in Brooklyn that still thrives. In a world that has evolved over the years, Highway Bagels remains a testament to tradition, preserving the authentic New York kettle bagel’s quality and taste.
Gotta Try It: Indulge in the quintessential Brooklyn bite – a Bacon, Egg, Cheese & Ketchup on an everything bagel. It’s a flavor explosion that captures the essence of the city.
Helpful Tip: While this bagel shop opens early to cater to early risers, be prepared for a quick crowd. The popularity speaks for itself, and though there might be a wait, the authentic taste and quality are well worth it. Consider calling ahead or using services like UberEats to streamline your experience, but for many, the wait is a small price to pay for the genuine taste of a New York kettle bagel.
Lunchtime
Roll N Roaster
2901 Emmons Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235
This retro fast-food joint is a Brooklyn landmark renowned for its roast beef sandwiches and cheese fries, a tradition they’ve upheld since 1970. Roll N Roaster has been serving simply delicious food, earning its place as a beloved spot in the hearts of locals.
Gotta Try It: Dive into the classic flavors of Roll N Roaster with a must-try combination – Roll-n-Roaster Roast Beef N Cheez, cooked medium and Fries-n-Cheez. It’s a timeless duo that has stood the test of time.
Helpful Tip: While the menu boasts an array of tempting options, it’s advisable to skip the pizza. Stick to the classics, and you’ll be sure to enjoy the authentic and mouthwatering offerings that have made Roll N Roaster a Brooklyn favorite for decades.
Midday Snack
Nathan’s Famous
1310 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
The original Nathan’s hot dog stand, dating back to 1916, still graces its original site as of 2023. Beyond its historic charm, Nathan’s Famous is globally recognized for hosting the annual Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest since the early 1970s on the 4th of July. Specializing in hot dogs, this iconic spot continues to draw crowds with its classic offerings.
Gotta Try It: Opt for the timeless delight of the original hot dog topped with sautéed onions and yellow mustard, accompanied by a side of their renowned cheese fries. It’s a combination that captures the essence of Nathan’s Famous culinary legacy.
Helpful Tip: While the hot dogs are undeniably fantastic, don’t underestimate the allure of their fries – they’re truly that good. To make the most of your visit, consider going a little earlier or later than the lunchtime rush to avoid long lines. Keep in mind that the summer months tend to be busier, so plan accordingly for a seamless and delicious experience.
Dinner
Elegante Pizzeria
6922 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209
For over four decades, Elegante Pizzeria has been like a comforting culinary hug in the neighborhood, run by a warm and friendly family. This beloved neighborhood spot is celebrated for its commitment to delivering authentic and mouth watering pizzas.
Gotta Try It: Don’t miss out on the quintessential experience – savoring a pepperoni slice (or three) topped with a generous sprinkle of garlic salt and parmesan cheese. It’s a flavor combination that elevates the classic slice to new heights.
Helpful Tip: While there is some indoor seating available, be prepared for a bustling atmosphere that can get crowded quickly. For larger groups, anticipate sitting across a few tables to accommodate the cozy yet vibrant setting.
Dessert
Jean Danet Pastry Shop and Caffe
7526 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209
This warm cafe and bakery, a delightful haven for bread enthusiasts, churns out a delectable array of pastries, pies, cakes, and even brick oven pizzas. The moment you step inside, the irresistible aroma of eclairs, cannolis, cookies, cakes, and freshly baked bread envelops you, creating a sensory symphony that sparks immediate cravings.
Gotta Try It: Here’s a sweet secret – this is where my dad worked, and it’s home to the best cookies in town. Treat yourself to a few pignoli cookies; you deserve it. And if it happens to be Easter or Christmas, don’t miss the chance to grab some marzipan – the best in town and a seasonal delight that elevates your dessert experience.
Helpful Tip: While the temptations are endless, Jean Danet doesn’t offer much seating. Opting for a to-go option ensures you can savor these delectable treats at your own pace. So, treat yourself to a sweet escape, grab your favorite desserts, and let the flavors of Jean Danet Pastry Shop and Caffe transport you to a world of sugary bliss.
Late Night Snack
Junior’s Restaurant & Bakery
386 Flatbush Ave Ext, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Sat proudly at the corner of Flatbush and DeKalb avenues in Downtown Brooklyn, Junior’s Restaurant & Bakery has been a cherished diner under the Rosen family’s care since 1929. Renamed Junior’s in 1950, this iconic spot has been delighting patrons with its famous cheesecake and delectable treats ever since. The allure of Junior’s extends far beyond Brooklyn, with even a Kuwaiti prince known to have taken several Junior’s cheesecakes back with him.
Gotta Try It: Indulge in the heavenly sweetness of Junior’s by treating yourself to the apple crumb cheesecake. And to complete the experience, wash it all down with a classic egg cream, adding a touch of nostalgia to your late-night snack.
Helpful Tip: If you opt for cheesecake to-go, remember that these delights are best served at room temperature. If frozen, plan ahead and leave the cake overnight in the refrigerator, allowing it to defrost on the counter for 3 hours before serving.
