208 Court St, Brooklyn

Mon-Thurs 4pm-1am, Fri-Sat 1pm-3am, Sun 1pm-1am

A laid back neighborhood bar with daily happy hour and easy outdoor seating made for catching up with friends and loved ones. Expect a rotating list of cocktails, beer, and wine in a space that works just as well for a casual pre dinner drink as it does for a late night spot.

Food: No, drinks only

Nabila’s

248 Court St, Brooklyn

Mon-Thurs 5:30-9:30pm, Fri-Sun 5:00-9:30pm, Sat-Sun Lunch: 12:00-3:00pm

Set on one of the prettiest corners in the neighborhood, Nabila’s feels like being invited into someone’s home for dinner. The menu is rooted in family recipes passed down from the owner’s mother and grandmother, with standout dishes like kibbeh and sfeeha. A perfect spot to enjoy the weather, share plates, and a slower meal outdoors.

Food: Dinner, Weekend Lunch

Swoony’s

215 Columbia St, Brooklyn

Mon-Sat 5pm-10pm

One of our most repeated spots for a reason. The inside is cozy, but when the sidewalk seating is out, we’re happy to switch it up. Come for deviled eggs, their iconic burger and fries, a crisp wedge salad, and a martini with blue cheese stuffed olives. It is a neighborhood classic that consistently delivers.

Food: Dinner

~~~7 more of our favorite neighborhood patios below the paywall~~~

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Here’s what’s happening this week:

✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨

• Food writer and cookbook author Alison Roman is bringing her boutique grocery concept, First Bloom, to Brooklyn Heights this fall. Plans call for a cafe, coffee program, prepared foods, baked goods, and a produce market. We'll be keeping an eye out for more details as the opening approaches.

• One of New York's most influential restaurateurs is headed to Brooklyn Heights. Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group will open its first full-service Brooklyn restaurant at the landmark Hotel Bossert. Andrea Strong, , has the scoop on what we know so far.

• Titán is heading to the former Gran Electrica space in DUMBO from Los Burritos Juarez owner Alan Delgado and renowned bartender Ivy Mix of Leyenda. They’re brining tacos, margaritas, shareable Mexican dishes, and a large backyard space.

• We have one more croissant competition update to share: La Bicyclette recently took home French Morning’s Best Original Creation award for its unique white asparagus and miso pastry. Congratulations to the neighborhood bakery on the well-deserved recognition. Additionally, another winner, Brooklyn French Bakers has now opened their 3rd location at 41 Flatbush Av, we’re excited to welcome them after previously reporting about their new location.

• Form.50 is set to open June 1st! The popular workout concept combines strength training, Pilates, and cardio. The schedule is now open for booking, with pre-sale membership deals available and a chance to win six months of free classes for early sign-ups HERE.

• Bondhaus Now Open on Atlantic! The studio recently welcomed visitors during NYCxDESIGN Week and Atlantic Avenue Day of Design, offering a first look at the new space. More pop-ups, exhibitions, and community events are already in the works, follow along here.

  

• Local Feature: In a world of productivity apps and endless notifications, one Brooklyn shop owner makes the case for slowing down. This thoughtful feature on The Analog Stationer explores why pens, notebooks, and handwritten notes continue to thrive in the digital age.

I’m hoping to make it over to the live jazz evening at Red Hook Barrel Yard this week, details below. A sunset by the water with live music feels like the perfect way to kick off a summery weekend.

See you around the neighborhood!

Shannon

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Presented by Flea Boutiques

Come see our New Affordable Arrivals! They will add a pop of color to your Summer Wardrobe!

FLEA Smith Street is a locally owned boutique specializing in women’s clothing, children’s clothing, accessories, home decor, & gifts.

Whether you are looking for everyday outfits or a special statement piece for an upcoming event, Flea has something for you! We offer a wide selection of clothing that are classic, unique, affordable, & bring some joy to your wardrobe! We truly buy our products with our clients and the neighborhood in mind, & have added a lot more price conscious products on our clothing racks. If you can’t make it into our Smith Street store, please check out our online store!

Visit Flea at 135 Smith St (between Bergen & Dean Street), Brooklyn NY 11201

fleaboutiques.com | @shopfleaboutiques

Our Top Picks

Events with an asterisk* tend to sell out- reserve tickets early!

Today, May 28:

Pottery Painting @ A.mano (6:30pm): Looking for a creative night out? Enjoy an evening of pottery painting where you can choose from a selection of handmade ceramics to decorate. You’ll also enjoy refreshments and a personal charcuterie board. Tickets include all materials, glazing and firing, plus a 10% discount to shop the store HERE.

Pick Up Project Community Cleanup @ Urban Meadow Community Garden (7:00pm): Volunteers will meet at Urban Meadow Community Garden before collecting litter along Van Brunt Street and wrapping up at Strong Rope Brewery just in time for sunset. All supplies are provided, and everyone is welcome to join.

Friday, May 29:

DUMBO Drop @ Washington Street (3:30pm-7:30pm)*: Watch thousands of toy elephants parachute onto Washington Street as ticket holders compete for prizes, all while supporting local public schools. The day also brings live music, food vendors, and family friendly activities, making it one of the neighborhood’s most unique and lively annual events. RSVP HERE.

Live Jazz & Sunsets @ Red Hook Barrel Yard (5:30pm-8:30pm): Join Emmy-honoree Carl Fischer & the Organic Groove Ensemble and kick off the weekend with live jazz and waterfront views. Enjoy an evening of music, drinks, and sunset vibes along the harbor.

Saturday, May 30:

Bike Day @ Prospect Park (11:00am-2:00pm): This free community event features guided rides, learn-to-ride workshops for children, free helmet giveaways, minor bike repairs, a children's bike swap, and street safety education. Stop by the park entrance at 15th Street and Prospect Park West for an afternoon of family-friendly cycling fun.

Open House + Community Flea @ Brooklyn Yoga Project (4:00pm-8:00pm): Stop by for an afternoon of local shopping, connection, and exploration. Browse offerings from neighborhood artists, makers, and vintage vendors while getting a look inside their studio. Whether you're a longtime yogi or simply looking to support local creatives, it's a great opportunity to connect with the community.

Sunday, May 31:

PS8 Paddlewheeler Block Party @ Hicks + Middagh Streets (12:00pm-4:00pm): One of Brooklyn Heights' favorite family events is back. Expect bounce houses, a pirate ship ride, carnival games, face painting, arts and crafts, a dunk tank, live music, food, raffle prizes, and plenty more. The annual fundraiser supports PS8 and welcomes neighbors of all ages for an afternoon of community fun. Tickets HERE.

Tuesday, June 2:

Sex Ed Workshop for Parents @ Darling (6:30pm-8:00pm): Looking for guidance on navigating big conversations with your kids? Join sexuality educator Rachel Lotus for an evening workshop designed to help parents talk confidently about bodies, boundaries, consent, identity, and more. You’ll leave with practical language, actionable tips, and age-appropriate resources, plus the chance to connect with fellow neighborhood parents. Tickets HERE.

