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My father-in-law is turning 80 and I'm looking to bring him into Brooklyn (which is where he grew up) for a day to see some old haunts. He moved to NJ almost 50 years ago and hasn't been back to Brooklyn for many years. I'm looking for some advice on places to see/eat and if there might also be any good tours that might fit for part of the day. Probably will wait until Spring for warmer weather.
I'm pretty comfortable with Manhattan, but I've only been to Brooklyn a couple times. Tips on getting around or any safety issues for any neighborhoods would be very helpful. He's originally from Bay Ridge (Norwegian ancestory) so a chunk of his interest will be centered there.
And another one I can't think of the name off the top of my head.
There are plenty of Norwegian Stores in Bayridge and I always found them interesting. There is a soda fountain shop closer to 86th Street and 5th I believe that was around the time your father in law would have been a child. It is very popular and it is cash only. If you want nostaglia and a possibilty he may have had a milkshake from there take him there for lunch. Again can't remember the name off the top of my head but a great place that seems to have resist time.
If you are looking for a nice steak house aside from Peter Lugers and outside of Bayridge area try:
I went there for my birthday and it was delicious!
There is also a steak house in Bayridge again I can't think of the name off the top of my head but if I recall it I will post it.
As for safety issues, you are relatively safe in Bayridge. Just remember to check where you park to avoid a ticket. I always loved walking to Owl Head Park and looking at all the houses.
Thanks! Your instinct about Indian food is spot on. Not really looking for any particular type of food, but the nostalgia factor would be great -- that soda fountain shop sounds like a great spot that he might really enjoy.
Thanks! Your instinct about Indian food is spot on. Not really looking for any particular type of food, but the nostalgia factor would be great -- that soda fountain shop sounds like a great spot that he might really enjoy.
The steak house is Embers. Good steak but the seating is a little claustrophobic. It's a shame Leske's Norwegian Bakery closed; that would have been a treat. A walk down 86th Street from Ft. Hamilton Parkway to Third Avenue might bring back some memories...maybe a brew at Sullivan's Pub or another bar that's been around a while. I'd make a point of getting as close to the Verrazano Bridge as possible. They were still building it when your father-in-law left, I think.
The steak house is Embers. Good steak but the seating is a little claustrophobic. It's a shame Leske's Norwegian Bakery closed; that would have been a treat. A walk down 86th Street from Ft. Hamilton Parkway to Third Avenue might bring back some memories...maybe a brew at Sullivan's Pub or another bar that's been around a while. I'd make a point of getting as close to the Verrazano Bridge as possible. They were still building it when your father-in-law left, I think.
Thank you! I could not remember for the life of me what it was called!
If you can wait until Sunday, May 20, there is the Norwegian Constitution Day Parade, northwards from 82nd to 67th Street, along 5th Avenue, in Bay Ridge.
My father-in-law is turning 80 and I'm looking to bring him into Brooklyn (which is where he grew up) for a day to see some old haunts. He moved to NJ almost 50 years ago and hasn't been back to Brooklyn for many years. I'm looking for some advice on places to see/eat and if there might also be any good tours that might fit for part of the day. Probably will wait until Spring for warmer weather.
I'm pretty comfortable with Manhattan, but I've only been to Brooklyn a couple times. Tips on getting around or any safety issues for any neighborhoods would be very helpful. He's originally from Bay Ridge (Norwegian ancestory) so a chunk of his interest will be centered there.
I wouldn't do the slice of Brooklyn tour. I think it would be great to just spend the afternoon in Bay Ridge. Sullivan's is a great place for a pint. You could also go to Owl's Head Park. Go for a walk and let him tell you stories. Did he ever mention other areas of Brooklyn? Assuming you'll be driving maybe you could check out Coney Island or something like that.
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I think he would have loved it!
