GUIDES

Prospect Heights

By
Coolstuff Team
January 30, 2026

In many ways, Prospect Heights serves as a grand entrance to Grand Army Plaza. As you walk down Vanderbilt and make your way towards the arch and the park, you’ll pass some of the best New York City has to offer as far as local businesses go. This beloved neighborhood, like every corner of New York, has seen a lot of change (both good and bad) over the years, meaning we felt it was overdue for an update!

EAT

Little Egg

Our go-to brunch spot in the neighborhood is always Little Egg. From their famous brekkie sammie to some of the best bakery treats around, it’s always a crow pleaser. They don’t take reservations (for tables smaller than 6), so make sure you get there with time to spare waiting for a table, or be early!

Leland Eating and Drinking House

On the corner of Dean and Underhill lies Leland: a neighborhood restaurant that is both accessible and celebratory. On the menu, natural wines and fantastic cocktails compliment the "New York Mediterranean" fare they serve up. Wether you stop by for a bustling Sunday brunch or a relaxed weeknight dinner with friends, Leeland is a hub for Prospect Heights locals in the know.

Formosa Dumplings

Bushwick-based Taiwanese spot recently opened their second location on the east end of Prospect Heights. Expect a large selection of dumplings (our favorite are the chive and pork dumplings.) Plus an order of popcorn chicken...and Taiwanese sausages.

Radio Bakery

The famed Brooklyn bakery’s second location in Prospect Heights is almost as popular as its first in Greenpoint. We dream of their scallion focaccia with cream cheese often…and it’s quickly become the spot we turn to for holiday dessert pick-ups. Make this part of your weekend jaunt around the neighborhood for some seriously good pastry. 

Tom’s Restaurant

The neighborhood’s diner! Grab a stack of their legendary pancakes with a side of sausage. It’s everything you want a diner to be and more - with a perfect lime rickey!

Gertie

The modern New York bagel shop and deli, has made moves from their Wburg cafe space, to a new home in Prospect Heights. Its 2.0 iteration returns to its counter service deli roots serving freshly baked sourdough bagels, sandwiches and salads with house-smoked fish and meats, pastries, and, of course, matzo ball soup and latkes.

King David Taco

You’ve had these tacos at their taco truck around the city or at coffee shops like Hungry Ghost, but nothing is better than the real thing. At their first (& only) permanent location, you can find your favorite breakfast tacos & more like queso and special tacos. In the summer, their outdoor patio is where we want to be 24/7 - queso cup in hand. 

Nourish Thai

You always need a good staple take-out spot in every neighborhood - Nourish Thai is that & more because their dining room is somewhere that is more than just for to-go food. Order or dine-in for our favorite pad thai in Prospect Heights. 

Ogliastro Pizza Bar

For solid pizza with fresh and gourmet toppings look no further than Ogliastro. This is the kind of pizza spot that is definitely best enjoyed when dining in, where you can enjoy a cold beer or a glass of natural wine.

Sofreh

Persian hotspot, Sofreh, has been a neighborhood anchor since it opened in 2018. From a modern duck-based take on Fesenjan to saffron rice, there are many MANY dishes at Sofreh that we hope never leave the menu. PS for your daytime fix, check out Sofreh Cafe across Flatbush Ave.

Alta Calidad

Beachy, fresh Michelin-rated Mexican in a bright and sunny space along Prospect Heights’ Vanderbilt Avenue.  Don’t skip on fresh queso fundido, ANY of the tacos, and their classic margarita. 

Ozakaya

A perfect spot for sushi in the neighborhood, Ozakaya is serving up flavorful rolls, the best miso soup we’ve ever had, and Japanese Curry Dishes. Make a reservation and stop by on a Wednesday to spice up your week.

DRINK

Gold Star Beer Counter

In our opinion, this is one of the best spots for a beer in Brooklyn. Gold Star always has great vibes & delicious pours of draft. We love snagging an outdoor table in their sidewalk seating for a casual drink with friends. 

Farm One

Part brewery, part microgreen farm, Farm One has the feel of a vegan community space a la 1997. Sure, we were toddlers then, but when there’s a feeling that strong, you know it when you see it. Keep an eye out for their stacked event series - we recently attended a bonsai workshop and had a great time! 

Canyon Coffee

This (soon to open) NY outpost of LA’s Canyon Coffee, is a much needed spot on Vanderbilt. We’re already lovers of their coffee, so we’re excited to make it part of our repertoire on a walk around PH.

Ciao, Gloria

While writing this guide, we were reminded of how many great bakeries there are in the neighborhood! Ciao, Gloria is one of those neighborhood staples beloved by the community, for good reason. Their sandwiches and cookies (get the “Glori-o!) in their sun-filled space, is a combination that just feels right.

SHOP

The Analog Stationer

If you’re in need of an ink restock, a new sketchbook or want to leave it up to fate and discovery, Analog Stationer is your spot. This little space is packed full of Japanese watercolors, the perfect card and everything in between.

1 of a Find Vintage

This shop is such a fun vintage thrifting experience. Head over for women’s clothing, cute homewares &&& more!

Unnamable Books

One of the best used & new bookstores in the city. Stop by for an unexpected find in this small gem of a shop. Pro-tip - keep it circular and sell your books here for store credit. 

R&D Goods

This is one of those shops where you can really find something for anyone in your life. On a recent pop into the store, we found the perfect vintage glasses, non-alc wine, and lemon squeezer for a wedding gift. Add it to your gift shop rounds!

SEE/DO

Brooklyn Museum

The Brooklyn Museum is maybe the most underrated museum in the city. We love their free first Saturday’s full of music and celebration at the start of each month. Don’t forget to “exit through the gift shop” for some seriously great limited edition art pieces and gifts. 

Brooklyn Botanical Garden

No matter the season, it’s always a great idea to spend an afternoon at the BBG. While Spring is our favorite season to visit (we go weekly for the blooming flowers!), Summer also offers so many fun opportunities to become a member - with member jazz nights, picnic evenings &&& more. Support green spaces!

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