Submit an event to be considered for this weekly events roundup!

Neighborhood Job Board

Each week we publish a new job board link featuring local openings from Cobble Hill and nearby businesses

This week: 30+ roles including at new openings - Grimm Tavern, First Bloom by Alison Roman, Lonnies. We’re also hiring a Brooklyn Content Creator across our fast-growing neighborhood Instagram pages - read more about the role here.

View Neighborhood Jobs

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✨ Cobble Hill Insider ✨

This week’s Insider section includes:

La Rose Pizza founder is joining forces with one of Cobble Hill’s most iconic restaurants • New Owners for a Brooklyn Heights Institution • A new creative gathering space is in the works + a highly anticipated opening next month

Read more

Tree-lined streets, landmark brownstones, a short walk to the bridge — a neighborhood with such great taste deserves a workspace to match.

Brooklyn Heights has been on our list for a while, and we're thrilled to finally open our seventh New York City location at 57 Court Street, steps from the Promenade, Montague Street, and some of Brooklyn's most sought-after schools.

Designed for the neighborhood's freelancers, founders, and remote professionals, our space makes it easy to find your rhythm. Drop in for a focused few hours, reserve one of our beautifully appointed meeting rooms, or settle into a daily routine in a place built for the way this neighborhood actually works.

Founding memberships at The Malin Brooklyn Heights start at $350/month, with flex month-to-month options from $495/month. Day passes and meeting rooms are available to book on demand — no membership required.

Learn more and book a tour →

The Malin Brooklyn Heights

57 Court St Brooklyn, NY 11201

718-285-8316 ⎮ brooklynheights@themalin.co

Thank you to The Malin for supporting Cobble Hill Collective.

Sponsored content like this allows Cobble Hill Collective to continue delivering top-quality local coverage to our community. Your support helps fund our dedicated writers. Interested in advertising with Cobble Hill Collective? Contact us to learn more about partnership opportunities.

Here’s what’s happening this week:

✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨

• Lonnie’s has landed! After acquiring the former Café Kitsuné space last year, the Ingas Bar team has opened a sister restaurant offering small plates, incredible vibes, another incredible burger and so much more. We checked out their soft opening over the weekend and were thoroughly impressed and excited to welcome this new spot to the neighborhood. Check out our thoughts here.

• /impact/ Group Fitness has opened in Carroll Gardens. They’re offering everything from strength training to cardio-based classes at the new Smith Street studio. Check out their classes and book yours here.

• Big congratulations to Brooklyn French Bakers, which was just named home to the best croissant in NYC by French Morning. With multiple locations, including one at 273 Columbia St, the bakery continues to earn praise for its perfectly flaky pastries and classic French baking.

• A new design destination has arrived in Cobble Hill with the opening of Manes Studio, a showroom and retail shop featuring custom furniture, home décor, modern vintage pieces, handmade linens, and fine art. The thoughtfully curated space serves both the brand’s architecture and interior design practice as well as neighborhood visitors looking for inspiration.

• Maman DUMBO now open! Maman has officially opened at 66 Water Street, bringing its signature cookies and floral-filled interiors to the neighborhood. The new location also features a dedicated events space, making it a charming new addition for coffee dates, brunches, and celebrations alike.

• The Longest Table returned to Brooklyn Heights this weekend, drawing roughly 1,300 neighbors for a massive community potluck stretching through the neighborhood. Organizers say participation doubled from the event’s inaugural year, as residents gathered around shared tables, stoops, and homemade dishes for an afternoon centered on connection and community.

• The future of Red Hook’s historic Grain Terminal remains unclear as new ideas continue to circulate for the long vacant waterfront structure. Proposals have ranged from cultural spaces and restaurants to plans involving the legendary SS United States ocean liner.

This week, I’m hoping to stop by Poppy’s Spring Happy Hour. Oysters, wine, and dessert on a spring evening sounds like a pretty perfect neighborhood outing, especially after a busy week. If you end up checking it out too, let me know what you think.

See you around Cobble Hill!

Shannon

✨ Continue reading our ‘Cobble Hill Insider’ section at the bottom just for paid subscribers who want to stay a step ahead - soft openings & exclusives!

Do you have a story we should be sharing? 🗞️ Submit your tip anonymously here, or email us

Presented by Flea Boutiques

Flea Smith Street is celebrating Five Years on Smith!

FLEA is a locally owned boutique specializing in women’s clothing, children’s clothing and accessories, home decor, & gifts. Founded by Carroll Gardens resident Ines Pujos, Flea is celebrating their fifth anniversary on Smith Street this summer! When stepping into Flea, you will find clothing featuring unique patterns, bright colors, and a wide variety of styles at various price points. Flea also offers organic baby clothing, toys, and gifts. They’re offering 10% off with promo code smithstreetneighbor online in their Smith Street store.

Visit Flea at 135 Smith St (between Bergen & Dean Street), Brooklyn NY 11201

fleaboutiques.com | @shopfleaboutiques

Our Top Picks

Events with an asterisk* tend to sell out- reserve tickets early!

Today, May 21:

Spring Happy Hour @ Poppy’s (4:00pm-7:00pm): Enjoy a spring happy hour pop-up on at their Degraw Street location (243 Degraw Street between Court Street and Clinton Street), featuring oysters, natural wines, snacks, and dessert. The casual evening gathering will also include fresh bites and wine, with the cafe staying open later than usual for the occasion. A perfect excuse to stop by, snack a little, and toast to spring in Carroll Gardens.

Friday, May 22:

Happy Hour @ Atata NYC (6:00pm-9:00pm): Celebrate the close of Design Week with a happy hour at Atata’s new Dumbo showroom. The evening will feature cocktails, light bites, and a chance to explore the studio’s curated collection of vintage furniture and design objects in their newly opened space.

Weekend Events:

DanceAfrica Bazaar @ BAM (May 23-25): DanceAfrica Bazaar returns to the streets surrounding BAM this Memorial Day Weekend, transforming the neighborhood into a vibrant global marketplace. The event will feature more than 150 vendors offering African, Caribbean, and African American food, fashion, crafts, and cultural goods alongside the energy of the larger DanceAfrica Festival.

Saturday, May 23:

Rib King NYC @ Industry City’s Courtyard 1/2 (12:00pm-4:00pm)*: Enjoy this Rib all-inclusive Memorial Day Weekend celebration of barbecue, craft drinks, and global flavors. The annual cook-off will bring together top pitmasters and rising chefs serving everything from classic Texas-style ribs to Thai, Caribbean, and Indonesian-inspired creations, alongside local breweries, spirits, desserts, and hot sauces. Tickets HERE.

Sunday, May 24:

Sunday Funday with Good Time Pilates @ Threes Brewing (11:00am)*: Good Time Pilates is kicking off outdoor class season with a community mat class at Threes Brewing. The 45-minute session will be followed by beers and hangs in the brewery’s backyard, making for the perfect Sunday reset with neighbors and friends. Spots limited HERE.

