Post Overview: Best restaurants in DUMBO
DUMBO (which stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Brooklyn. You’d be correct in assuming the neighborhood also has a few charming restaurants.
But the restaurants in DUMBO don’t just look pretty – they deliver the goods too. The neighborhood is home to some of the best dining in NYC, whether it’s for a date night, a meal with friends or a just-because indulgence.
These joints are just as diverse as the borough itself, and the eclectic cuisines create a melting pot you’ll keep coming back to for seconds. I say this from first hand experience – I try to visit the neighborhood once a week just to try something new.
But hey – enough of the small talk. Let’s cut to the chase and chat about the best restaurants in DUMBO.
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Best Restaurants in DUMBO
#20. Time Out Market
The Time Out Market is a collection of some of the best restaurants in DUMBO. By bringing 21+ unique dining experiences together under one roof, Time Out Market has made choosing a place to eat so much easier.
Expect to find loads of New York City’s most popular eateries at the market. Jacob’s Pickles, Mr. Taka Ramen and Clinton St. Baking Company are clear standouts.
You’ll find everything from small bites to desserts and even a rooftop bar. Not to mention the Time Out Market is located in a picturesque neighborhood and provides stellar views of the East River, could it get dreamier than that?!
All this to say, if you’re searching for the best restaurants in DUMBO you’ll be hard pressed to find better options than at the Time Out Market.
Address: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States
#19. Shake Shack
Shake Shack is a great reminder that not all the best restaurants in DUMBO need to break the bank. Not only is the burger joint conveniently located near the waterfront, it’s one of the more affordable spots to grab a bite.
If this is your first time visiting New York City, consider eating here one of the best things to do in NYC (it’s the standard NYC initiation, I don’t make the rules).
There is no debate between Shake Shack and In-N-Out burger, I don’t understand the comparison. The burgers and fries here are so much better. If you want to let your hair down, try a milkshake, they’re delicious …. or so I hear. ?
Address: 2 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#18. Height’s Falafel
Quaint and inexpensive, Heights Falafel is a reminder that you don’t have to max out your credit card to eat well in NYC. It’s one of the best restaurants in DUMBO and makes mouth watering Middle-Eastern fare.
Chicken and beef shawarma sandwiches clock in at under $10 and baba ganoush falafel plates are under $12. The hummus is nothing to scoff at either, maybe the best I’ve ever had!
I was tempted to gatekeep Heights Falafel, it’s one of the best restaurants in DUMBO that somehow manages to stay under the radar. But I knew I’d be doing everyone a disservice, a joint this good deserves to be shared with the world.
Address: 78 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#17. Em Vietnamese Bistro
Clean, bright and charming Em Vietnamese Bistro is the kind of place perfect for a date. The food is sure to get conversation flowing because it’s near impossible to not be giddy.
The Vietnamese Bistro is one of the best restaurants in DUMBO, and its menu is made up of home run after home run. Pho, bo kho and hu tieu will leave you either proud of being Vietnamese or wishing you were.
There is one thing to note though – Em Vietnamese Bistro has two different menus so check before making the visit. The lunch menus during the week and weekend are different, and the dinner menu is unique as well.
Address: 57 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#16. Bread & Spread
Sometimes simple things done well become great things, and Bread & Spread is the perfect example. The sandwich shop isn’t doing rocket science or curing a complex disease, they’re making sandwiches – but damn they’re good.
Their secret isn’t a secret at all. Bread & Spreads uses fresh, local ingredients whose flavors are allowed to shine through with every bite. They make classic breakfast sandwiches, banh mi sandwiches and regular lunch sandwiches.
And as one of the best restaurants in DUMBO, Bread & Spread has amassed a loyal following of locals who can’t get enough.
I’m proud to say I’m a part of this growing foodie-frenzy, and am addicted to the porchetta sandiwch which comes with pork belly, garlic, fennel seed, pickled red onions, arugula, red pepper jam and aged provolone (I’ll take two, please).
Address: 151 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#15. Bevacco
Every list of the best restaurants in any city will include at least one Italian joint, and that’s because those fellas can cook!
