Situated in the heart of Brooklyn, for many New Yorkers Bushwick is the party destination. While venues like House of Yes, Nowadays and Jupiter Disco have earned their iconic status for good reason, Bushwick is so much more. From tamale vendors to independent bookstores, Bushwick offers a diverse and vibrant tapestry of experiences. Sure, the L train may bring you here, but it’s the food, the people and the vibrant energy that will keep you coming back.
Eat Early
Start your day with the ultimate breakfast at Tico’s Cafetería, a Cuban-American gem that serves up mouthwatering Cuban sandwiches, crispy empanadas and the best cortados in town. The marinated pork, Swiss cheese and mojo sauce pressed between soft Cuban bread create the perfect crispy bite. For a twist on a classic breakfast sandwich, La Cantine, a neighbourhood luncheonette, offers a standout poblano egg and cheese sandwich on a soft brioche bun, with smoky peppers adding a kick. If a quick bite and coffee is what you’re looking for, Kings Kolache serves pastries that are a must-try: think Texas-style smoked sausage with cheddar and candied jalapeños or a sweet cheese and blueberry-filled Czech kolache. For bagel lovers, Knickerbocker Bagel is the place to go. Its hand-rolled bagels, baked fresh daily, are perfect for any New Yorker or visitor craving the ultimate breakfast bite. You can’t go wrong with the “Loxury” bagel sandwich with sliced lox, plain cream cheese, tomato, onions and capers or a classic bacon, egg and cheese on an everything bagel.
Eat Late
Bushwick’s food scene is a true melting pot, offering a taste of global flavours that reflect the neighbourhood’s rich diversity. At Sabores de Mi Tierra, a small but vibrant Colombian restaurant, the bandeja paisa—a hearty platter with rice, beans, steak, chorizo, fried egg and crispy chicharrón – is the ultimate comfort meal. Don’t forget to try its tostones and fresh fruit juices, which range from tangy to sweet. Formosa is a casual spot serving Taiwanese staples. The space is eclectic, with mismatched wooden chairs and tables, filled often with friends and solo diners enjoying delicious popcorn chicken, beef noodle soup and fried dumplings. For vegetarians and vegans, Bunna Cafe is a warm, casual neighbourhood staple, serving up comforting Ethiopian platters like misir wot (spicy red lentils) and shiro (split-pea curry) that are perfect for sharing. If you find yourself closer to Bed-Stuy, Concrete is a relaxed, family-run Sicilian eatery where Francesco, the owner, will impress you with dishes like fried pizza, Neapolitan ragù and a pistachio shrimp pasta that will leave you craving more. Don’t miss their tiramisù – it’s a must!
Drink
Bushwick’s bar scene has exploded in recent years, with new spots popping up monthly. For something truly unique, head to Kato Sake Works, a relaxed local taproom offering Brooklyn-brewed sake, live music and food pop-ups. The sake flights are a great way to experience sake master Shinobu Kato’s craft. For draft beers and cocktails, Left Hand Path is a local favourite, boasting a backyard garden and a happy-hour menu that includes cumin tamales – don’t miss them. If wine is more your style, The Ten Bells serves natural wines, cocktails and excellent tapas in a cosy, unpretentious setting. Orion Bar, a Korean-American spot, puts soju front and centre, offering unique cocktails like the soju tonic or whiskey sour alongside tasty snacks like kimchi carbonara and fried dumplings.
Do
Bushwick is home to one of the city’s most dynamic art scenes, and there’s no better place to start than the Bushwick Collective, a sprawling open-air gallery of street art featuring work from local and international artists. The murals and installations cover entire buildings and alleyways, turning the neighbourhood into a living canvas. For thrifting enthusiasts, Bushwick is a treasure trove. Whether you’re hunting for vintage clothing at L Train Vintage or quirky finds at Raccoon Thrift or Other People’s Clothes, you’re bound to score a hidden gem. Book lovers will appreciate Molasses Books, a charming second-hand bookstore with a well-curated selection of rare editions and a bar to boot – perfect for a leisurely afternoon spent flipping through pages.
Bushwick is a neighbourhood filled with creativity, community and flavour. Whether you’re coming for the food, the art or the vibrant atmosphere, you’ll find that Bushwick is much more than meets the eye – and that’s exactly why it’s worth the trip.
Secret Tip
If there is a lady selling tamales on the corner of Suydam and Knickerbocker, get some!
Fiona Mustain is a New York-based designer who loves to travel, cook and read sci-fi or fantasy novels