Monday, May 25:

Memorial Day Rooftop Party @ Time Out Market (2:00pm-7:00pm): Kick off summer with a Memorial Day rooftop party featuring DJ Fatfingaz spinning live sets overlooking the skyline. Expect cocktails, happy hour specials, giveaways, and high energy rooftop vibes. RSVP HERE.

Wednesday, May 27:

Kid Felt Pin Badge Mini Camp @ Bond Craft Studio (9:00am-12:00pm): Looking for a creative school day off activity? Bond Craft Studio is hosting a Felt Pin Badge Mini Camp where kids (ages 8 and up) can design and sew their own handmade felt pins using beads, ribbons, sequins, and embroidery details. Tickets HERE.

Submit an event to be considered for this weekly events roundup!

Neighborhood Job Board

Each week we publish a new job board link featuring local openings from Cobble Hill and nearby businesses. Add your summer jobs for locals here - listing is free!

View Neighborhood Jobs

List a job for free | Subscribe for free to get the weekly job board in your inbox

✨ Cobble Hill Insider ✨

This week’s Insider section includes:

Another longtime Brooklyn Heights storefront is on its way out • Mysterious Mansion hits the market • A local favorite is expanding with a new farm-inspired provisions shop

Read more

Here’s what’s happening this week:

✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨

• As we reported back in March, Bathhouse is opening a new location at 540 Atlantic Avenue (near 3rd Avenue) - the opening is confirmed for this Saturday May 16, bringing its signature mix of thermal pools, saunas, and spa treatments to Boerum Hill. The fast-growing NYC concept (with locations in Williamsburg and Flatiron) is continuing its expansion with this large-scale Brooklyn space. Bookings are now open on their website with day passes starting at $29!

• Tavern Next Door Now Open! After acquiring the space next door to Red Hook Tavern last year, Billy Durney has officially opened this new cocktail lounge inspired by a wild night in Paris. Led by @conorscocktails, the menu features reinvented disco-era cocktails, elevated bar snacks, and yes, a version of the legendary Red Hook Tavern burger. The bar is reserved for walk-ins and you can snag table reservations on OpenTable.

• Local Business owner Pooja Bavishi, founder of Malai and their Brooklyn Heights scoop shop, recently spoke about building her beloved ice cream brand through flavors inspired by her South Asian upbringing. In the interview, she reflects on authenticity, creativity, and how flavors like rose, saffron, pistachio, and masala chai helped redefine what American ice cream can look like. As she prepares to expand her ice cream company, we love this thoughtful read on creativity, culture, and the evolution of a local business with roots right here in the neighborhood.

• Grand Army debuts a seasonal menu inspired by classic mall food court nostalgia, complete with playful references to spots like Auntie Anne’s and Hot Topic. We can’t wait to check out this revamped lineup, including new cocktails and updated food offerings, bringing a cheeky, retro-themed twist.

• Seven Wonders Collective recently opened at 398 Atlantic Avenue, bringing a curated mix of vintage fashion and globally sourced finds to Cobble Hill. The new shop features pieces from more than 36 vendors, ranging from timeless wardrobe staples to one-of-a-kind statement pieces. We’re excited to see another destination to the neighborhood’s growing vintage scene.

✨ Continue reading our ‘Cobble Hill Insider’ section at the bottom just for paid subscribers who want to stay a step ahead - soft openings & exclusives!

Do you have a story we should be sharing? 🗞️ Submit your tip anonymously here, or email us

Presented by Paesani Janitorial Services

A Complimentary First Month of Janitorial Service for Brooklyn Condos & Co-ops

If your building hasn’t felt quite right, it’s usually not the work itself — it’s the system behind it.

Paesani Janitorial Services, focused on Brooklyn condos and co-ops, is offering Park Slope Living readers a complimentary walkthrough and a first month of service at no cost for buildings that get started by June 14, 2026. See the full offer

Text or email Anthony at Paesani Janitorial Services to schedule a walkthrough:

347-628-3035 | anthony@pjsnyc.com | pjsnyc.com

Our Top Picks

Events with an asterisk* tend to sell out- reserve tickets early!

Today, May 14:

Second Thursdays Artist Hangout @ Hometown Bar-B-Que (6:00pm-8:00pm): Red Hook Open Studios is bringing back its monthly Second Thursdays Artist Hang Outat Hometown Bar-B-Que. The gathering invites local artists, writers, musicians, designers, and creatives of all kinds to connect, exchange ideas, and build community over drinks and barbecue.

Friday, May 15:

This Is What We Mean By Short Films: Rooftop Films Opening Night 2026 @ Green-Wood Cemetery, (7:45pm): Celebrate the start of Rooftop Films’ landmark 30th season with a dazzling night of new short films under the stars, three decades in the making. When the screen fades, the evening’s just beginning: stay for a post-show Q&A with some of the featured filmmakers and then dance your way into our DJ’d afterparty with complimentary beverages for all! $27.53.

Check out Rooftop Films’ kickstarter here.

Weekend Events:

FAD Market NYCxDESIGN @ St. Paul Hall, 190 Court St. (May 16-17 from 11:00am-6:00pm): The annual weekend market inside the historic St. Paul Hall is here! The free event will feature more than 60 independent designers and makers showcasing home goods, jewelry, apparel, tableware, and more, all set inside the beautifully restored 1838 landmark space just off Court Street.

Saturday, May 16:

Kite Festival @ Brooklyn Bridge Park (11:00am-3:00pm): Head to the park for a full afternoon of family-friendly spring fun along the waterfront. Visitors are invited to bring their own kites and watch them soar above the skyline during the park’s only public kite flying day of the year, alongside live music, crafts, games, and activities from local community partners. Details HERE.

The Longest Table @ Remsen Street, Hicks to Promenade (12:30pm-2:30pm)*: The Brooklyn Heights Association is turning Remsen Street into a vibrant, open-air dining experience. The community event brings neighbors together at one long table to share a meal, connect, and celebrate the neighborhood. Save your spot here.

Sunday, May 17:

Montague Open Streets @ Montague Street (11:00am-4:00pm): Montague Open Streets returns with a full afternoon of family-friendly programming. The event will feature more than 25 activities for kids and families, including puppet shows, yoga, martial arts demos, arts and crafts, STEM activities, face painting, live entertainment, and more. You’ll also find food pop-ups, giveaways, and community activations up and down Montague Street. Get the full breakdown here.

Outdoor Sketchbooking @ Brooklyn Bridge Park John Street (10:00am-11:30am)*: Enjoy a relaxed sketchbooking meet-up for adults and older teens looking to practice drawing, swap ideas, and spend time creating outdoors. This month’s session will explore the John Street section of the park, with a focus on architecture and skyline views including the Manhattan Bridge and Lower Manhattan. Save your spot HERE.

Tuesday, May 19:

Mahjong 101 Class @ Ziggy’s Roman Cafe (7:00pm-9:00pm)*: Chop Suey Club is hosting a beginner-friendly Mahjong 101 class at Ziggy’s Roman Cafe with expert instruction, guided gameplay, and take-home materials included. The evening also features an open bar, plus a pizza buffet from Ziggy’s served throughout the class. Tickets HERE (also on May 26).