Bevacco fills that role on this list of the best restaurants in DUMBO. It’s a lively, warm neighborhood joint that makes no frills quality Italian fare.
The lasagna, bolognese, carbonara pizza are all heavy-hitters. No matter what you do though – don’t forget to order a glass of wine.
If the weather is nice I’d suggest requesting a table outside. Henry Street is ripe for people watching and the trees provide a charming canopy, making this one of the best restaurants in DUMBO for outdoor dining.
Address: 60 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#14. Seamore’s
Native New Yorker and TV host Michael Chernow founded Seamore’s in 2015 after noticing a need for fresh seafood in NYC. For a city surrounded by water most of the seafood was shipped in, and Seamores aimed to change that.
Most of the fish used at Seamore’s is caught on the East Coast 24-48 hours before it hits your plate. The sheer freshness is why I consider Seamore’s one of the best restaurants in DUMBO.
From fish tacos to lobster benedict, you’d be surprised with the amount of seafood you can incorporate into a meal. If someone in your party isn’t fond of the ocean there’s no need to leave, there are traditional dishes as well.
This is also one of the best restaurants in DUMBO to score a great happy hour deal! Weekdays from 3pm to 6pm, folks can enjoy $1.50 oysters along with select beers, wines and mixed drinks for under $10.
Address: 66 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#13. Dawn’s Til Dusk
So you just walked across the Brooklyn Bridge and need a spot to rest your legs and refuel? I got you covered!
Dawn’s Til Dusk (also known as just Dawn’s) is one of the cutest restaurants in DUMBO. It’s located just a short walk away from the Brooklyn Bridge so it’s a perfect pit-stop after the trek.
While the place is more a cafe, I still consider it one of the best restaurants in DUMBO for breakfast. Offering sandwiches, salads and other quick bites, the adorable setting makes it a memorable dining spot.
The charming corner lot creates the ideal scene for people watching while chowing down on a breakfast sandwich. It also doesn’t hurt that Dawn’s has a small selection of irresistible baked goods, including mouthwatering cookies.
There’s a cookie called the Judith which happens to be gluten-free and vegan that I dream of often! It’s a coconut, toffee mix that’s so good you forget that it’s vegan.
Address: 33 Main St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#12. Gran Eléctrica
Mexican food is a Godsend, and one of the best restaurants in DUMBO is Gran Eléctrica, a Mexican restaurant.
It uses ingredients sourced from local markets and makes tortillas fresh daily, hand pressed by talented cooks. The menu pays homage to Mexico by serving delicious tacos, quesadillas and (tasty) margaritas.
And if you want one of the best restaurants in DUMBO where you can have some drinks, Gran Eléctrica has an impressive selection of mezcal and tequila. If you’re new to the world of Mexican spirits consider ordering a flight, otherwise the drink menu can be overwhelming!
I’ll also give one last tid-bit, Gran Eléctrica is one of the most popular restaurants in DUMBO so if you have the ability to, I encourage reservations.
Address: 5 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#11. Kogane Ramen
You can walk by Kogane Ramen a hundred times before stopping by to try it yourself, but I’m here to stop that from happening. You need to try this DUMBO restaurant ASAP!
The ramen is homemade, daily and trust me, it makes a difference. None of that pre-packaged stuff around here folks, Kogane is looking to satisfy.
You can’t go wrong with the classic tonkotsu, but if you’re feeling adventurous you can order the ramen burger. It’s made with angus beef, mixed greens, tomato, teriyaki sauce and ramen buns.
Plus the inside of the restaurant is homey and warm, perfect for a rainy day or a casual date.
Address: 76 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#10. Westville
If you’re a health-nut looking for the best restaurants in DUMBO then Westville has to be at the top of your list.
Westville’s menu is compiled of options for people with all sorts of dietary restrictions. Vegans, vegetarians and folks who enjoy eating out but still want to eat clean are all welcome here.
This DUMBO restaurant serves classic American-fare like salads, burgers and hotdogs. The brunch here is also worth making a detour for. I recommend ordering the California Benedict which is your typical eggs and Benedict but with hash browns instead of English muffins.
