A Day in Brooklyn with Dylan
Oaf’s very own Graphic Design wizard, Dylan Efinger, shows us his hometown of Brooklyn, New York
(Alicia Keys’s voice) ‘New Yorkkkk’ home to: by the slice pizza, Miles Morales and our Queen Bee lovin’ Graphic Designer, Dylan. He joined the Oaf gang late last year, with his graphics wizardry makin’ waves all over our: app, socials, website and our latest store window.
This holiday season he travelled back to his stomping ground of Brooklyn, New York and he took us to all his favourite spots for a perfect day in his neighbourhood . From taking in the sights, to of course grabbing some very tasty bites, here’s a few must-visit recommendations to make you wanna take a trip across the pond.
Tell Us About N.Y
I’m a born and raised New Yorker, so when I’m home it’s all about seeing family and friends. Sure, I might make my way into ‘the city’ (New York slang for ‘Manhattan’) to see some sights but Brooklyn is where the heart is – and so are my favourite spots. I grew up in Cobble Hill, a neighbourhood named after a great Civil War battle but now known for its rich Italian American heritage and fair share of hipsters and transplants (I see you Lily Allen and David Harbour).
(Alicia Keys’s voice) ‘New Yorkkkk’ home to: by the slice pizza, Miles Morales and our Queen Bee lovin’ Graphic Designer, Dylan. He joined the Oaf gang late last year, with his graphics wizardry makin’ waves all over our: app, socials, website and our latest store window.
This holiday season he travelled back to his stomping ground of Brooklyn, New York and he took us to all his favourite spots for a perfect day in his neighbourhood . From taking in the sights, to of course grabbing some very tasty bites, here’s a few must-visit recommendations to make you wanna take a trip across the pond.
Tell Us About N.Y
I’m a born and raised New Yorker, so when I’m home it’s all about seeing family and friends. Sure, I might make my way into ‘the city’ (New York slang for ‘Manhattan’) to see some sights but Brooklyn is where the heart is – and so are my favourite spots. I grew up in Cobble Hill, a neighbourhood named after a great Civil War battle but now known for its rich Italian American heritage and fair share of hipsters and transplants (I see you Lily Allen and David Harbour).
FIRST THINGS FIRST, BREAKFAST
Mazzola Bakery
192 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, United States
A family run Italian bakers that hails from the same building that it is was established back in 1928. It’s the perfect spot to get a heaping portion of: classic American-Italian biscotti, butter cookies, pignolis and rainbow cookies. Make sure to try their famous lard bread with genoa salami, provolone cheese, black pepper and lard; it’s been a menu staple for nearly 90 years.
Dylan’s go-to: Bluberry Muffin
Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday: 6am-8pm; Sunday: 7pm-6pm
LET’S CATCH A MOVIE
Cobble Hill Cinemas
265 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, United States
In the Cobble Hill section of Brooklyn, on the corner of Court and Butler Street, sits this retro neighbourhood theatre which opened back in the 60s. I’m a huge fan of this spot as it’s one of the few independent movie theatres in the neighbourhood.
I’ve been going here for as long as I can remember, and have fond memories of catching a movie with friends then going back to my house (with cake) to debrief. One of my favourite memories was seeing Star Wars: The Force Awakens on opening night in 2015. The entire neighbourhood, including lots of my family, were packed in awaiting the return of a beloved franchise. One guy gave a good ol’ soul clap and whoop when the Millenium Falcon came on the screen; he emulated what we were all feeling. (Photo by Jon Bilous)
Opening Hours: Showings start from 12pm
POST-CINEMA LEG STRETCH WALK
The Promenade
Montague St &, Pierrepont Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States
This pedestrian walkway lets you take in some of the city’s sights including: Downtown Manhattan, the East River and the Brooklyn Bridge; I highly recommend strolling down here on a crisp and sunny Winter’s day.
At the northernmost end, you may come across some fruity streets… no really! The Brooklyn Heights neighbourhood is home to: Cranberry, Pineapple, and Orange Street.
It’s a transient space, so you’ll be able to get to areas such as the aforementioned, Brooklyn Heights, and Dumbo which, if you’ve seen Past Lives, you’ll recognise! Be ready to be blown away by the views.
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday: 6am-1am
DINNER = SERVED
Hanco's
147 Montague St. Brooklyn, NY 11201
134 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
354 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
I’ve saved the best till last - this is a non-negotiable visit when I’m back home. Established in 2005, this Vietnamese spot was introduced to me by one of my nearest and dearest friends Isabella back in high school. This place was affordable and delicious so perfect for when we wanted a post-school pick me-up. To make it even better they have stamp cards for both Sandwiches and Bubble Tea. It's such a good feeling when you can claim your whole meal, free.
My go-to order is the Shredded Chicken Sandwich Medium Spice, but I’m working my way up the spice ranks, with a Green Apple Bubble Tea. However, if I’m feeling under the weather I will always grab a bowl of their Pho!
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday: 11am-9pm
ROOM FOR DESSERT?
Van Leeuwen
1 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
It’s a chain, but there’s not one in the U.K so I’ve gotta talk about it! They offer an abundance of amazing flavoured scooped ice-cream, bars and shakes as well as dairy-free alternatives, score if you’re lactose intolerant/vegan. The branch in Brooklyn is based in Brooklyn Bridge Park which sits below The Promenade, so you can enjoy your ice-cream and the sights.
Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday: 12pm-11pm
BOOGIE THE NIGHT AWAY
Mary's Bar
134 Kingsland Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222, United States
Lastly, if you’re looking for a cute spot to dance away your woes, Mary’s Bar is the place to be. Tucked away in the corner of Williamsburg, this queer Irish pub is the sister establishment to Ginger’s, an iconic gay bar in Park Slope. It also happens to be where my bestie Tasheff has been DJing for the past year, bringing his signature mix of pop, electronic and dance to his monthly club night K.I.S.S. (Keep it Simple Stupid). I even popped in for a guest set over the holidays, playing some of my favourite songs to kick off the night.
Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday: 12pm-11pm