Submit an event to be considered for this weekly events roundup!

Tavern Next Door might be my first stop this weekend. I’m curious to see which disco era cocktail ends up becoming everyone’s favorite.

Neighborhood Job Board

Each week we publish a new job board link featuring local openings from Cobble Hill and nearby businesses. Add your summer jobs for locals here - listing is free!

This week: The Trust for Governors Island, Operations Manager & Store Manager roles, summer jobs

View Neighborhood Jobs

List a job for free | Subscribe for free to get the weekly job board in your inbox

✨ Cobble Hill Insider ✨

This week’s Insider section includes:

New signage in DUMBO is fueling speculation about a major food opening • This new neighborhood fitness studio wants you to try a class for $10 • A record-breaking Cobble Hill townhouse just found a buyer

Read more

Here’s what’s happening this week:

✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨

• Starting this week, Atlantic Avenue turns into a mile-and-a-half-long art gallery for the annual ArtWalk, where 125+ local artists showcase their work inside 70+ neighborhood businesses. Running May 9–17, this free, self-guided event invites you to wander, discover everything from paintings to photography, and support the small shops and restaurants.

  

• The Longest Table returns to Brooklyn Heights this month, turning Remsen Street into a vibrant, open-air dining experience. The community event brings neighbors together at one long table to share a meal, connect, and celebrate the neighborhood. Save your spot here.

• Café Mars is switching things up in May with a full transformation into an Italian izakaya. The space will take on a new menu, look, and feel centered around Itameshi cuisine, blending Japanese techniques with Italian flavors for a limited time concept that’s definitely worth checking out. Reserve your table here.

• Popina just launched weekend lunch, bringing a mix of favorites like arancini and hot chicken milanese alongside new daytime dishes like a fried eggplant sandwich and sungold pasta. Stick around for Aperitivo from 3–5pm Friday through Sunday, with snacks, spritzes, and an open backyard.

✨ Continue reading our ‘Cobble Hill Insider’ section at the bottom just for paid subscribers who want to stay a step ahead - soft openings & exclusives!

Do you have a story we should be sharing? 🗞️ Submit your tip anonymously here, or email us

Our Top Picks

Events with an asterisk* tend to sell out- reserve tickets early!

Today, May 7:

Girls Night Out with Smith & Vine @ Dear Dreamer (6:00pm-9:00pm): Enjoy a relaxed shopping night with a wine tasting from Smith & Vine. Expect a social evening with sips, exclusive discounts, and a chance to browse the boutique.

Garden Dinner with Jonathan Waxman @ Barbuto Patio (6:30pm)*: Barbuto Brooklyn is hosting a one-night Garden Dinner with Chef Jonathan Waxman, set on their patio under the open sky. The evening features a five-course, family-style tasting menu with wine pairings, bringing together seasonal dishes, wine, and a relaxed, communal atmosphere. A perfect spring night out! RSVP HERE.

Friday, May 8:

Naughty Piglets Pop-up @ Entre Nous (reservations start at 5:00pm)*: London’s Naughty Piglets is popping up for one night at Entre Nous. Expect a special menu from Chef Francesco Sarvonio alongside Entre Nous favorites, with standout dishes like crispy saffron risotto with beef battuta and tagliolini alla Nerano. Owner Margaux Aubry will be pouring curated wines for the evening. RSVP HERE.

Saturday, May 9:

Pizza on the Pier @ Brooklyn Bridge Park (Three 90-min sessions 12pm - 5pm)*: Pizza on the Pier returns for its sixth annual celebration, bringing together 30+ of NYC’s top pizzamakers. 100% of ticket sales go toward providing meals for local hunger relief organizations. Expect incredible pizza and waterfront views for a good cause. Tickets HERE.

Charm Bar Pop-up @ Rue St. Paul (12:00pm-4:00pm): Tesoro NYC is popping up for a Charm Bar, offering a hands-on way to create your own custom jewelry. Build personalized necklaces, bracelets, or earrings with a mix of charms and pre-made pieces.

Brooklyn Conservatory of Music Open Stages, 3:00-6:00pm (map below): Open Stages is a neighborhood-wide, free music festival with stages all over Park Slope, and a celebration of Brooklyn’s vibrant music scene. Each year, the event transforms Park Slope into a lively tapestry of sound and culture, where the streets come alive with melodies and rhythms from around the globe. This year, expect 19 stages of free outdoor music plus hundreds of artists and partners. FREE - click for map and full schedule.

The festival will happen rain or shine - check BKCM.org/openstages for full map + schedule!

Sunday, May 10:

Strong as a Mother @ Barry’s Brooklyn Heights (12:50)*: Join this special Mother’s Day class at Barry’s with a giveaway from Element Natural Healing. Reserve your spot HERE.

Weekend Events:

FAD Market: Mother’s Day @ Empire Stores (Saturday, May 9-Sunday, May 10 from 11:00am-6:00pm): Expect a special Mother’s Day weekend market featuring 35+ independent designers and makers. It’s the perfect place to shop handmade jewelry, apparel, skincare, and unique gifts, or simply spend the day browsing together.

Swamp in the City: A Cajun & Creole Music Festival @ Strong Rope Brewery (Thursday, May 7-Sunday, May 10)*: Enjoy this lively Cajun and Creole music festival with dancing, live bands, and Southern flair. The multi-day celebration features performances from top zydeco and Cajun artists, plus food vendors, workshops, and family-friendly events. Purchase tickets HERE.

Wednesday, May 13:

Spring Fling Gala @ Brooklyn Grange, Sunset Park (6:00pm-9:00pm)*: Celebrate the start of spring at BloomAgainBklyn’s annual Spring Fling Gala. Enjoy an open bar, live DJ sets, and immersive floral experiences, all in support of sustainability and community programming across Brooklyn. Purchase tickets HERE.

Submit an event to be considered for this weekly events roundup!

Neighborhood Job Board

Each week we publish a new job board link featuring local openings from Cobble Hill and nearby businesses. Add your summer jobs for locals here - listing is free!

This week: 30+ local jobs including roles at BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival, Mr. Boddington’s Studio, Esquina, Salter House, BKLYN Commons

View Neighborhood Jobs

List a job for free | Subscribe for free to get the weekly job board in your inbox

✨ Cobble Hill Insider ✨

This week’s Insider section includes:

Update from a highly anticipated new restaurant in the neighborhood opening soon - including a sneak preview of the interiors • Popular bakery celebrates Mother’s Day with limited-edition gift box • Former Brooklyn Nets player relists DUMBO Condo after price cut

Read more

Here’s what’s happening this week:

✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨

• A true Carroll Gardens institution has closed its doors. Caputo’s, the beloved family run bakery known for its bread and Italian cookies, served its final loaf this week after generations in the neighborhood. More than just a shop, it was a piece of local history and community fabric, making this loss especially felt. shares a look at what this moment means for the neighborhood.

