This text is part of the special book Plaisirs
When the time comes to plan a getaway to New York for the Easter long weekend, we often think of Manhattan. Other boroughs are however worth the detour, or even the entire stay, and particularly that of Brooklyn. Guided tour.
The best way to discover a city is to get lost in its streets. This is sometimes how we make beautiful encounters, how we come across corners of paradise. And this is all the more the case in Brooklyn, since this part of New York, located west of Long Island between the East River and the Atlantic Ocean, offers an incredible view of its famous neighbor Manhattan. The best-known panorama is undoubtedly from Dumbo, a small neighborhood bounded by the emblematic Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges. At the foot of Jane’s Carousel, observe the imposing skyscrapers on the other side, then take the Brooklyn Bridge Park promenade to the south to admire the Financial District. Day or night, the ride is definitely worth it. There is even a branch of Shake Shack, a typical fast food chain of the megalopolis, where you can order excellent burgers for an urban picnic.
Further north, not far from Queens, we find the rapidly changing neighborhood of Greenpoint. If you go up West Street then Commercial Street, several green spaces — WNYC Transmitter Park, Newtown Barge Playground, Greenpoint Landing Esplanade and Manhattan Avenue Street End Park — reveal the magnificence of the buildings of Midtown.
Weather permitting, Brooklyn is also blessed with beaches. In Williamsburg, we bask until sunset on the sands of Charlotte Beach to the sound of the lapping of the river and the sirens that never stop. The subway network also goes to Coney Island, very popular with locals and tourists for the quaint charm of Luna Park, its boardwalk and its huge beach with, as a bonus, the very famous hot dogs from Nathan’s.
An artistic destination
From a cultural point of view, Brooklyn has nothing to envy to its neighbors. On the contrary. Art lovers will be delighted to stroll through the halls of the Brooklyn Museum, which regularly hosts major exhibitions. At the moment, the establishment even receives, until May 7, Thierry, Mugler: Couturissime, designed by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and traveling around the world. Notice therefore to those who would have missed it in Quebec. The rich permanent collection includes photographs, decorative art objects, contemporary art, European art and Aboriginal art.
When it comes to galleries, the choice is just as effervescent and interesting. Note, among others, Marvin Gardens, Transmitter and Clearing in Bushwick; Pierogi and Soloway in Williamsburg; Higher Pictures Generation and AIR Gallery in Dumbo.
The programming of the various concert halls and clubs is, of course, to watch for any self-respecting night owl. Baby’s All Right, House of Yes, Pete’s Candy Store, Union Pool, Trans-Pecos, The Lot Radio, Alphaville or even Kings Theatre… it’s impossible not to find what you’re looking for!
In addition, Brooklyn has several independent movie theaters—Film Noir Cinema and Nighthawk Cinema—and even an outdoor screening space with views of Manhattan buildings, Skyline Drive in NYC.
The one who is greedy
Let’s get to the heart of the matter: visiting Brooklyn is also the promise of a delicious and intoxicating experience. As for the food, the Hart’s restaurant, in the Bedford-Stuyvesant district, is a must. Its tiny room welcoming a handful of guests, it is strongly advised to go early to book. We especially enjoy a clam toast, its signature dish, accompanied by impeccable cocktails and natural wines.
A trip to New York without pizzas wouldn’t really be a trip, as there are so many pizzerias… There really is something for all tastes and all budgets! If the reputation of Roberta’s (Bushwick) is well established, the restaurant Lucali (Boerum Hill) is seriously on the rise with its calzones. For takeout, we think of Salsa (Greenpoint) and Vinnie’s Pizzeria (Williamsburg).
In Bushwick, two addresses are to be remembered, as much for the dishes as for the atmosphere and the decor. First there is The Turk’s Inn, recognizable from several meters around thanks to a white and red storefront. You can eat very good Middle Eastern specialties in an ultra-kitsch atmosphere. As for the Mesa Azteca restaurant, you can savor several Mexican culinary specialties and margaritas on the lively terrace in the backyard.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Peter Pan pastry shop (Greenpoint) is a must try, despite the queue. Indeed, everyone rushes there for its donuts and filter coffee that are frankly not expensive and just as enchanting.
Whether it’s a good start or end to your evening, Hotel Delmano (Williamsburg) is the ideal place. The bar, super-elegant and warm, is perfect for sipping a house cocktail and enjoying a few oysters. You can also stay until late at George Jack’s Tap Room, an unpretentious dive bar where you’re happy that the drinks are quite affordable.
dream big
When it comes to housing, two neighborhoods come out on top for location and accessibility: Williamsburg and Boerum Hill. The first is full of top-of-the-range hotels. The Williamsburg Hotel particularly stands out for its royal customer service and airy, tastefully decorated rooms, some of which have balconies. A very special mention for the Skyline Suite, an open concept and completely windowed, from where you can discreetly contemplate both Manhattan and Brooklyn from your bath, shower or bed.
Finally, in Boerum Hill, the Ace Hotel Brooklyn offers its guests rooms and suites with modern decor with a touch of Scandinavian design in enveloping comfort. Maybe some will even be lucky enough to be able to observe the Statue of Liberty from their window, who knows… The highlight of the establishment is undoubtedly the sublime all-wooden bar, where we like to linger for a drink. last drink and chat with other visitors, as well as its very friendly staff.
This special content was produced by the Special Publications team of the Duty, pertaining to marketing. The drafting of Duty did not take part.