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City Living: Brooklyn Heights

By Jacqui Gal | Special to amNewYork

August 9, 2007

Find it Brooklyn Heights runs from Fulton Street and the Brooklyn Bridge to the north; Atlantic Avenue to the south; the East River to the west; and from the river to Court Street and Cadman Plaza.

With its tree-lined streets and brownstones a plenty, it's not difficult to see why Brooklyn Heights has long been one of New York's choicest neighborhoods.

"It's just far away enough from the city to relax," explains local blogger John Loscalzo, but not so far as to make one feel isolated from the goings on in Manhattan. Locals also cite a feeling of quiet and safety, and the beautifully maintained architecture as chief among Brooklyn Heights' attractions.

Brooklyn Heights is a sought-after neighborhood for prospering artists and young professionals, often with young families. It's particularly attractive thanks to the quiet, safe streets and the beautifully maintained brownstones and old mansions that have been split into residential apartments. The neighborhood has also been a long-standing favorite with the literary set, but younger authors these days are unlikely to afford a move here.

Rich in history, Brooklyn Heights was popular even before the Brooklyn Bridge was opened in 1883, when it was the Fulton Ferry that provided transport across the East River to downtown Manhattan. Then, Brooklyn was an independent city, and was consolidated into New York City in 1898. Today, the population of Brooklyn Heights is far more cosmopolitan than it was in the 19th century.

In the 19th century, Walt Whitman worked his magic in Brooklyn Heights, as did Truman Capote and Arthur Miller during the following century. Today, Brookyln Heights is home to Norman Mailer and actor Paul Giamatti. This year, Tim Robbins and Susan Sarandon purchased a home in the neighborhood.

To eat Any local will tell you that the neighborhood's downfall is a dearth of good local restaurants. However, residents will never want for a selection of great restaurants, with Cobble Hill's Smith Street close at hand. Neighboring DUMBO also boasts a growing number of culinary destinations. Both are a short stroll away. Nonetheless, here are a few local favorites.

Noodle Pudding, 38 Henry St., 718-625-3737 This restaurant - thanks to its popularity - can be a little squishy at times. Try their buffalo mozzarella, homemade pasta or the organic, roasted half-chicken. With its moderate prices and cozy, family run atmosphere, it's little wonder this place is a hands-down favorite with many of the locals.

Heights CafÃ©, 84 Montague St. 718-625-5555 Favored above all for its proximity to the promenade, this corner cafe with big windows and outdoor seating is a popular meeting place for brunch or coffee. It serves new American fare, and regulars recommend sticking to old favorites -- burgers, meatloaf and French toast.

Tripoli, 156 Atlantic Ave. 718-596-5800 For an authentic Lebanese meal, head to Tripoli. In addition to the mouth-watering selection of grilled and baked (predominantly lamb) dishes for under $15, it may be a treat to see that the vegetarian members of your party are accommodated by a selection of nine meatless dishes. The menu also features a handful of steak, chicken and seafood choices. Hoping to replicate the experience at home? Buy a bottle of the Lebanese cold-pressed, unfiltered, extra virgin olive oil on sale at the restaurant and online.

Teresa's, 80 Montague St. 718-797-3996 Authentic and inexpensive, this Polish restaurant serves up all of the national favorites, like pierogies, kielbasa and four kinds of blintzes, together with plenty of American fare. Most menu items are less than $10, and with its outdoor seating and proximity to the promenade, it's a popular spot for brunch.

To party Aside from a few neighborhood gems, Brooklyn Heights is not known for its thriving nightlife. Although, an ever-growing number of new bars opening in nearby DUMBO and Fort Greene mean there are options aplenty for nightlife refugees.

Last exit 36 Atlantic Ave. 718-222-9198 Visit this bar on the last Tuesday of every month for poetry readings, the first and third Mondays for pub quizzes or anytime for a rotation of DJs from Thursdays to Saturdays. Out back, there is a garden, open during the summer 4-9pm. Do-it-yourselfers can call ahead and reserve a spot to grill their own produce on the bar's BBQ, and then enjoy the spoils under the stars.

Floyd, NY 131 Atlantic Ave. 718-858-5810 What other bar could boast an indoor bocce ball court, complete with a competitive bocce league, and comfy sofas out front for post-game relaxation? Floyd, NY has become something of a magnet for Brooklyn's British expat community. Why? Maybe it's because they screen every Premier League and World Cup soccer game, no matter what the hour, and they're right next door to the Brit-run Chipshop.

Magnetic Fields, 97 Atlantic Ave. 718-834-0069 Live music, game show nights and a weekly Sunday baseball brunch keep the locals coming into this bar with a 60s and 70s rock vibe. Catering to the post-college crowd, this nightspot is a strong supporter of indie rock and local bands.

To shop Brooklyn Heights is the only neighborhood in Brooklyn, so far, to have attracted a full complement of major chain outlets, in the streets around Borough Hall and Montague Street. Alongside these, there's a wide variety of locally owned business, including gourmet shops, clothing, furniture and mom-and-pop service outlets.

Heights books, 109 Montague St. 718-624 4876. In an age of soaring Internet book sales, there's satisfaction in the knowledge that people still like to peruse old shelves. This store offers out-of-print books, obscure manuscripts and vintage pulp fiction titles, coupled with a friendly staff, who are only too happy to hear customers' preferences and make recommendations.

Sahadi's, 187 Atlantic Ave. 718-624-4550 Step into a Middle Eastern gourmet wonderland and choose from more than 100 kinds of cheese, or peruse the open sacks of grains and spices. Locals like to shop for the homemade hummus and salads, dried fruit, olives, coffee, nuts, pita bread and marinated mozzarella balls. Prices are kept low thanks to the store's status as a wholesaler and retailer. But it's no secret gem, so prepare to take a number and wait patiently during peak times.

Heights Chateau, 123 Atlantic Ave. 718-330-0963 An acclaimed wine store and destination for wine lovers from all over the city, Heights Chateau has a robust collection, knowledgeable staff and good prices. What else could you ask for?

Nova Zembla, 117 Atlantic Ave. 718-222-5705 Rugs, fabrics, pillows and throws provide colorful accents for the solid wood furniture and custom-designed upholstery on sale here. Dressers, armoires and end tables are crafted in India from solid rosewood and reclaimed teak, while create-your-own lamps are sourced from Ohio. Sofas, ottomans and armchairs are made to order and shipped from California.