• DUMBO Projection Project returns this May with a month long interactive art installation beneath the Manhattan Bridge and along the BQE in Dr. Susan Smith McKinney Steward Park. This year’s edition invites viewers to take part in the experience, with video works that respond to movement, light, and the surrounding space.

• Dinah’s soft opening kicked off this past weekend with an open house, free bagels and lots of coffee. We cannot wait to be back as they get ready to announce their official full day of service. Follow along here for updates. They’re hiring - see our Neighborhood Job Board below for roles!

• Weekend plans? Our Boerum Hill Guide is here with an ideal morning to night itinerary. We’re featuring 20+ go-to coffee spots, local shops, and where to end the day.

• Malvan, NYC’s first Malvani cuisine restaurant, has recently opened in Carroll Gardens. Led by seven time Michelin awarded chef Eric McCarthy, the menu showcases bold, coconut rich, seafood forward dishes rooted in tradition.

  

✨ Continue reading our ‘Cobble Hill Insider’ section at the bottom just for paid subscribers who want to stay a step ahead - soft openings & exclusives!

Do you have a story we should be sharing? 🗞️ Submit your tip anonymously here, or email us

Our Top Picks

Events with an asterisk* tend to sell out- reserve tickets early!

Today, April 30:

Taste of Red Hook @ The Liberty Warehouse (6:00pm-9:00pm): Taste of Red Hook returns for an evening of unlimited bites, drinks, and community. Featuring 30+ local restaurants, bakeries, and beverage partners, this annual event celebrates the neighborhood while supporting Red Hook Initiative’s work in the community. Purchase your ticket HERE.

Styling + Custom Tailoring for Earth Month @ M.PATMOS (5:00pm-7:00pm): This event in honor of Earth Month invites you to refresh your wardrobe the sustainable way. Bring a piece from your closet and learn how to reimagine it with guidance from a stylist and designer, with light refreshments.

Friday, May 1:

Flower Full Moon Walk @ Fort Greene Park (7:00pm-9:00pm): Celebrate the full Flower Moon with this guided walk. Expect a relaxed, community focused way to kick off the weekend under the spring night sky, with a few thoughtful extras. RSVP HERE.

Saturday, May 2:

Free Reformer classes @ Studio Pilates Cobble Hill (All day)*: Studio Pilates is celebrating Joseph Pilates Day with a full day of free workouts, plus food, raffles, and special in-studio offers. Stop by to move, sweat, and see what the studio is all about, but be sure to book ahead HERE.

Sunday, May 3:

Made in NYC Brooklyn Pop-Up @ Strong Rope Brewery (12:00pm-6:00pm): Head to Red Hook for this curated market of locally made goods. From ceramics and skincare to home decor and bites, it’s a chance to shop small, discover new brands, and enjoy a drink while you browse.

Tuesday, May 5:

Mother’s Day Maker Night @ Dawn’s ‘Til Dusk (Tuesday, May 5, 7:00pm-9:30pm)*: Join four incredibly talented artisans for a hands-on workshop where you’ll explore design, calligraphy, cookie decorating, and floral arranging all in one experience. Learn from experts like Minhee Cho, Jenna Yasgur, Tiffany Canuelas, and Ha Na Choi, and leave with your own custom creations.

Cinco de Mayo the MOUV Way @ MOUV (6:30pm)*: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo the MOUV way with this fun collab event. Expect margaritas, light bites, and your choice of a reformer or heated mat class for the perfect mix of workout and social. Spots are limited, book yours here.

Cinco de Mayo Celebration @ Time Out Market Rooftop (6:00pm-9:00pm): Enjoy rooftop views and celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Time Out Market. Expect live music, margarita specials, plus a Taco Tuesday crossover at Ivy Stark Mexology to round out the night. RSVP HERE.

Book these popular events in advance:

DUMBO Drop @ Washington Street (Friday, May 29, 3:30pm-7:30pm)*: Watch thousands of toy elephants parachute onto Washington Street as ticket holders compete for prizes, all while supporting local public schools. The day also brings live music, food vendors, and family friendly activities, making it one of the neighborhood’s most unique and lively annual events. RSVP and get details HERE.

Submit an event to be considered for this weekly events roundup!

Neighborhood Job Board

Each week we publish a new job board link featuring local openings from Cobble Hill and nearby businesses. Add your summer jobs for locals here - listing is free!

This week: Jobs at Dinah (FOH & BOH), Catskills Catering, Lonnies Bar (from the Ingas Bar team - opening soon!), Kings Co Imperial, BRIC, Brooklyn Arts Council

View Neighborhood Jobs

List a job for free | Subscribe for free to get the weekly job board in your inbox

✨ Cobble Hill Insider ✨

This week’s Insider section includes:

Rare piece of Brooklyn history hits the market • Inventive restaurant is transforming into an Italian Izakaya for the month of May • A new Smith Street opening with a hip hop DJ set and all day celebrations

Read more

Ease into the day with some movement. Boerum Hill has no shortage of dynamic workout classes to keep things interesting. Depending on your preference, we recommend VERAYOGA for a variety of yoga flows, the recently opened JETSET Pilates, The Floor, a local movement studio and community space for artists and instructors, and Good Time Pilates for a more classic, traditional studio feel.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Stumptown Coffee Roasters for your caffeine fix. It’s laptop friendly but still cozy enough for a catch up or a solo coffee date. We also love Cafe Volkan, whether you’re in the mood for a full breakfast spread or just a coffee and a really good pastry, you won’t leave disappointed.

A leisurely afternoon

Spend the afternoon wandering the neighborhood’s local shops. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind vintage piece, something for your home, specialty foods, or a little bit of everything, you’ll find it here. Consider this your starting point:

• Unearth Vintage is a family-owned shop offering thoughtfully curated, hand-selected vintage pieces that feel both timeless and personal.

Below the paywall: the rest of this guide, including our favorite shops to browse, afternoon pick-me-ups, standout dinner spots, and a Google Map of all the spots.

Read more

There’s something rare about walking into a space and feeling like you’ve discovered something not everyone knows about yet.

That’s exactly what it felt like stepping into 69 Atlantic at the beautifully designed Art of Play store in Brooklyn Heights - opened in the fall of 2024.

You’re first welcomed into the Art of Play store - a space filled with unique curiosities, games, and puzzles - with a cup of complimentary wine. It made me slow down and explore at the end of a busy day.

Owner Adam Rubin, along with business partners Dan and Dave Buck, envisioned the store as more than just retail. When they moved to Brooklyn, they knew a physical space was essential to bring their world of Art of Play (founded in 2013 in San Diego, California) to life.

Guests arrive early, browse, ask questions, and chat with the team. It feels less like a venue and more like being welcomed into someone’s living room or library. Right before the show begins, the shop transforms into a theater space. And suddenly, everything becomes more intimate.

The space seats just 26 people per show - small enough that every reaction is shared together with the audience.

