Red Hook, Brooklyn

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Red Hook’s days as a bustling port and shipyard are over, but it still retains a charming seaside vibe complete with cobbled stone streets, 19th-Century warehouses and sweeping views of New York harbor. Not to mention the high concentration of fantastic restaurants, distilleries and a winery. And Ikea! Drive, bike or take the F to Smith-9th Street for a perfect day of eating and wandering.

Eat

Hometown Bar-B-Que

Southern style pit-smoked barbecue served in a cavernous hall. You line up at the counter, get your tray full of meat and then find a spot to enjoy it. The line can be long, but there’s a bar and live music to enjoy while you wait. Be sure to get the brisket.

Fort Defiance

My favorite for a cozy brunch or lunch. American classics paired with really fantastic cocktails.

Brooklyn Ice House

Friendly dive bar with great food—try the pulled pork sandwich and relax in the backyard.

Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pie

Freshly-baked key lime pies and “Swingles”—chocolate-dipped pie on a stick.

Baked

An array of must-try treats: whoopie pies, Brookies, bars, and cookies—order them all.

Somtum Der

Isan-style Thai food in a cozy setting.

Brooklyn Crab

Seafood shack favorites with sunset views of the Statue of Liberty.

The Good Fork

Korean-inspired menu in a cozy setting.

Red Hook Lobster Pound

Lobster and seafood shack classics.

Drink

Sunny’s

Classic cozy bar with live bluegrass music on weekends.

Van Brunt Stillhouse

Local distillery with whiskey, bourbon, moonshine, and rum tastings—plus cocktails and beer in a cozy tasting room.

Other Half Brewing

Pilgrimage-worthy IPA spot—grab cans or a growler to go.

Red Hook Winery

Tastings and tours featuring wines from the North Fork and Finger Lakes.