To anyone who doesn’t live nearby, the prospect of Gowanus can be a bit daunting. But it shouldn’t be, and here are some bars, bakeries and restaurants that make this neighborhood so worthwhile.
Four & Twenty Blackbirds
439 3rd Ave.
Everyone loves pie, and everyone especially loves the pie at Four & Twenty Blackbirds, which is simultaneously inventive and classic. There’s good reason it’s been around for a decade now.
Freek’s Mill
285 Nevins St.
Local, seasonal, and intensely inviting and warm, with a happy hour Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and weekends with $2 off drinks to pair with the comforting food.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BvFFe_2Bw13/
Insa
328 Douglass St.
Korean barbecue with a side of excellent cocktails and a chance of karaoke. What’s not to love?
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk7357AFl1Z/
Lavender Lake
383 Carroll St.
A huge yard makes this a warm-weather birthday stalwart, but it’s also perfect for everyday sipping along with a small menu of bar fare.
Littleneck
288 3rd Ave.
Lobster rolls, a raw bar—with clams, of course—and more makes this a go-to spot for whenever that seafood craving hits.
Parklife
636 Degraw St.
From the folks behind the excellent event space Littlefield is Parklife, with a shockingly great Mexican kitchen and a solid bar. Great for partying before or after events there or at nearby the Bell House.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bq-u1gvBrLK/
Runner & Stone
285 3rd Ave.
Since 2012, this has been a neighborhood spot for great house-baked breads and seasonal New American cuisine.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BzY1qV1lFop/
Strong Rope Brewery
574 President St.
Breweries abound in this area of Brooklyn, of course, and Strong Rope has much to recommend it specifically, with its focus on both American and British styles.
Threes Brewing
333 Douglass St.
As noted: There are many breweries over here, but Threes has become a classic of the Brooklyn craft beer scene and plays host to frequent food pop-ups.
