City Living: Prospect Park South

By Miranda Siegel | Special to amNewYork

January 3, 2008

Prospect Park South (Lane Johnson, amNewYork / January 2, 2008)

Deep in the belly of Flatbush lies an enclave of colossal freestanding houses, characterized by turrets, oriel windows, grand entrances flanked by columns and expansive wraparound porches.

Landmarked in 1979, the area originated in the mind of Dean Alvord, a developer who purchased the land at the turn of the century--right as the rail service was expanding into the area.

Alvord wanted to create an area that offered a suburban atmosphere--rus in urbe, or "country in the city"--in contrast to the more urban feel of the row houses sprouting up all over Brooklyn at the time.

Alvord envisioned a neighborhood of houses built in different architectural styles-- among them Colonial Revival, neo-Tudor, French Revival, Shingle Style and a few Queen Annes and Spanish Missions--set back 40 feet from the sidewalk.

This unique neighborhood planning gave way to an airy, elegant feel; the streets were even given fancy British names. Alvord hoped that his creation would be "patronized almost entirely by people of intelligence and good breeding."

Though the neighborhood never fell into disrepair, relations between Prospect Park South and the less-wealthy surrounding areas have seen some rough times in the past.

In the 1970s, muggings and various thefts occurred along Church Avenue and Cortelyou Avenue, the main drags of the area. It had gotten bad enough that Prospect Park South's residents began paying for private neighborhood security. According to residents, things have improved since then.

Still, some have their doubts about the relationship between Victorian Flatbush--a blanket term for Prospect Park South and the cluster of ritzy neighborhoods to the south--and other parts of Flatbush.

"To be honest, it's separate," said one resident, who did not want to be named. "There's just not much interaction between the two; a silent hostility, perhaps."

The existence of the Flatbush Family Network might serve as proof that everyone can get along. The organization covers the entire area and works to improve quality of life for all Flatbush residents, seeking to unite the community while addressing the diverse needs of the residents.

TO EAT

Because Prospect Park South is technically part of Flatbush, it's surrounded by an extensive array of Caribbean restaurants and roti shops--especially if one heads east along Church Avenue (where the beloved Veggie Castle has unfortunately just closed). A few blocks south of the Prospect Park South border is Cortelyou Avenue, where you'll find high-end comfort food and great brunch. It is rumored that a branch of NYC ICY will be opening on Church Avenue soon.

The Farm on Adderley
When The Farm opened its doors back in summer 2006, the Ditmas/Prospect Park South crowd went absolutely crazy. A cozy nouveau American restaurant with a seasonal menu, The Farm also has a little backyard garden and a bar, offers half-price lunch specials and hosts various events. Do not leave until you have eaten their extraordinary fries.
1180 Cortelyou Rd. 718-287-3101

In Between Eatery and Pastry Place
How rare to find such a simple, eloquent (and accurate) name for a restaurant! Get your saltfish, oxtail, goat and roti stuffed with meat and veggies, then pick from the selection of homemade sweets. This homey Trinidadian spot also has a curious juice selection with choices like peanut and sea moss punch.
1003 Church Ave. between East 10th Street and Stratford Road

Picket Fence
Neighborhood parents love taking the kids to Picket Fence, which boasts a "comfortable food" menu comprised of local and seasonal ingredients. Inside you'll find a breezy, bright space highlighted by buttery yellow walls; outside is a charming back yard. Among the delights are smoked gouda mac and cheese, delicious burgers with homemade pickles, top-notch brunch options and a long list of creamy, veggie-based side dishes.