Bushwick has a reputation for catering to the youth. Lots of places are loud, the seats may be glorified benches and dinner usually starts late. But generalizations hurt us all. Bushwick abounds with restaurants perfect for your parents, or any other responsible adults you know (maybe it’s you). These places might be slightly more expensive and a little bit quieter but the food is excellent. Bookmark this list for Father’s Day, your birthday, or job promotions.
By the Montrose L Stop:
Win Son will make your parents rethink their stance on Brooklyn. The dining room buzzes with energy as groups fight over the last pork bun (they come six to an order so make sure to call dibs on a second) and sip natural wines. To make a reservation at one of their round tables, come with a group of five or more. It gets a bit loud late at night but parents will love it for brunch or an earlier dinner.
By the Morgan L Stop:
Guadalupe Inn, by the Morgan Stop, offers live music on Saturday nights and high quality Mexican food everyday. Your parents may question the industrial location but one sip of a mimosa or bloody maria will put them at ease. Their brunch is a good bet, with large booths big enough for you and your sister’s boyfriend. The guacamole is excellent as are the chilaquiles and the space has high ceilings and won’t be too loud.
By the Jefferson L Stop:
Brooklyn Cider House offers brunch for Father’s Day and a four course meal from the Basque Region of Spain if you’d like to maximize family time. Cider catching will be a new experience for everyone but it’s a great activity to put everyone in a good mood. If you’re sitting at the bar area, order a cider flight and compare tasting notes.
Faro has some of New York’s best pasta. They use local grains to make exquisite pasta and offer a tasting menu in addition to the standard menu. The bread and butter here might be the highlight of your month and there’s a great wine list to complement everything. A dinner here won’t be cheap but it will be memorable.
Mominette is a French spot where you can enjoy steak frites, escargot, and wine. The garden is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle and it’s particularly lovely during brunch, where we recommend the Croque madame.
Sea Wolf is the perfect spot to bring your parents and reminisce about childhood summers by the beach, before you fully understood taxes. There’s a focus on seafood, lots of outdoor seating, and dollar oyster happy hour from 4-7. Order some mussels or fish and chips, sip a frozen cocktail, and try to explain Instagram stories to your parents.
By the Central Ave M Stop:
Le Garage serves french food in a former garage and it’s an excellent spot to order a duck breast, or at least the duck fat fries. They’re open for brunch and dinner and it’s an elegant spot where you can order a cheese plate for dessert.
By the Dekalb L Stop:
Ops has pizza which is by definition a crowd pleaser. Order the square pizza and some salad and round pies while you wait. Be extra thoughtful and pick up a loaf of the sourdough bread on your way out. The wine list is here is a fun way to introduce your parents to natural wine – the staff is super helpful and will make sure you find something great to drink.
Cover Image: Alonzo Maciel for Bushwick Daily