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Discover Brooklyn: Your Essential Guide to a Local's Favorite Haunts

From Manhattan to Brooklyn: A Lifelong Connection to the Borough

Emma Straub, despite growing up on Manhattan's Upper West Side, developed a profound bond with Brooklyn, a connection that began with her high school commute in 1994. Although her latest novel, American Fantasy, ventures onto a 1990s boy band cruise, Brooklyn remains a significant muse, prominently featured in her earlier works like Modern Lovers and This Time Tomorrow. Her journey from student to acclaimed author has been deeply rooted in this borough, which she now calls home and the setting for her literary endeavors.

The Charm of Carroll Gardens: A Village in the City

Straub’s life in Brooklyn has been largely centered around Carroll Gardens, where she and her husband established their first apartment. This area later became the home of their independent bookstore, Books Are Magic, a testament to their commitment to the local community. She cherishes the walkability of her neighborhood, likening it to a small village where daily errands and school runs foster a strong sense of belonging, often making her forget the proximity of Manhattan, which she still affectionately refers to as 'The City.'

Ideal Seasons for Visiting Brooklyn: Embracing Spring and Autumn

For those planning a visit to Brooklyn, Straub highly recommends the spring or autumn months. She notes that these seasons offer the most pleasant weather, avoiding the extremes of summer and winter. With her birthday in late April, she admits a slight bias towards spring, yet unequivocally asserts that both seasons provide an ideal backdrop for experiencing the borough's unique atmosphere, a sentiment she playfully suggests Ella Fitzgerald would share.

Culinary Delights: Popina, a Taste of Home

Among her top dining recommendations, Popina stands out as a true culinary sanctuary. Tucked away on an unassuming stretch of Columbia Street, this Italian eatery feels like a natural extension of her own kitchen, offering consistently delectable dishes. The warmth and kindness of its staff, especially towards her children, make Popina a beloved local spot where delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere converge.

Morning Rituals: Breakfast at Montague Diner

For a quintessential Brooklyn breakfast experience, Straub and her husband frequently visit Montague Diner after school drop-offs or before heading to their bookstore. This spot serves as a cherished haven for their rare moments of quiet solitude. Known for its perfectly prepared eggs, oatmeal, and pancakes, the diner also serves as a vibrant community hub where they often encounter familiar faces, solidifying its role as a local institution.

Coffee Culture: Poppy's and its Irresistible Treats

When in need of a caffeine boost, Poppy's is Straub's go-to spot. While renowned for its excellent matcha, the real star, in her opinion, is their tahini brownie—the best in the world. Although Poppy's also offers salads, she humorously confesses that she rarely leaves without indulging in one of their irresistible pastries, highlighting the cafe's perfect blend of quality beverages and tempting baked goods.

A Haven for Art and Enchantment: Art of Play Theater

The Art of Play, a charming curiosity shop with a tiny theater, is another of Straub's cherished local finds. Opened by her friend and children's author, Adam Rubin, this unique venue hosts world-class magicians, offering intimate and almost secretive performances. The theater's cozy atmosphere and exceptional talent make every show a magical experience, a testament to Brooklyn's vibrant artistic scene.

The Consistency Project: A Denim Lover's Dream

For anyone struggling to find the perfect pair of jeans, especially vintage ones, Straub offers a public service announcement: visit The Consistency Project. She describes the staff as "wizards and magicians" who effortlessly measure customers, discuss their preferences, and present a pile of perfectly fitting vintage denim. The only challenge, she notes, is choosing just one pair, underscoring the store's unparalleled expertise in vintage apparel.

Books Are Magic: A Community Hub

As a bookstore owner herself, Straub deeply appreciates the essence of Books Are Magic. She loves the natural light streaming through the windows, the inviting open door on pleasant days, and the constant presence of neighbors, their children, and pets. While the books initially draw people in, she believes it's the strong sense of community found within its walls that encourages them to return time and again, making it more than just a place to buy books.

Brooklyn Bridge Park: An Urban Oasis

Brooklyn Bridge Park is a marvel to Straub, a grand-scale project that has miraculously transformed the neighborhood's waterfront. In a city as vast as New York, the creation of such a magnificent, publicly accessible space is truly extraordinary. The park serves as a testament to urban planning, offering a glorious escape that is widely utilized and cherished by everyone in the community.

Cobble Hill Park: A Slice of Cinematic Serenity

For moments of peace and quiet, Cobble Hill Park is Straub's preferred retreat. She humorously imagines herself in a scene from Notting Hill while relaxing on its benches, which are perfect for reading, chatting, or simply enjoying the tranquility. This "dreamy little secret" offers a serene escape, providing a quiet corner amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

Fornino: Dining with a View

When seeking a spectacular view of Manhattan paired with a family-friendly meal, Fornino, the excellent pizza place on Pier 6, is the ideal destination. Straub particularly enjoys dining on its rooftop, anticipating the warmth of summer evenings there. It's a spot where delicious food meets breathtaking scenery, making for an unforgettable dining experience.

Elsa: Sophisticated Cocktails and Ambiance

For those craving fancy cocktails and a touch of sophistication, Elsa is a must-visit. Straub notes that merely walking through its doors instantly elevates one's mood. With its fabulous drinks and even more impressive ambiance, Elsa offers a refined setting for enjoying an evening out, making it a favorite for elegant gatherings.

Lassen and Hennigs: The Local's Secret Spot

Lassen and Hennigs is Straub's ultimate local secret, a place she visits multiple times a day for everything from breakfast and lunch to iced tea and cake. She considers it indispensable, declaring she would "wither and die" without its salads, sandwiches, and the genial conversation that accompanies every visit. It's a true neighborhood institution, catering to every need with a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Gage and Tollner: A Worthwhile Splurge

For a truly special dining experience, Straub highly recommends Gage and Tollner. She expresses a deep affection for old-school steakhouses, and this particular establishment hits all the right notes. It's a place where one can indulge in a worth-it splurge, enjoying classic cuisine in a timeless setting, making it perfect for celebrations or a luxurious treat.

Brooklyn Heights' Rich Literary Legacy: A Hidden History

While some might consider her part of Brooklyn rather mundane, Straub highlights the remarkably impressive literary history of Brooklyn Heights. She proudly mentions that literary giants such as Truman Capote, Walt Whitman, and Carson McCullers once resided within these few square blocks. This rich heritage adds a profound intellectual layer to the neighborhood, often overlooked by outsiders.

Form Fitness: A Welcoming and Empowering Workout Space

Straub recently began working out at Form Fitness, a "tiny subterranean jewel box" of a personal training gym across from Borough Hall. She finds unparalleled comfort in this gym, which stands out for its expansive and inclusive environment, welcoming individuals of all body sizes, genders, and abilities. Form Fitness provides a space where she feels both strong and supported, effectively counteracting the intimidating or toxic atmospheres often found in other gyms.

Posh Nails: A Family Favorite for Pampering

Posh Nails, with locations on both Smith Street and Montague Street, is a beloved spot for Straub and her two sons. Despite her sons finding her choice of bright red nail polish "terribly boring," they all appreciate the friendly staff, relaxing foot massages, and warm towels. This nail salon provides a comfortable and enjoyable pampering experience for the entire family, underscoring the variety of services available within her neighborhood.