If you’re like me, rolling through Brooklyn can feel like navigating a food jungle. Everywhere you turn, there’s a spot that looks good, but with so many restaurants on every block, how do you even begin to choose? Brooklyn is all about diversity—Mexican, Italian, French, cozy wine bars—but sometimes you’ve just gotta find the hidden gems without getting lost in the sauce.
Let me spill the tea on how I do it.
1. Follow the Locals’ Lead
Here’s a pro tip: Look for the people who aren’t tourists. You know, the ones who’ve clearly parked themselves at a table and look like they live there—laptop out, Zoom call going, sipping on their third glass of wine like they own the place. If a spot has two or three of those low-key regulars who clearly vibe there, go in. No fancy marketing, no trendy signage—just real, solid food that keeps people coming back. Trust me, I’ve never gone wrong with this.
2. Get Cozy with Wine Bars
Brooklyn’s wine bars? Yeah, they’re a whole mood. Imagine sliding into a gorgeous, low-lit spot with exposed brick walls, sipping a glass of something red and rich, while folks around you tap away on their laptops like they’re running the world. That’s the vibe. These wine bars are perfect for unwinding after a busy day of wandering around Brooklyn. Plus, the people-watching is chef’s kiss.
3. Find Those Quaint Bistros
French bistros in Brooklyn? Oh, honey, they’re next level. Picture this: You’re seated at a cute little wooden table, the smell of fresh bread in the air, with brick walls and outdoor seating lining the sidewalks. It’s giving Paris vibes, but in the heart of Brooklyn. These bistros may not have a massive following on Instagram, but they serve up the kind of meals you’ll dream about later. It’s all about the cozy, intimate vibe and food that speaks for itself.
4. Brooklyn's Diverse AF
One of my favorite things about Brooklyn? The variety. You can find authentic Italian food that’ll have you speaking with your hands by the end of the meal, and spicy Mexican spots that make you want to text all your friends, “You have to try this place.” Okay, I won’t lie—nobody beats LA when it comes to tacos, but Brooklyn Mexican spots have their own flex. Their margaritas? On point. And the tacos? Definitely hit the spot when you’re craving something spicy and flavorful.
5. Trust Your Gut—Literally
Here’s the thing: You don’t need to scroll through endless reviews or agonize over where to eat. Just trust your gut. Walk down the street, take in the vibe, and if something makes you pause—whether it’s the smell of garlic drifting out of a tiny Italian joint or a cute wine bar with a sign that catches your eye—go for it. That’s how I’ve found some of my favorite places in Brooklyn, just by following that gut feeling (and my taste buds).
Final Thoughts
Finding great restaurants in Brooklyn is less about following the trends and more about finding your vibe. Keep your eyes peeled for the locals, stop into a wine bar for some chill vibes, and get ready to experience everything from charming bistros to hidden taco spots. Brooklyn’s got it all—and you’re not gonna want to miss out. So throw on your best “I’m in Brooklyn” outfit and get to it, babe—your next unforgettable meal is just a few blocks away.
🍷☀️ Catch me wine-sipping in Brooklyn!
—Jessica Nichole