The theater is managed by Hal Schulman, who does a bit of everything - from booking acts to pouring wine to running sound and lighting.

“I live in Prospect Heights. Adam lives in Carroll Gardens, Dan in Boerum Hill. It’s a lot of heart and a small team, but we make it work every week.”

Rather than creating distance between performer and audience, this format pulls you directly into the experience. You’re not watching magic from afar - you’re part of it.

Hal and the team bring in magicians from around the world - many of whom are deeply respected within the magic community but not necessarily mainstream names.

“The people who are the best magicians in the world aren’t necessarily the ones that are on TV or TikTok. The magic world is very small… we’re lucky enough to call a lot of these folks friends.”

Hal shared a few recent examples of the kind of talent they bring in - from Denis Behr (Munich), known for his precision and mastery of card magic, to Inés (Spain), part of a rich tradition where sleight of hand is treated as high art, to Shimpei (Japan), a classically trained violinist who performs silent, music-driven magic set to composers like Franz Liszt.

The show I attended featured Cuiffo & Sobelle (Something Amazing, March 2026), NYC-based performers who blend classic magic with unexpected moments. They are artists who have spent years refining sleight of hand, storytelling, and performance.

Every person in the audience was invited to participate in some way - my guest held onto a fully concealed card throughout the trick, yet it was revealed at the end with no obvious explanation. Another moment involved a participant who, with eyes shut, sensed exactly where someone else had been tapped - after the two shared personal memories and seemed to connect on a deeper, almost mysterious level.

Part of what makes the experience so memorable is how little you’re told going in. Guests are often brought by friends with no explanation of what’s about to happen.

Hal says: “I’m just a great believer in… under promise, over deliver. And so when people walk in and all they think is they’re looking at a really cool store and they’re sipping wine, but it’s getting kind of crowded. And then eventually the evening transforms and transpires into an hour in the company of the world’s finest sleight of hand.”

In a city that can often feel commercial and fast-moving, 69 Atlantic offers something different - intimate, thoughtful, and playfully mysterious.

69 Atlantic

Shows run every evening Wednesday - Saturday. Sign up to their mailing list to get notified of new shows every Wednesday.

69 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn

(Next to Montero Bar & Grill - between Hicks St & Furman St)

In honor of Joseph Pilates Day, Studio Pilates Cobble Hill is offering free 45-minute orientation workouts all day long. Each class is led by one of our instructors who will give every single person in the room 1:1 attention throughout. Whether you've been curious to try us or you've never stepped on a reformer, this is your invitation to experience what we do, no commitment, no cost.

Reserve Your Spot Today!

Space is limited

At Studio Pilates, we honor that legacy through every class — with reformer-based workouts designed to challenge and restore, whatever your level.

What to expect from your orientation workout

Your free orientation is a 45-minute reformer class led by one of our expert instructors. You’ll become familiarized with how we run our classes at Studio Pilates with the kind of personalized attention that makes every cue relevant to your body. No experience required — just show up ready to have fun and move your body.

On the day of, we will have a special Intro Offer available for new clients, 10% off class packs (available to new and current clients), raffles and more!

Reserve your Spot Today - Space is Limited

See you on the reformer!

Studio Pilates Cobble Hill

262 Pacific Street, Brooklyn, NY

917-699-6545 cobblehill@studiopilates.com

Thank you to Studio Pilates

Sponsored content like this allows Cobble Hill Collective to continue delivering top-quality local coverage to our community. Your support helps fund our dedicated writers. Interested in advertising with Cobble Hill Collective? Contact us to learn more about partnership opportunities.

Here’s what’s happening this week:

✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨

• Prince St. Pizza Now Open on Smith Street! Bringing its cult-favorite slices to Brooklyn with its first borough location TODAY, April 23 at 12pm. The first 25 guests in line will get a $25 credit and if you show up in Sergio Tacchini gear during opening week, you’ll also get a complimentary slice as part of their collaboration. Known for their iconic SoHo Squares and the spicy pepperoni “Spicy Spring,” the new shop doubles the oven capacity of the original Prince Street Pizza. Check out our sneak peek HERE and stop by for the official opening!

• Books Are Magic is teaming up with Stumptown Coffee Roasters for a new quarterly subscription pairing a thoughtfully selected book with a bag of single-origin coffee. Sign up by April 30 to get in on their first release.

• Longtime Sam’s Restaurant, Cobble Hill’s oldest restaurant, founded in 1930, is getting a new chapter as Australian industry vet Georgia Eve Fulton steps in to reimagine the space alongside owner Lou. Fulton, who previously spent 12 years as a server at Long Island Bar, brings deep neighborhood roots to the project. The collaboration has been years in the making and marks an exciting evolution for the Court Street favorite.

  

• The long-abandoned “Spite House” in Brooklyn Heights is finally hitting the market for $15 million after sitting vacant for decades. The historic brownstone still holds original details but will need major restoration.

✨ Continue reading our ‘Cobble Hill Insider’ section at the bottom just for paid subscribers who want to stay a step ahead - soft openings & exclusives!

Do you have a story we should be sharing? 🗞️ Submit your tip anonymously here, or email us

Our Top Picks

Events with an asterisk* tend to sell out- reserve tickets early!

Today, April 23:

Queer Night @ Mister Cheeks (7:00pm-10:00pm): Mister Cheeks is hosting their first ever Queer Night! Expect a fun, welcoming night with wine, beer, and soft serve.

Needlepoint Club @ Bond Craft Studio (6:30pm-8:00pm): Join a relaxed and creative evening at Bond Craft Studio’s free Needlepoint Club meetup, open to adults of all skill levels. RSVP in advance HERE.

Friday, April 24:

Abs with Abbz Mat Pilates Class @ DUMBO (8:00am): Start your morning strong with a 45-minute outdoor mat Pilates class in DUMBO (full location shared upon RSVP). Spots are limited at $10 HERE, book ahead and bring your mat!

A Deep Dive on Aromatic Intensity in Wine @ Liz’s Book Bar (7:00pm-8:30pm)*: Enjoy a unique wine tasting class exploring some of the world’s most aromatic grapes, from muscat to sauvignon blanc. Led by sommelier James Sligh, the evening blends education with five curated tastings and an interactive deep dive into the history and perception of wine. RSVP HERE.

Weekend Event:

Market for Makers @ Industry City (April 25-26, 10:00am-5:00pm): Markets for Makers is back at Industry City for a spring weekend, featuring 90+ curated vendors across fashion, art, home, food, and more. Expect DIY stations, a photo booth, and plenty of food and drink in a fun, family friendly setting with free entry for kids under 12. Tickets start at $6 with VIP options for early access and extra perks HERE. (Use code PARKSLOPE20 for 20% off your ticket!)

Saturday, April 25:

Brooklyn Bridge Park Earth Day Celebration @ Brooklyn Bridge Park (11:00am-3:00pm): Enjoy a full day of family-friendly activities like nature walks, hands-on crafts, composting demos, and even fabric dyeing. There’s something for all ages throughout the park. Check their page for the full schedule and details.

