Oh hey there. It’s been awhile. You should cut me a little slack because I’ve been busy. I worked in Toronto for a year, came back to New York, moved apartments, started a new job, and so forth. Don’t worry, I’ve obviously been eating and drinking just as much, I just haven’t been writing about it. But that’s all about to change (at least for now).
We are starting recommencing with a little known place that goes by the name “Red Hook.” If the only thought that comes to your mind when I say “Red Hook” is “IKEA,” you really need to get out more. Yes, it's not incredibly accessible by subway, but you can take almost every other mode of transportation to get there – bike, ferry, taxi, bus, or. your feet.
I must admit, I’m new to Red Hook. I’ve probably spent a total of 5 hours there, and one of those is when I ran through it, (frantically trying to jot down all of the places I must come back to try when I’m not a sweaty, tired mess). So, we are going to venture into uncharted territory together and I have a feeling we won’t be disappointed.
I’d save this one for a weekend, when you have the time to really explore and enjoy. Also, because I feel bad that I’ve been away for so long, I made this a full day with four stops instead of the usual three. You’re welcome.
THE FIRST
Fort Defiance: The biscuits got me interested and the Irish Coffee convinced me. Sometimes you don’t want a “drunk 20-somethings dancing on tables” brunch (not sure we ever wanted that). Sometimes you simply want a really good breakfast and I think that’s where Fort Defiance thrives. The brunch menu features eight main dishes and 12 side dishes. In addition, people rave about their Irish Coffee. To be honest, I had to google what exactly an Irish Coffee was. For your reference, it is hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, stirred, and topped with thick cream (according to Wikipedia). Can’t go wrong there, can you?
365 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
via Gourmet.com
THE SECOND
Baked: What is the only thing to do after brunch? Get a sweet of course. To be fair, I think that pattern should be reserved for special occasions, but hey, you made it to Red Hook, you definitely deserve a treat after brunch. One look at the offerings at Baked and I was hooked (pun intended). Sweet and salty brownies, whoopie pies, donuts, and some incredible mutated hybrid of a cookie and brownie – there is something for everyone here. I’m not telling you that you have to eat it right away, but I do think you should get something (or three). Stash it for later if you have self-control, otherwise just get the goodness over with.
359 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
via bakednyc.com
THE THIRD
Valentino Pier: Okay, so everyone boasts a good view – the Staten Island Ferry, Brooklyn Bridge, that adult entertainment club I walk past on the way to work every morning – but it’s always good to get a different perspective (don’t include the club in that reference please). I bet you’ve never heard of Valentino Pier, however I dare say it has one of the best views of the Statue of Liberty that you’ve never seen. Everyone loves a good New York City view, especially at sunrise or sunset and I promise this one will not disappoint.
Louis Valentino Jr. Park, Brooklyn, NY 11231
via rhedbrooklyn.org
THE (BONUS) FOURTH
Brooklyn Ice House: I would casually say that I am one of the biggest fans of drinking (strike that) being outside (okay, drinking too). Sometimes there really is nothing better than sitting outside on a warm day, with a drink in your hand. Beer just tastes better outside. You know I’m right. Brooklyn Ice House has a pretty standard beer garden outback, but its in Red Hook, so you have to try it on this adventure. Non-pretentious, super laid back, and has a fire pit, what’s not to like?
318 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
via timeout.com
I just realized these places all pretty much exist on one street. Here’s to venturing out - just not that far. See a map of this date here.