First We Feast in Brooklyn, New York: 2 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Brooklyn

Must-try foods in Brooklyn

• Gluten-Free Linzer Tarts
  Gluten-Free Linzer TartsA traditional Italian-American treat from the iconic Tasty Pastry Shoppe on 13th Avenue. These shortbread-style cookies are filled with sweet raspberry jam and dusted with powdered sugar, meticulously prepared to be safe for gluten-free diets while preserving their classic buttery crumble.
• Wood-Fired Gluten-Free Margherita Pizza
  Wood-Fired Gluten-Free Margherita PizzaAvailable at local favorite A Slice of Brooklyn, this personal-sized pizza uses a specialized gluten-free dough that achieves a charred, crispy crust in a traditional wood-fired oven. It is topped with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil for a truly authentic Brooklyn experience.
• Gluten-Free Pollo Chipotle Empanadas
  Gluten-Free Pollo Chipotle EmpanadasA trending favorite from Empanada Loca, these empanadas feature a specialized gluten-free crust that is remarkably flaky. The filling consists of tender chicken in a smoky chipotle sauce, providing a spicy and savory kick that has become a local hit in 2026.
• Gluten-Free Pesto Cavatappi
  Gluten-Free Pesto CavatappiServed at the elegant Cavatappi NYC, this dish highlights the restaurant's namesake pasta in a gluten-free format. It is coated in a vibrant, house-made basil pesto with toasted pine nuts and aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, served in an intimate, upscale setting.
• Confetti Cake Slice (Gluten-Free)
  Confetti Cake Slice (Gluten-Free)A celebratory favorite from the newly expanded dessert menu at Tasty Pastry Shoppe. This moist, multi-layered vanilla cake is flecked with rainbow sprinkles and layered with smooth buttercream, proving that gluten-free desserts can be just as festive and indulgent as the originals.
• Gluten-Free Chicken Parmigiana
  Gluten-Free Chicken ParmigianaA gluten-free reimagining of a Brooklyn classic at Annabelle's Pastaria. The chicken is breaded in a seasoned gluten-free crumb, pan-fried until golden, and smothered in marinara and melted mozzarella. It is a hearty, comforting dish that locals rave about for its authentic flavor.

Trip guide

• About Brooklyn
  About BrooklynDyker Heights is a residential neighborhood in the southwest corner of Brooklyn, New York, situated on a hill between Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst. The area originated as a speculative luxury housing development in 1895, founded by Walter Loveridge Johnson. Historically, the land was part of the 1657 Dutch town of New Utrecht and remained primarily woodland and farmland until the late 19th century.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Dyker Heights is from mid-December through New Year’s Eve, when the neighborhood’s famous Christmas light displays are at their peak. Since most homeowners turn their lights on at dusk and off by 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM, aim to arrive between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM to ensure you see the full spectacle. To avoid the heaviest crowds, visit on a weekday evening rather than a weekend.
• Getting around
  Getting around Brooklyn

  • NYC Subway Take the D train to the 79th Street station or the R train to the 86th Street station. From either stop, you will need to walk approximately 15 to 20 minutes to reach the heart of the neighborhood.
  • MTA Bus Several local bus lines serve the area directly, including the B4, B16, B64, and B70. These routes offer closer drop-off points than the subway.
  • Walking and Local Travel Dyker Heights is a highly residential area with very limited street parking, especially during the holiday season. The best way to get around locally is on foot.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Avoid driving to the neighborhood during the peak holiday season as traffic is heavy and street parking is nearly impossible to find.
  • Take the D train to 79th Street or the R train to 86th Street and prepare for a 15-20 minute walk to reach the main light displays.
  • Remain on public sidewalks and avoid stepping onto private lawns or porches, as these are private residences and not a commercial attraction.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Brooklyn

  • Mixed-use development at 7924 13th Avenue, featuring new residential rentals and commercial retail space.
  • Federal modernization of the Engine 284/Ladder 149 firehouse, including advanced emergency infrastructure upgrades.
• NYC Tourism + Conventions↗
  NYC Tourism + ConventionsThe official guide to New York City's Bensonhurst neighborhood, featuring local culture, dining, and attractions in Brooklyn.