Earth Week Celebration with Electric Lady Florals @ Harris Home (12:00pm-3:00pm): Celebrate Earth Week with Electric Lady Florals and Harris Home. Expect fresh bouquets, single stem blooms, and light refreshments, with a portion of proceeds supporting BloomAgainBklyn. Stop by for a thoughtful way to shop seasonal flowers while giving back locally.

Kids’ Poetry Minicourse @ Poetry Society of America (10:30am-11:30am): Five consecutive Saturday poetry workshops starts this week (4/25-5/23) geared toward children in grades 2–6. Students will explore a variety of forms, ideas, and exercises to engage the imagination in the service of composing poems, culminating in an optional reading for families and friends and the opportunity to share work on the Poetry Society’s website. Sign up HERE.

Sunday, April 26:

Pelvic Floor Focused Prenatal Yoga workshop @ Tangerine Yoga (4:15pm-5:45pm): This workshop features a gentle, supportive flow followed by a Q&A with a specialized pelvic floor physical therapist. A great option for expecting moms looking to move, learn, and connect. Book your spot HERE.

Flower Workshop with Daisyhead Studio @ Saturn Road (6:00pm)*: Learn to create your own spring arrangement for a hands-on flower workshop. Tickets include a small arrangement, plus all materials, and a selection of beautiful local spring blooms to take home. Tickets HERE.

Book these popular events in advance:

Mother’s Day Maker Night @ Dawn’s ‘Til Dusk (Tuesday, May 5, 7:00pm-9:30pm)*: Join four incredibly talented artisans for a hands-on workshop where you’ll explore design, calligraphy, cookie decorating, and floral arranging all in one experience. Learn from experts like Minhee Cho, Jenna Yasgur, Tiffany Canuelas, and Ha Na Choi, and leave with your own custom creations.

Submit an event to be considered for this weekly events roundup!

Neighborhood Job Board

Each week we publish a new job board link featuring local openings from Cobble Hill and nearby businesses. Add your summer jobs for locals here - listing is free!

This week: 30+ local jobs including Marketing Coordinator at Brooklyn Grange, Social Media Manager at The Six Bells, Director of Development & Institutional Advancement at Brooklyn Arts Council

View Neighborhood Jobs

List a job for free | Subscribe for free to get the weekly job board in your inbox

✨ Cobble Hill Insider ✨

This week’s Insider section includes:

A new wine bar & pizza spot from the Confidant team is quietly in the works - GM role listed below also! • A new diner and a day to night café & wine bar coming to Carroll Gardens • A new high-intensity Pilates-style studio is coming to Brooklyn Heights with a special presale now live

Read more

Here’s what’s happening this week:

✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨

• Bar Ferdinando Now Open! Sal Lamboglia’s latest venture, Bar Ferdinando, officially opened yesterday in Carroll Gardens. The all-day spot pairs a front counter of standout pastries with a menu of snackable bites alongside a full dinner service.

• High Beam Coffee has soft-opened in the former Local Roots space, bringing thoughtfully sourced coffee from Selina Ullrich. We stopped by during the soft opening and shared more from our visit over on our recent Instagram post.

• The Red Hook Brooklyn Film Festival returns for its third year this May, expanding into a ten-day celebration of film, creativity, and community. With new outdoor screenings on a 32-foot screen, multiple venues, and a growing lineup of filmmakers.

• A Cobble Hill townhouse owned by Daniel Craig and Rachel Weisz has sold for nearly $12 million (a major return on their original purchase). The four-story Strong Place home spans roughly 6,600 square feet and features a deep backyard, modern upgrades, and classic brownstone charm.

  

• Announced by Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the New York City Department of Transportation, center-running bus lanes are coming to Flatbush Avenue, with work set to begin in late April between Livingston Street and Grand Army Plaza.

• The Dumbo Projection Project returns for its seventh edition this May, transforming the neighborhood into a massive outdoor gallery with nightly video art projections.

• Boerum Hill’s historic Public School 15 Annex has officially been designated as a new individual landmark by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. The 1889 Romanesque Revival building was recognized for both its architectural significance and role in expanding education for women, immigrants, and working-class New Yorkers.

✨ Continue reading our ‘Cobble Hill Insider’ section at the bottom just for paid subscribers who want to stay a step ahead - soft openings & exclusives!

Do you have a story we should be sharing? 🗞️ Submit your tip anonymously here, or email us

Our Top Picks

Events with an asterisk* tend to sell out- reserve tickets early!

Today, April 16:

Vinyl & Vino with Legacy @ Saint James Libations (8:00pm-12:00am): Saint James Libations is hosting this vinyl-driven night. Expect a laid back atmosphere with music from Legacy Ali and a steady flow of wine. No frills, just good records and good drinks, no RSVP required.

Friday, April 17

Queer Yoga @ GTHR (7:00pm)*: GTHR is hosting their monthly queer yoga session, bringing together a welcoming, community focused class for all experience levels. The evening pairs a 60 minute practice with time to unwind and connect afterward. Save your spot HERE.

Social Open Play with 7th Street Burger @ Velto Pickleball Club (9:00pm-midnight): This fun new social event is a high-energy night of open play. Open to all skill levels, the evening promises pickleball, music, and plenty of burgers. Join the waitlist HERE.

Weekend Event:

Grand Opening— The Green-House at Green-Wood (Saturday April 18th, 10am-5pm & Sunday April 19th, 10am-3pm): Join Green-Wood for an unforgettable opening weekend as they celebrate their newest space with activities designed to delight visitors of all ages. From hands-on workshops to guided explorations, these programs offer something for everyone to discover, learn, and connect with this exciting addition to their historic grounds. FREE (RSVP recommended).

Saturday, April 18:

Downtown Brooklyn Car-Free Earth Day @ Albee Square (12:00pm-3:00pm): Expect a full afternoon of music, movement, and activities. From bike lessons and fitness challenges to art workshops and eco-friendly crafts, the event brings together a wide mix of ways to celebrate sustainability and community. Full details HERE.

Clothing Swap n’ Drop @ Urban Meadow Community Garden (11:00am-2:00pm): Kick off Spring and spend the afternoon connecting over sustainability. You’ll trade styles, donate clothes, and the event also features a composting lesson and a tie-dye workshop. RSVP HERE.

MOUV x Joe & The Juice Wellness Club (12:15pm)*: MOUV is teaming up with Joe & The Juice for a Wellness Club event featuring reformer and mat classes alongside music, smoothies, and light bites. Expect a curated afternoon blending movement, community, and recovery. Save your spot HERE.

Sunday, April 19:

Art of the Croissant Workshop @ Atelier Ariana (10:00am-1:00pm)*: The Art of the Croissant for a hands-on baking workshop led by Chef Ariana. Over the course of three hours, you’ll learn the full process behind classic viennoiserie, from laminating dough to shaping croissants and pains au chocolat. This is the last one until the fall! Tickets HERE.