Westville also has a charming outdoor patio that fills up quickly during the warmer months. It’s one of the best restaurants in DUMBO to meet up with friends afterwork for a casual hang.
Address: 81 Washington St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#9. Noodle Pudding
Noodle Pudding is a family friendly restaurant staffed by kind employees and serving generous portions of appetizing pasta dishes. They don’t have a website so you’ll have to trust me when I say Noodle Pudding is one of the best restaurants in DUMBO.
It’s the kind of joint you want to say salud every five minutes, clinking glasses of wine in between every bite. The white table cloths show a level of respect to their clients but it’s far from pretentious or opulent.
If you want to see what all the fuss is about make sure you bring cash, since Noodle Pudding doesn’t take any credit cards. They also don’t take reservations and as one of the best restaurants in DUMBO you’re all but guaranteed a wait during the dinner rush.
Address: 38 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#8. Vinegar Hill House
Rustic and charming, Vinegar Hill House is one of the prettiest restaurants in DUMBO. They have a reclaimed-wood type aesthetic and have a back patio that’s equally alluring.
And the food is just as appetizing as the restaurant is picturesque. The menu is on the smaller side (which is a tell-tale sign that it’ll all be tasty) and is made up of pasta, fish, meats and sides.
But (to me) the end all be all sourdough pancakes sold during weekend brunch. Each season brings a new flavor (it’s currently cherry & strawberry), and is cooked to a custard-like consistency. Every once in a while you’ll get a crispy bite that adds an extra layer of texture and will have you doing a happy dance.
The pancake alone makes it one of the best restaurants in DUMBO, but luckily Vinegar Hill House also has the full package.
Address: 72 Hudson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#7. Lucky Rabbit Noodles
No bigger than the box Amazon delivers your paper towels in, Lucky Rabbit Noodles is small but mighty. It’s one of the best restaurants in DUMBO, making Asian-inspired fare.
The headlining dishes include homemade dumplings, garlic fried rice and chili chicken. Best part? Lucky Rabbit Noodles is also one of the most affordable restaurants in DUMBO.
You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to enjoy the gastronomical masterpiece, most plates are $15 and under.
The one caveat is that Lucky Rabbit Noodles doesn’t have a ton of seating. Matter of fact – there aren’t any tables, just counters so worst case just order your food to go and eat it on the East River waterfront!
Address: 140 Plymouth St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#6. AlMar
The quintessential DUMBO restaurant, AlMar brings together the worlds of modern, sun soaked eateries and institutions for gastronomical ingenuity.
Ever since AlMar opened their doors in 2011 they’ve been amassing a steady stream of loyal customers. Often attracted by the charming setting, folks will agree it’s one of the best restaurants in DUMBO after trying the food.
The Italian joint makes savory pastas that’ll put you in a food coma but if you come for lunch order the burger, trust me. Made with wagyu beef, fontina cheese, horseradish cream sauce between brioche buns you’ll want to go back and kiss the chef’s hands.
Or you always have the option of brunch too. Who doesn’t love carbs to start your weekend off on the right foot?
Address: 111 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#5. Cecconi’s
Cecconis is a worldwide icon for class and prestige, with its flagship location in London. They also have outposts in Miami, Istanbul, Barcelona and Berlin.
The location in Brooklyn is one of the best restaurants in DUMBO, perfectly dim lit and intimate. If I was hoping to be proposed to (which I’m not, I’m happily married) Cecconis would be one of my first choice spots.
The food revolves around Italian delicacies including handmade pastas that will put you in a food coma unlike anything you’ve experienced. There is also seafood and pizzas available that are both filling and delicious.
For those of you interested, SoHo House Members and Friends receive a generous 20% off all food and drink from 4pm Sunday until Wednesday. For anyone curious, a membership to the SoHo House will offer access to exclusive clubs and in this case discounts.
Address: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#4. Luke’s Lobster Rolls
Opened in NYC in 2009, Luke’s Lobster is a family owned business bringing Maine style lobster rolls to the masses. It didn’t take long for the small shack to expand, now operating in ten states and being responsible for one of the best restaurants in DUMBO.
