How to Enjoy Dumbo Like a Local

If Times Square had a sister in Brooklyn, it would be Dumbo. With its cobblestone streets and scenic views of the Manhattan skyline, the neighborhood has become a destination for tourists and locals alike, but especially tourists (or New Yorkers who only come to Brooklyn twice a year).

Legend has it that Dumbo, which stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, got its name from tenants who wanted to keep developers away by making the area sound silly and unappealing. This was in the ‘70s; the old factories and warehouses eventually converted into luxury lofts and trendy art galleries and today, Dumbo is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Brooklyn with some apartments going as high as $11,000 a month.

Luckily you don’t have to live there to enjoy the scenic views, charming cafés and art spaces. And while Dumbo often gets passed on as touristy (it does, after all, offer overpriced boat rides to the city), it is filled with gems that don’t make it on the popular lists of places to check out. Beyond the shiny attractions like the Brooklyn Heights Promenade or the high-end cafés right on the river, there are a lot of places that don’t get the credit they deserve.

So here’s how to enjoy Dumbo like the locals do!

Pedro’s Mexican Bar & Restaurant

Pedro’s is your late lunch, 4 pm spot after you spent the day frolicking on the cobblestone streets. Although it’s located on Jay Street, one of the most visited strips of Dumbo, the place is unpretentious with authentic Mexican food at a budget-friendly price. We’ve learned that it’s best to go there when it’s not too busy so you don’t become hangry waiting longer for your meal. Chris and I once had the Huevos a la Mexican Burrito and didn’t even realize it was vegetarian….if this tells you anything about how good it is. Try any of their huevos rancheros plates and you’ll be glad you did!

Cecconi's

Happy hour at Cecconi’s sounds like a no-brainer! We’ve only been there for drinks and we can definitely see why this place is popular. Service is quick and attentive (at the bar at least), drinks are delicious and the decor is very elegant. We have yet to try the food, but judging from our happy hour experience, the pasta and pizza must be pretty good!

A.I.R. Gallery

This place was an accidental find, but we’re so glad we discovered it! There’s something about small galleries that make you feel so connected to the local culture. This one presents artworks by underrepresented female artists in a very unpretentious environment. I love supporting organizations that look to give back to their community, and this place is one of them.

Luke's Lobster

Random seafood cravings anyone? Luke’s Lobster is where you go to for a splurge that’s totally worth it. We actually think their shrimp rolls taste better than their lobster rolls (unpopular opinion), but both things are really fresh and delicious. You won’t regret going there, but your wallet might if you start doing it every week (because you’ll be tempted to).

Ample Hills Creamery

Before you dismiss this as just another ice cream chain, hear us out. The Dumbo location is not only a vibe (ice cream with a side of Manhattan views), but the experience is pure joy. Their staff is extremely nice and their ice creams (and milkshakes) are delicious. There’s a reason the line typically starts outside! Prices are higher than usual, but it’s totally worth the try for what you get and how good it tastes.

St Ann's Warehouse

Few things sound better than date night at St Ann’s Warehouse. For a full experience of Dumbo, try ending your visit with a show there. We recently saw a musical performance featuring the B-Side and it was something to remember. It tackled political issues in the most subtle way, giving a glimpse into life in prison through the interpretation of songs from prisoners in Texas State. It was the most beautiful thing we’ve heard all year, and while it’s no longer at St Ann’s, there are plenty other productions not to miss.

And there you have it: your perfect day in Dumbo! Start with some quality time outdoors at the Brooklyn Bridge Park. Get cultured at A.I.R Gallery. Have a glorious burrito lunch at Pedro’s. Grab drinks at Cecconi’s. Walk around and finish strong with a performance at St Ann’s Warehouse.

While we planned the best time for you, we encourage you to do some exploration of your own! Dumbo can be full of surprises such as random street fairs, pop-up exhibitions and rotating sidewalk artists. So next time you’re there, make sure to put your phone down, get a little lost and make a new discovery. After all, that’s how the best stories start!