Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in DUMBO
Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in DUMBO
1. Time Out Market New York
A multi-vendor food hall inside the historic Empire Stores where you can graze from some of NYC’s most-hyped eateries under one roof, then head to the rooftop for skyline views.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the easiest way to sample a cross-section of New York flavors in a single stop—perfect for groups with varied tastes.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays from late morning to mid-afternoon for fewer lines; arrive near sunset to enjoy the rooftop terrace and golden-hour photos.
✓ Insider Tip:
Start upstairs on the 5th-floor terrace to snag a table with views, then send someone to order—crowds thin earlier in the day.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers love the variety and the photo-worthy setting; prices skew high but the convenience and views win people over.
2. Juliana's Pizza
Coal-fired pies from a Brooklyn legend deliver a blistered crust and balanced sauce in a cozy, old-school space steps from the river.
✓ Why Go:
Many consider it the neighborhood’s benchmark for classic New York pizza done with precision and heritage.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon or early evening on weekdays to avoid peak dinner queues.
✓ Insider Tip:
They don’t take reservations—put your name in and stroll the nearby promenade until you’re called.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Lines can be long, but guests rave that the wait melts away with the first bite of a simple margherita.
3. Grimaldi's Pizzeria
A coal-oven institution beneath the bridge serving thin, smoky pies in a lively, multi-room space.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a slice of NYC pizza history—ideal for taste-testing alongside Juliana’s to settle friendly debates.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early lunch or early dinner; avoid weekend prime time.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask the host which dining room has the quickest seating and split a white pie with a classic red to compare.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Touristy but beloved; visitors praise the charred crust and fast turnarounds once seated.
4. The River Café
A landmark waterside restaurant with postcard views of the skyline, known for elegant seasonal American cooking and polished service.
✓ Why Go:
For a special-occasion meal that pairs refined plates with some of the city’s most unforgettable scenery.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset into evening for twinkling skyline vistas and bridge lights.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve well in advance and note the dress code; arrive early to capture photos along the adjacent waterfront.
✓ What Visitors Say:
A splurge guests remember—romantic setting, attentive staff, and a singular sense of place.
5. Celestine
Eastern Mediterranean plates and mezze served in an airy, plant-filled room with a terrace facing the Manhattan skyline.
✓ Why Go:
Shareable, vibrant flavors and waterfront ambiance make it a favorite for brunch or date night.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend brunch for a leisurely feast or golden hour for dreamy terrace dining.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request an outdoor table when booking and build a meal around mezze and flatbreads for the full experience.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the bright flavors and calm, breezy setting—many call it a DUMBO staple.
6. Almondine Bakery
A beloved French bakery turning out flaky croissants, fruit tarts, and crusty baguettes from morning till sellout.
✓ Why Go:
Perfect pastry craftsmanship makes this a must-stop coffee-and-croissant break during a DUMBO stroll.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings for the widest selection; weekend lines form quickly.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pick up a box of pastries and walk two minutes to Pebble Beach for a memorable waterfront breakfast.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Locals and visitors swoon over the almond croissants; small space, big flavor.
7. Jacques Torres Chocolate
The famed chocolatier’s DUMBO shop tempts with handcrafted truffles, cookies, and decadently rich hot chocolate.
✓ Why Go:
Satisfy your sweet tooth with artisan confections from a New York chocolate pioneer.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons for a pick-me-up; winter is prime time for sipping hot chocolate.
✓ Insider Tip:
In warm months, try the frozen hot chocolate and browse seasonal specialties at the counter.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families and chocoholics call it a treat highlight—quality ingredients, deep cocoa flavors.
8. Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory
Classic, small-batch scoops made with short ingredient lists, best enjoyed steps from the East River.
✓ Why Go:
Simple, nostalgic flavors plus unbeatable views make this a quintessential DUMBO dessert stop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Warm evenings for a cone-and-sunset combo; weekdays to skip the longest lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Carry your cone to Fulton Ferry Landing for breezy seating and bridge panoramas.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors praise the straightforward, super-creamy texture and the scenic surroundings.
9. One Girl Cookies
A charming café for whoopie pies, petite cookies, and coffee in a photogenic, brick-walled space.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an ideal sweet stop to refuel between waterfront views and cobblestone photo ops.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-morning for fresh bakes and easier seating.
✓ Insider Tip:
Build a box of assorted cookies—great souvenirs that actually make it home (if you can resist).
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the cozy vibe and beautifully crafted treats—small, sweet, and satisfying.
10. Ignazio's Pizza
Brick-oven pies with a crispy-chewy crust served just steps from the bridge, often with shorter waits than the marquee spots.
✓ Why Go:
A dependable alternative when nearby lines are epic—without skimping on flavor or views.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Lunch or early dinner before the evening rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for a window seat for prime bridge views and try the vodka-sauce pie for something different.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Widely considered a solid, less-hyped option; families appreciate the relaxed, friendly service.
