Jordan Bentley Eats in New York: 5 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Bay Ridge

Must-try foods in Bay Ridge

• Brussels Sprouts with Tahini and Pomegranate
  Brussels Sprouts with Tahini and PomegranateWhile many places serve Brussels sprouts, the version at Tanoreen is legendary. They are flash-fried to a perfect crisp and tossed with a tangy, nutty tahini sauce and sweet pomegranate molasses, creating a dish that local foodies consider a mandatory 'rite of passage' in Bay Ridge.
• Arancini (Rice Balls)
  Arancini (Rice Balls)A staple of the neighborhood's deep Italian roots, the arancini at Gino’s are world-class. These saffron-scented rice balls are stuffed with a rich meat ragu and peas, breaded, and fried until golden. They represent the quintessential Bay Ridge 'comfort food' that locals have ordered for decades.
• Ecuadorian Ceviche
  Ecuadorian CevicheNew for 2025/2026, the Ecuadorian street-food influence at Bar Chuzo has become a major trend. Unlike Peruvian ceviche, this version is often served in a citrusy, tomato-based broth with shrimp or fish, highlighting the neighborhood's evolving Latin culinary landscape.
• Knafeh
  KnafehThis Palestinian dessert is a masterpiece of textures: warm, melted cheese encased in shredded phyllo dough (kataifi), soaked in orange blossom syrup, and topped with crushed pistachios. It is the signature finale to any meal in the 'Little Levant' section of the neighborhood.
• Grandma Slice
  Grandma SliceFor a classic Brooklyn pizza experience, the Grandma Slice at Nino’s on 3rd is the local gold standard. It features a thin, square crust that is crunchy on the bottom, topped with hand-crushed tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a generous amount of garlic and basil.
• Lamb Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
  Lamb Shawarma with Garlic SauceBay Ridge's Middle Eastern corridor offers some of the best shawarma in New York. The lamb at Al-Aqsa or Karam is slowly roasted on a vertical spit, thinly sliced, and served in warm pita with a potent, creamy 'toum' (garlic sauce) that defines the neighborhood's aromatic 5th Avenue.

Trip guide

• About Bay Ridge
  About Bay RidgeBay Ridge, located in the southwestern corner of Brooklyn, New York, is a residential neighborhood bounded by Sunset Park, Dyker Heights, the Narrows, and the Fort Hamilton Army Base. Historical Heritage Originally inhabited by the Canarsee people, the land was settled by the Dutch in the 17th century as part of the town of New Utrecht.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Bay Ridge is during the late spring (May and June) or early fall (September and October), when mild temperatures are ideal for walking the scenic Shore Road Promenade. Visiting in the winter is also popular for the neighborhood’s famous "Dyker Heights Christmas Lights" nearby, though temperatures often drop into the 30s°F. Culinary enthusiasts should plan a trip during NYC Restaurant Week.
• Getting around
  Getting around Bay Ridge

  • NYC Subway (R Train) The R train is the primary subway line serving Bay Ridge, with major stops at 77th Street, 86th Street, and 95th Street. It provides a direct connection from Lower Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn.
  • NYC Ferry (South Brooklyn Route) The NYC Ferry's South Brooklyn route stops at the 69th Street Pier (American Veterans Memorial Pier). This scenic water commute connects Bay Ridge to Wall Street/Pier 11, DUMBO, and Sunset Park.
  • Express and Local Buses The X27 and X37 express buses provide a comfortable, seated commute directly to Midtown and Financial District Manhattan. Locally, the B63, B64, and B37 buses navigate the neighborhood's main corridors like 3rd.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Street parking is extremely limited and heavily regulated, so consider using a paid garage or booking a spot in advance to avoid costly fines.
  • Expect a standard tipping custom of 15% to 20% at seated restaurants, as it is a vital part of the local service economy.
  • Be mindful of alternate side parking rules for street cleaning, which require moving your vehicle during specific morning hours to avoid tickets.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Bay Ridge

  • Century Marketplace: The multi-million dollar redevelopment of the former Century 21 site on 86th Street is progressing into a major two-story retail and commercial hub.
  • Tanoreen Michelin Recognition: Chef Rawia Bishara’s celebrated Middle Eastern spot remains a 2026 focal point as a featured Bib Gourmand pick for NYC Winter Restaurant Week.
• Bay Ridge 5th Avenue BID↗
  Bay Ridge 5th Avenue BIDThe official site for the Bay Ridge 5th Avenue Business Improvement District, providing visitor information, local events, and a guide to dining and shopping.