About Kate:
Kate Hooker is a lawyer and writer who fled the East Village for Brooklyn a few years ago in search of outdoor space and good kombucha.
About South Slope/Greenwood Heights:
Park Slope’s immediate neighbor to the south, an area with amorphous boundaries that is known as South Slope or Greenwood Heights, is a vibrant residential community best known for its nationally landmarked Green-Wood Cemetery and its array of casual bars boasting backyard space and elevated comfort food. A day trip to this easygoing community will hit the spot.
About Green-Wood:
Green-Wood Cemetery, a 478-acre rural cemetery that is the final resting place of a diverse list of VIPs, including Civil War vets, “Boss” Tweed, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Leonard Bernstein, is a must-see on your trip to South Slope. The beautifully landscaped series of rolling hills, dales and ponds contains the highest point in Brooklyn, with views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, as well as the site of the famous Battle of Brooklyn of the Revolutionary War. Check the website before you plan your trip for the schedule of concerts, theater installations, historical lectures and trolley tours.
Where to Dine
The neighborhood is is known for its wide array of inviting restaurants and bars, offering a mix of casual charm and diverse culinary experiences. The neighborhood’s dining scene is anchored by standout spots like Siren Oyster Bar & Restaurant, which provides a fresh and elegant seafood experience, and Mariella, a local favorite for its inviting atmosphere and authentic Italian cuisine. Wonder Park Slope offers a comfortable setting for a relaxed meal, while Surfish Bistro is a popular destination for its unique blend of Peruvian and Japanese flavors. The local nightlife is just as vibrant, with beloved bars like Freddy’s Bar providing a classic, no-frills setting with live music, and the nautical-themed Sea Witch offering a quirky and cozy spot to enjoy a drink.
A Shot of Culture
If you are looking for a shot of culture, there is always something interesting going on at the Open Source gallery, an alternative art space that supports local, independent artists. Nearby Jubilat Provisions is an authentic, old-school Polish butchery that sells house-made kielbasa and prepared foods that will spoil you for all the rest. The neighborhood’s historical roots are on display at the Old Stone House, a reconstruction of a 17th-century Dutch farmhouse that played a crucial role in the Battle of Brooklyn during the Revolutionary War. For a look at 18th-century life, the Lefferts Historic House, a Dutch Colonial farmhouse relocated to Prospect Park, provides a glimpse into the past with its exhibits and working garden. Just a short walk away, the Brooklyn Museum stands as a major cultural destination, with an extensive collection of art spanning a wide range of cultures and time periods, including a significant collection of ancient Egyptian art.
