5 Things To Do And See In Brooklyn Heights

Nestled between the Brooklyn Bridge and Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn Heights in NYC is a fairy tale enclave of cobbled streets, Victorian homes, and stately churches. A stroll through the neighborhood’s main and residential streets is an opportunity to step back in time and admire the photo-worthy views, as well as to enjoy the many unique restaurants, cafés, and destination attractions the neighborhood has to offer. We check out the five top things to do when in the area.

1. The Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Park, Bridge

The Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers site-seers stunning vistas of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan’s peaking urban landscape on the other side of the Hudson River. A walk along the serene, wide breadth of pathway, lined with benches, also affords voyeurs an opportunity to peek inside the grandiose mansions nestled behind shady trees and trim gardens, opposite the river.

2. Teresa's Restaurant

Restaurant, French, Polish

Founded by brother and sister team Bogdan and Teresa Brozowski in 1989, Teresa’s Restaurant is a Polish food lover’s paradise. Brunch features sweet blintzes oozing with shredded apples, ricotta cheese, or cherries. Staples like French toast, pancakes, eggs and bagel with lox are also offered, but lovers of decadent indulgences will appreciate the Babka French toast and orange ricotta pancakes. Savory lunch fare includes the Polish platter: an ‘eat until you explode’ menagerie of stuffed cabbage, sauerkraut sautéed with gravy, roasted kielbasa, and steamed potato pirogues. Not to be missed, most entrees are in the 10 to 15 dollar range.

3. Plymouth Church

Building, Church

Statue of Henry Ward Beecher Outside of Plymouth Church

Situated at the corner of Hicks and Cranberry Streets, this historic edifice has hosted such famous visitors as Abraham Lincoln, Sojourner Truth, and Frederick Douglass. The first preacher was Henry Ward Beecher, wife of the famous author of Uncle Tom’s Cabinand a grand statue of the man greets visitors from the top of a lush and idyllic garden. Inside, the exquisitely maintained foyer hosts beautiful portraits, and mahogany and marble abound. The main sanctuary is a breathtaking example of neoclassical architecture. Visitors may wander the grounds and building. Helpful volunteers are on hand to answer questions and provide fascinating historical tidbits.

4. Iris Café

Bar, Bistro, Cafe, American, Irish

Tucked away on a hidden side street between Joralemon and State Streets, Iris Caféis a local gem of a bistro, serving up ‘Noveau American’cuisine since 2009. From the tree-shadowed, turquoise exterior, to the gilt-mirrored, wood sculpted interior, visitors will be charmed by the elegant, yet friendly feel to this tasteful – and tasty – find. Favorites include the avocado toast, the smoked salmon, and eternally fresh brew of La Columbe coffee. A full bar, with a wide selection of wines and cocktails are also available.

5. Jack the Horse Tavern

Restaurant, American

Jack the Horse Tavern has been a neighborhood favorite for the past eight years. The full bar offers an array of wines and cocktails, but regulars swear by the Old Fashioned. Warm and welcoming, with a friendly staff and cushioned, bench seating, the tavern also offers a full menu featuring everything from chicken to chops, but the baked macaroni and cheese has a loyal following, making it a crisp and savory destination dish.

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