Brooklyn

So, after living in Brooklyn for a while, I have decided that I am now qualified to recommend the best restaurants, bars and activities. Most places are centered in and around our neighborhood, but I've tried to cover most of my favorite borough. Hopefully this post will keep getting updated with more great places!

Restaurants

Bedouin Tent- Oh, man. I. love. this. place. Seriously, their falafel is addictive and a falafel sandwich will only set you back $4. They make all of their own pita, and it is without a doubt, the best pita I've ever had. The menu is Middle-Eastern and everything is very inexpensive. Also, their backyard is very charming. Bonus: the complimentary almond cake served at the end of your meal is heavenly.

Nicky's sandwiches- Nicky's is a hole in the wall Vietnamese sandwich shop, with the best banh mi I've ever had. Delish! Atmosphere inside is lacking, so maybe grab a sandwich to go?

Pacifico- Fun and delicioso Mexican! The prices aren't cheap (or expensive), but everything is really good and the servings are large and in charge. Try and get a table outside, although this may be easier said than done. And definitely get a margarita pitcher.



Joya- Tantalizing Thai. (Like that?) I love Joya because it's delicious, inexpensive and in a really chic atmosphere. Hello-kitty buddhas are nowhere to be found, not that we all don't love them.

Jolie- So, I've actually only had Jolie's food at Atlantic Antic and have not yet eaten in the restaurant, however, their food was so good that I had to include them. The cause of this restaurant recommendation gamble was a melt-in-your-mouth pork sandwich. O. m. g. I will definitely be eating in the restaurant soon and I cannot wait for Atlantic Antic again!

Saul- Saul is truly the best fine dining in Brooklyn and maybe even the best I've had in New York City. It's my pick for a special occasion, without a doubt. Their menu changes seasonally and they are one of the restaurants following the 'locavore' trend. No matter what you get it will be delicious. My strategy is order at least one item with a poached egg. Trust me.

al di la- Really amazing Mediterranean-influenced cuisine. Highly recommended!

Peter Luger's Steakhouse- Luger's is a total classic and definitely worth the experience. You have to wait at least a month to get a table, and then you'll pay an arm and a leg for a steak with pretty simple sides, but man is it worth it. I'm not much of a red meat eater, but the porterhouse steak is out of this world. You really must go at least once.


Bars

Pacifico- Great margaritas and the outdoor space is prime during summer.

Camp- Where else can you play board games and eat s'mores respectably if you're not 10?

Brooklyn Brewery- where they brew Brooklyn beer! No food, but you can order in.

Bacchus (wine bar)- nice for an upscale change of pace and the patio is great during summer.

Floyd's- Great spot to catch a soccer/rugby/cricket game and also play bocce while you drink

Local 61- all drinks are from local breweries, wineries and distilleries

Activities

Brooklyn Museum- great African art collection, in addition to lots of other great art and installations.

Brooklyn Botanic Gardens- a beautiful stop when you're exploring Prospect Park.


Walk the Brooklyn Heights Promenade- the best view of downtown Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge.



Coney Island- get your fill of kitsch!