It’s a not-too-well-kept secret that many of the best restaurants in NYC are in Brooklyn. The borough’s relatively lower operating costs and more discerning customers ensure a well-groomed selection of destination eateries. Whereas Queens excels for authenticity, Brooklyn is generally the best place to find chef-founded spots catering to food nerds and taking risks. Most Brooklyners have their “secret spot”, and there’s a certain cache that knowing the hidden gem in the borderline neighborhood bestows. Don’t be fooled, however. Brooklyn is upscale even where it looks threadbare. Bushwisk, Prospect Heights, even Bed-Stuy, are fast becoming hotbeds for outer boroughs gastronomy.
| Restaurant | Address | Neighborhood | Type of Food | Vibe | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Gen  |
659 Washington Ave Brooklyn, NY 11238 | Prospect Heights | Japanese – sushi, sukiyaki, miscellaneous | Upscale Casual | Simple dishes, exceptionally well-prepared |
2. Paulie Gee’s  |
60 Greenpoint Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11222 | Greenpoint | Pizza – authentic Neapolitan style | Upscale Casual | Blissful marriage of old-school and new. Brick oven, microbrews, and ever-present owner. |
3. Pilar Cuban Eatery  |
393 Classon Ave New York, NY 11238 | Clinton Hill/Bed Stuy | Cuban | Nabe Casual | Just a few tables, and a tiny kitchen, but artisanal Cuban food with inspiration in every bite. |
| 4. Barboncino |
781 Franklin Ave Brooklyn, NY 11238 | Prospect Heights/Crown Heights | Pizza – authentic, cocktail bar | Upscale Casual | Pizza the equal of anywhere in the 5 boroughs, plus class and cocktails |
5. Ki Sushi  |
122 Smith St Brooklyn, NY 11201 | Cobble Hill | Sushi – artisanal | Upscale Casual | Dollar-for-dollar, the best sushi experience in the city. |
6. Buttermilk Channel  |
524 Court St Brooklyn, NY 11231 | Carroll Gardens | Comfort-food/gastronerd/wine bar | Upscale Casual | Best guilty pleasure spot in brooklyn. Comfort food and wine, with cheffed-up flair. |
