In My Hood: Out and About in Brooklyn, New York
Flight attendant Antonia Esst feels almost at home in Brooklyn, her absolute favorite borough in New York – and gives some personal tips for a visit
When I'm in New York, I have my routine and it starts in the morning at the Brooklyn Bridge (1). An engineering marvel, a movie star and sooo New York. Sometimes I'm there at the crack of dawn because I'm up so early due to jet lag. A magical time! The pedestrian deck is almost deserted and when the sky is clear, the sun rises right by the Statue of Liberty.
On the way there, I've already grabbed a coffee at the Bluestone Lane DUMBO Café (2). The flat white is masterfully flat-foamed, the classic avocado toast highly praised.
One of my favorite streets is Smith Street. There are friendly people from all over the world. I don't feel like a stranger and it's easy to strike up a conversation. Cool little stores (lots of vintage!) alternate with street art and cafés. I like to browse through the funky range at Unearth Vintage (3). At Baby's Buns & Buckets (4) I get what I think is the best burger in the world (seriously!) with mushrooms, lemongrass and garlic mayo. The stall in the hip Dekalb market hall is run just by women. The burgers are small and made with love, just like a baby.
In the afternoon, I like to stroll through Brooklyn Heights (5). There are the famous Brownstone houses, lots of trees and green spaces. It's an expensive area, where stars like Emily Blunt and Matt Damon live, but the atmosphere is very relaxed. I like to let these houses have an effect on me. Brooklyn Heights is like a free outdoor architecture museum.
For more information about our tips, please click on the points on the map above.
The High Tide Restaurant (6) is great for a sundowner with friends: beautiful view of the Manhattan skyline, good seafood. Nevertheless, every style is accepted, whether high-heels or jogging trousers. If you prefer something more chic, head to the wonderfully old-fashioned The River Café right by the Brooklyn Bridge. Still in the mood for nightlife? Elsewhere (7) is a super-casual place with art and live music. People in Brooklyn are relaxed and not as stressed as in Manhattan.
About:
Antonia Esst has been working for Lufthansa since 2018 and is on duty on US flights as often as possible.
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