I know seafood can be pricey, but believe me the premium is worth it. By owning their own seafood purchasing business Luke’s Lobster is able to buy directly from trusted fishermen and you can taste the quality with every bite.
The quality leaves little room to wonder Luke’s Lobster is one of the best restaurants in DUMBO. They don’t skimp on the actual seafood and the menu should come with a warning label that says, caution: highly addictive.
The nationally recognized lobster rolls are the star of the show, but the menu has a few other options. There’s also crab and shrimp rolls, as well as lobster mac & cheese and an amazing clam chowder.
Address: 11 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#3. Superfine
The farm-to-table movement is one that’s steadily picked up steam over the last few years, as it should. I mean who doesn’t want fresher, tastier and local ingredients?
Maybe that’s why Superfine is one of the best restaurants in DUMBO. The restaurant gains inspiration from the most popular cuisines across the globe including Latin, Mediterranean and Asian.
They ingeniously put together dashing plates full of colorful foods that taste even better than they look.
And the exuberant atmosphere is addicting, too. Housed in a former warehouse, Superfine is able to host live music every Sunday and adorns their walls with art made by local creatives.
Superfine is one of the best restaurants in DUMBO thanks to the food and friendly, community vibe.
Address: 126 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#2. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
Grimaldi’s is a historic pizzeria that can be found under the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s also one of the best restaurants in DUMBO for those looking for a traditional New York pie.
Patsy Grimaldi started making pizza in 1945 under the tutelage of his uncle, Pasquale “Patsy” Lanciri, at the original Harlem location of Patsy’s Pizzeria (one of the best pizzerias in New York City). He then opened his own pizzeria, Grimaldi’s, in 1990 and began serving some of the best pizza Brooklyn has seen.
They have a 3-story restaurant that oozes old school charm. From the plaid tablecloths to the enormous windows, it’s a can’t-miss experience for anyone in search of famous Brooklyn pizza.
Although the pizzeria has since changed ownership and Patsy Grimaldi now owns a new one (which we’ll cover shortly), Grimaldi’s pizzeria is still churning out some of the best coal-fired brick oven pizza in Brooklyn and considered one of the best restaurants in DUMBO.
Address: 1 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#1. Juliana’s
Juliana’s Pizza is the one NYC pizza joint I return to time and time again without loss of enthusiasm. It consistently hits the spot and it’s one of those restaurants in DUMBO you just know won’t disappoint.
Julianna’s history is interesting in and of itself. The founder, Patsy Grimaldi, also founded legendary Grimaldi’s Pizzeria. He sold that establishment and opened Juliana’s two decades later right next to Grimaldi’s!
Since then, there’s a constant debate between who has the best pizza. It’s impossible to judge because the lines at both pizza joints stretch the block (visit both and choose for yourself!).
For me personally, nothing tops Juliana’s white pie. The fresh ingredients shine through in the most memorable ways. The crust is perfectly thin — just enough to provide a delightful foundation without intruding. Oh, and don’t even get me started on the sauces! Everything feels like it was picked the morning of.
Perhaps Juliana’s success can be attributed to their hand-built coal fired ovens (the first commissioned in NYC in over 50 years).
Locals Tip: Since Juliana’s is considered to be one of the best restaurants in DUMBO I suggest arriving as soon as doors open to avoid a 1+ hour line.
Address: 19 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Quick recap of the best restaurants in DUMBO, Brooklyn
- Juliana’s
- Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
- Superfine
- Luke’s Lobster Rolls
- Cecconi’s
- AlMar
- Lucky Rabbit Noodles
- Vinegar Hill House
- Noodle Pudding
- Westville
- Kogane Ramen
- Gran Eléctrica
- Dawn’s Til Dusk
- Seamore’s
- Bevacco
- Bread & Spread
- Em Vietnamese Bistro
- Heights Falafel
- Shake Shack
- Time Out Market
Where to eat in DUMBO (Helpful Map)
And there you have it friends, the best restaurants in DUMBO according to yours truly. As always, don’t hesitate to let us know if we missed anything.
Cheers!
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