Brooklyn doesn’t do one kind of dining. It’s sandwiches wrapped in paper and eaten on a stoop. It’s long dinners of Thai food and tapas that turn into late nights on the town. It’s coffee that turns into pastries that turns into, somehow, another coffee.
Staying at NU Hotel Brooklyn puts you in a neighborhood where you can walk to a lot of it, and hop on the train for the rest. Here are the best places to eat in Brooklyn right now, whether you’re keeping it casual or making a night out of it.
The No-Brainer Classics (Worth Planning Around)
These are the places people talk about before they even land in Brooklyn.
A Red Hook institution since the 1920s, and still one of the best sandwiches you’ll have anywhere. Go for something classic: roast beef with mozzarella, maybe eggplant, and don’t overthink it. It’s big, messy, and exactly what you crave.
If you’re chasing one of Brooklyn’s most talked-about slices, this is it. The burrata slice gets the attention, but everything here is solid. Expect a line. It moves fast.
Brunch, but done really well. The pancakes are famous for a reason, but it’s just as good for dinner if you want something a little more relaxed yet polished. Head’s up: weekend brunch is first come, first served.
A Lively Dinner Scene
For when you want to sit down, stay awhile, and order another round with friends.
A tiny wine bar with a big reputation. Thoughtful small plates, a serious wine list, and a room that somehow feels both low-key and special at the same time.
This French brasserie leans classic in the best way. Good bread, good butter, steak frites, and an elevated dining space that was made to be photographed.
One of the more exciting meals in Brooklyn right now. Persian-inspired dishes meant for sharing, bold flavors, and a menu of exciting combinations (think Lamb Ribs with tamarind-date sauce, and Hashoo Mahi with pomegranate).
Under-the-Radar Favorites
The kind of places people wish they found sooner.
A neighborhood spot that quietly does everything right. Seasonal menu, warm lighting, and a perfect room to settle in for a long meal with old friends. We love that it’s housed in a former Bushwick tailor shop built in 1914.
Part café, part listening bar. Inspired by Japanese vinyl culture, it’s a great spot to slow down with a drink and let the music set the tone.
A go-to for Northern Thai food with serious flavor. Casual, lively, and a great option when you want dishes you don’t usually find like Ta-Lay Prik Phao, a spicy, creamy seafood curry that will take you straight to Bangkok.
Close to the Hotel (Easy Wins)
Because sometimes you just want something good without going far.
A short walk from the hotel, with a little bit of everything. Ramen, fried chicken, tacos, pizza. Ideal if everyone in your group has a different craving to quench.
A true neighborhood favorite for Neapolitan pizza. Simple, classic, and consistently excellent. It’s one of the closest “you can just walk there” wins.
Mediterranean dishes with creative twists. This one gets real love from locals and critics alike, especially for its lively atmosphere and delicious iterations of sharable favorites like lamb kofta, haloumi skewers, and decadent babka.
One of the more buzzed-about newcomers in Fort Greene from the award-winning team at Happy Cooking. It’s already landed on tons of “best of NYC” lists and has that rare mix of polished food and relaxed vibe.
Worth the Trip
A little further out, but you’ll be glad you went.
- Lucali – legendary pizza, candlelight, and a wait that’s part of the experience
- Lilia – a tough reservation that comes with bragging rights
- Di Fara Pizza – a classic slice with serious history
Eat Like You’re Staying Here Forever
Staying at NU Hotel Brooklyn places you in the center of the action, and the borough’s best eats. Come hungry, come curious, and Brooklyn’s local spots will take care of your cravings. Discover more can’t miss Brooklyn adventures to check out during your stay.