Peaceful streets lead to quiet waterfronts in the North Brooklyn neighborhood of Greenpoint, known for its vibrant art and fashion scene that comes with a sustainable stance on style. Residents have infused the area and put a new touch on post-industrial structures, bringing about change and modernity with the conversion of abandoned warehouses to cool, contemporary homes and community spaces. Expect to find hidden gems around every corner.
Many of the businesses here have been around for decades, which makes Greenpoint feel like an intimate community within an ever-changing borough. It’s the kind of neighborhood where the local bodega owner knows your egg sandwich and coffee order in the morning.
As for the independents, here are our favorites…
Sweet Leaf Coffee serves excellent espresso-infused drinks in an open, converted warehouse. It was founded in 2008 by Rich Nieto, a Queens native who wanted to roast coffee that reflects New York City: diverse, sophisticated, and decidedly unique.
Paulie Gee is a dimly-lit, rustic pizza restaurant with amazing vegan options. With ingredients like cashew ricotta, vegan fennel sausage, and jackfruit “meatball,” both meat-eaters and herbivores will leave this place feeling satisfied.
Jungle Cafe is where you’ll find some of the neighbourhood’s best vegetarian and vegan dishes. They’re dedicated to offering the community nutritious, wholesome plant-based food at a reasonable price.
Spend the afternoon at vintage haven, Dobbin St. Vintage Co-op, when looking to consume in the most conscious of fashions. Here you’ll discover goods from the 1960s and 1970s. Don’t just take our word for it though, a quick scan of their Instagram page will convince you.
Southern Italian fare is mixed with American influences at the picture-perfect Milk and Rose Bistro. The weekend brunch is what attracts many to this local spot, as do the playful options like coconut and lime french toast, chicken and pancake and pork ribs with corn on the cob.
Greenpoint is known to have a high population of Polish-Americans, hence why there are many restaurants to choose from when it comes to pierogies. Karczma is probably the most popular with its old country farmhouse décor, complemented by a waitstaff dressed in traditional folk garb.
Acre is a departure from the Polish traditions of Greenpoint. This health-conscious go-to serves Japanese-inspired, hearty cuisine that will fill you up with creative and delicious dishes.
The Greenpoint Gallery is a non-profit arts organization focused on showcasing and supporting emerging artists. Founded in 2004 by local artist and musician Shawn James, the space offers classes, lectures, career counseling, and an affordable exhibition space.
Perhaps the most famous of BK’s exports, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is the natural, artisanal ice creamery which now has three brick and mortar stores in the borough, two in Manhattan, and three in Los Angeles. Their vegan ice cream is made with a mix of house-made cashew cream, organic coconut milk, organic cane sugar, pure cocoa butter, and organic carob bean. #YUM.
Beacon's Closet is the second-hand shop that is notoriously picky about what they buy. You’ll find beautiful modern and vintage pieces from high-end brands, although be prepared to rummage through the never-ending racks.
Homecoming is a beautiful little spot selling plants and greenery, as well as a selection of handmade home goods. And their in-house coffee shop serves espressos and pastries to tempt you while you browse.