Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in Prospect Heights
Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in Prospect Heights
1. Olmsted
A garden-to-table benchmark where seasonal, inventive plates are anchored by produce grown out back and a bustling Vanderbilt Avenue dining room.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the neighborhood’s culinary calling card—creative without being fussy and a perfect snapshot of Brooklyn’s farm-driven ethos.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early dinner on weeknights for shorter waits; weekend brunch if you want a slower, sunlit experience.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for a seat by the backyard windows and save room for whatever dessert is built around in-season fruit.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners gush about thoughtful flavor combos, warm service, and a ‘special-occasion feel’ at neighborhood prices.
2. Alta Calidad
Modern Mexican with Brooklyn swagger—masa-forward dishes, vibrant salsas, and playful takes on classics in a lively corner space.
✓ Why Go:
For bold, shareable plates and a cocktail list that pairs perfectly with tacos, tlayudas, and charred veggies.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Prime time is 6–8 pm; arrive before 6 for easier walk-ins or late-night for a relaxed vibe.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order at least one masa-centric special and a seasonal margarita; the kitchen shines with limited-run items.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests praise the punchy flavors, friendly staff, and value—‘a go-to for groups and date nights alike.’
3. James
A cozy New American staple championing local farms—comforting dishes, a strong burger, and a polished-but-relaxed room.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a neighborhood anchor for seasonal cooking and a thoughtful wine list without the scene-y fuss.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknight dinner or weekend brunch; book ahead for peak hours.
✓ Insider Tip:
If the burger’s on the menu, get it—paired with a savory starter and a glass of something biodynamic.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Regulars love the ‘quietly excellent’ plates and attentive service that makes even a Tuesday feel special.
4. Tom's Restaurant
Old-school diner joy since the 1930s—hearty breakfasts, griddled comfort food, and soda-fountain classics on Washington Avenue.
✓ Why Go:
For a timeless Brooklyn breakfast: pancakes, omelets, and egg creams that fuel a Prospect Heights stroll.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings to dodge the weekend brunch line.
✓ Insider Tip:
Try the lemon-ricotta pancakes or a classic egg cream; cash or card policies can vary, so come prepared.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it ‘nostalgic and soulful’ with portions that hit the spot without breaking the bank.
5. Amorina Cucina Rustica
Neighborhood trattoria beloved for thin-crust pies, simple pastas, and a warmly lit room perfect for lingering.
✓ Why Go:
A reliable pizza night that still feels special—ideal for families, dates, and carb-loving crews.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening for families; later for a date-night glow.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a seasonal pie and a fresh salad—the balance makes the meal sing.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans rave about consistent pies, friendly service, and a ‘true local’ atmosphere.
6. BKLYN Larder
Artisan cheese, cured meats, and gourmet pantry heaven with standout sandwiches and prepared foods.
✓ Why Go:
It’s picnic central for Prospect Park or an easy way to self-curate a Brooklyn tasting board.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons for less rush; weekends for full sample energy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff to build you a cheese flight around a theme—New York producers, funky rinds, or sheep’s milk.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers celebrate knowledgeable staff and ‘can’t-go-wrong’ sandwich picks.
7. LaLou
A natural-wine darling with market-driven small plates and a serene, minimalist room on Vanderbilt Avenue.
✓ Why Go:
To explore low-intervention bottles with cooking that’s as precise as the wine list.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour for aperitif energy; late evening for a more intimate feel.
✓ Insider Tip:
Let the team suggest a by-the-glass progression; they excel at food-friendly pairings.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests applaud the ‘thoughtful pours, beautifully plated bites, and calm, grown-up vibe.’
8. Morgan's Brooklyn Barbecue
Central Texas–style barbecue—smoky brisket, ribs, and sides—served in a spacious, lively setting near the arena.
✓ Why Go:
When only wood-smoked meat will do; ideal for groups and game-day feasts.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late lunch avoids dinner lines; expect crowds before events nearby.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order meat by the half-pound and share sides so you can sample widely.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Carnivores cheer the brisket bark and ‘finger-licking’ sauces.
9. Nat's on Dean
Cheerful, seasonal spot with playful small plates and a smart wine list tucked on a quiet Dean Street block.
✓ Why Go:
For inventive flavors without pretense—perfect for sharing and discovering new favorites.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights for walk-ins; weekends book ahead.
✓ Insider Tip:
Sit at the bar to watch the action and get pairing ideas straight from the team.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Locals call it ‘creative, polished, and unbuttoned’—a new-school neighborhood classic.
10. Patti Ann's
A nostalgic, schoolhouse-inspired eatery from the Olmsted team serving comfort-food hits with chefly finesse.
✓ Why Go:
It scratchs the itch for familiar flavors—casseroles, deviled eggs, fun desserts—made with top-tier ingredients.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Family-friendly early evenings; brunch for throwback classics.
✓ Insider Tip:
Share a few ‘classroom’ starters before a hearty main; the playful menu rewards mixing and matching.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the ‘cozy, memory-lane vibe’ paired with serious cooking.
