Placed at the edge of where Brooklyn meets Manhattan (or as close as possible), Downtown Brooklyn may feel similar to many business hubs in Manhattan, but it retains its charm and Brooklyn feel in its own way.
Bordered from east to west with Navy Street to Cadman Plaza W and North to South with the East River to Atlantic Avenue, Downtown Brooklyn encompasses well over 5 parks and several business centers.
Accessibility
Traveling to and from Downtown Brooklyn is, honestly, not an issue. With pretty much every subway line available, it is extremely accessible to commute in and out of Downtown Brooklyn. The (2, 3, 4, 5, R) trains go horizontally throughout the neighborhood while the (A, C, B, D, F, N, Q) trains go vertically (or somewhat vertically, maybe diagonally). The (B32, B43, & B62) buses will provide simple travel vertically in the area while the (B24 & B48) buses will be there to take you further into Brooklyn.
Lifestyle
Make no mistake, Downtown Brooklyn is definitely a business hub. You’ll find men and women decked out in their suits and dresses as they go to work, eat lunch, and do adult things. Many compare Downtown Brooklyn to Manhattan’s Fidi since when you’re walking around the business center, you can tell; therefore, the day may get extremely busy with heavy foot traffic but during the night, the streets begin to quiet down.
However, despite the suits and ties, you’ll still find the occasional sweat pants and snapbacks. Expect to see a well-balanced mix of business and pleasure. You will find business women sitting on the steps of the town hall enjoying a sandwich from a local cafe shop as a father is walking his very well dressed french bulldog.
Restaurants & Bars
It may be all business but there are some winning restaurants here. Junior’s Restaurant being one. While the savory menu of appetizers and entrees are pretty spectacular, Junior’s Restaurant‘s popularity comes from its world renowned desserts. With many reviewing the strawberry cheesecake to be the best in the world, come for the desserts and stay forever. For a little more class with your dining occasion, Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare will sure impress your tinder dates or your girlfriend’s parents. For a more affordable yet still delicious choice, Bedouin Tent Restaurant will provide everything you need in terms of Middle Eastern food.
Drinks are everywhere (or kinda) in Downtown Brooklyn. For some fantastic grub with your Tequila, Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar will be the best choice. With some of the “best nachos” and some great Brooklyn Tacos, I know this place is known for their Tequilas, but their food is amazing. For cocktail choices, Bijan‘s happy hour is legendary and somewhat memorable (considering you didn’t drink a little too much). Myrtle and Gold is also a fantastic choice for those looking for an experience (the Myrtle Punch is something to brag about).
Cost
Compared to Brooklyn as a whole, Downtown Brooklyn does cost quite a few pennies more. With Brooklyn’s median rent being $2,500, Downtown Brooklyn towers over its borough to cost $3,580 per month. Accounting for the plethora of shopping areas, high foot traffic, and Junior’s restaurant, you are definitely paying for the neighborhood.
Final Verdict
What Downtown Brooklyn lacks in nightlife and entertainment, it makes up with in exquisite restaurants, quick commutes, and some of the most “Brooklyn” people you will meet. Come for the easy commute and stay for the business empire of Brooklyn.