Spring Sample Sale @ Liz’s Book Bar (11:00am-4:00pm)*: Enjoy a full day of discounted books, an ARC giveaway, and a lively neighborhood atmosphere. Browse and stick around for a food pop-up from Sisi’s Little Tarts and the Brooklyn Granary & Mill.

Monday, April 20:

Half-Baked 420 Event with Yerba Buena @ Cobble Hill Cinemas (7:30pm): Celebrate 4/20 with the second installment of Yerba Buena’s Cinema Series: a private screening of Half Baked at Cobble Hill Cinemas. Guests will enjoy an evening featuring complimentary popcorn, trivia, prizes, gift bags, and more for $15 per ticket.

Submit an event to be considered for this weekly events roundup!

Neighborhood Job Board

Each week we publish a new job board link featuring local openings from Cobble Hill and nearby businesses. Add your summer jobs for locals here - listing is free!

This week: 26 local jobs including at Street Lab, Grow NYC, TOAST, Raaka Chocolate

View Neighborhood Jobs

List a job for free | Subscribe for free to get the weekly job board in your inbox

✨ Cobble Hill Insider ✨

This week’s Insider section includes:

Third location for popular Brooklyn bakery known for their award-winning croissants is arriving on Flatbush Ave • Mini Series filming in local park • New Downtown Brooklyn park announced

Read more

As Brooklyn parents, we are always searching for summer experiences that spark joy, build confidence, and help our kids grow, and Child’s Play NY continues to deliver. Since 2009, this beloved program, founded by a local parent, has offered rich theater arts experiences that center kids’ development as both humans and artists. Their week-long camps invite children to dive deep into themes they love while building creative and life skills that last far beyond summer.

Child’s Play NY is more than a theater camp. It is a place where kids become storytellers, collaborators, and brave performers. Designed for pre-K through middle school, each session is thoughtfully crafted to ignite imagination and nurture essential skills. From beloved musicals like Wicked, classics like Harry Potter and new stories like K-Pop Demon Hunters, campers step into vibrant adventures while building friendships and confidence.

What Makes Child’s Play NY Special?

Professional Theater Artists as Teachers
Camps are led by expert teaching artists with deep experience nurturing young performers. With small groups capped at 12 to 14 campers, every child receives individualized attention. Campers experience the same award-winning curriculum used in the many schools Child’s Play NY partners with throughout the year.

Fresh, Inspiring Themes
Whether your child wants to belt out songs, create original characters, or re-tell their favorite stories, there is a theme to match every interest. Camps are grouped by age so content stays engaging and developmentally appropriate.

Skill-Building Through Play
Theater is a powerful tool for building confidence, communication, and resilience. Child’s Play NY has collaborated with developmental psychologists to design games that strengthen executive function and social-emotional skills. Campers practice teamwork, creativity, and empathy while growing as artists.

Joyful Performances
Each week ends with a celebratory showcase where campers share their creations with family and friends. These performances highlight every child’s unique contributions while helping them build focus, memory, and stage presence, a wonderful boost heading into the school year.

Click here to learn more

Sessions for Every Age and Stage

Players Series for Pre-K to 1st Grade
Building off iconic stories and shows, campers develop their own stories based on characters from a specific theme. They use games and improvisations to build new adventures while learning songs and choreography too. Sessions include: Under the Sea, Frozen Adventures, Camp Zootopia, Pride Rock and more.

Showmakers Series for Grades 2-5: Whether working toward a Shakespeare scene showcase, or rehearsing an original play, these ensembles learn the thrill of performance culminating in a live show. Sessions include: Land of Oz, K-Pop Demon Drama, Hogwarts School, Midsummer and more!

Acting Ensemble for Middle School - Grades 6-8: Older campers can immerse themselves in sophisticated scripted scene work and musical theater in camps. These experiences are perfect for theater enthusiasts ready to take the stage.

Why Parents Love It

Families consistently share five star camp reviews like these:

“Love this program. My child has participated in summer camps for the last two years and has had such a fulfilling experience. The teachers are warm and engaging, and clearly know how to bring a group of kids together to work towards a common goal.”

“My 8 year old son had an amazing experience at the week-long Child’s Play summer camp. He has been shy or nervous at other camps, but from the first day he was at ease and excited at Child’s Play. He felt supported, challenged, and invigorated by the work the group did together. The minute he came off stage at the end of the week performance, he said, ‘Sign me up for next summer!’”

Ready to Join the Fun?

Registration for summer camps is now open, and sessions fill quickly. Visit childsplayny.com to explore themes, and secure your child’s spot for a summer full of creativity, confidence, and joy.

Photo Credit: HMPhotoshoots.

Thank you to Child’s Play NY!

Sponsored content like this allows Cobble Hill Collective to continue delivering top-quality local coverage to our community. Your support helps fund our dedicated writers. Interested in advertising with Cobble Hill Collective? Contact us to learn more about partnership opportunities.

Here’s what’s happening this week:

✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨

• In case you missed it, we shared back in December that the team behind Ingas Bar is expanding into Boerum Hill at the former Café Kitsuné corner. Now, the upcoming spot has been revealed as Lonnies, with a new Instagram account hinting at what’s to come.

• Filming for Hulu’s suspense thriller “Count My Lies” is ongoing in the Brooklyn Heights area. Starring Lindsay Lohan, Kit Harington, and Shailene Woodley, the production has transformed local spots like Plymouth Church and Orange Street.

• Bar Bruno at 520 Henry Street is back! revamped by the team behind Greenpoint Fish & Lobster Co. The updated concept brings a brand new menu with plenty of fresh seafood additions.

• Oldest NYC Choclatier opens permanent spot in Sahadi’s. Li-Lac Chocolates opens a permanent outpost. The new counter features the brand’s signature confections, expect classic truffles and buttercrunch to seasonal specialties.

• The Service Collective launches a new North Brooklyn Community Club. This will be a weekly after-school program for kids ages 10–14 focused on hands-on volunteer work and community impact. Learn more details and how to register here.

• A major redevelopment plan is in the works for the former Jehovah’s Witness Watchtower complex in nearby Brooklyn Heights. The proposal includes over 600 apartments, with a portion designated as affordable housing - though it’s still in early stages and will require rezoning approvals.

✨ Continue reading our ‘Cobble Hill Insider’ section at the bottom just for paid subscribers who want to stay a step ahead - soft openings & exclusives!

Do you have a story we should be sharing? 🗞️ Submit your tip anonymously here, or email us

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Our Top Picks

Events with an asterisk* tend to sell out- reserve tickets early!

Today, April 9:

Brooklyn Fine Art Print Fair (BFAPF) VIP Opening @ Powerhouse Arts (6:00pm-9:00pm)*: The Brooklyn Fine Art Print Fair returns for its second year, bringing together over 50 international exhibitors. Expect a vibrant lineup of galleries, artists, and studios alongside daily talks, live demos, and special exhibitions. Their VIP night is April 9, with the fair running through April 12. Tickets HERE.

Stitch Night with Bobble Club House and Gotham Knits @ Fabrik DUMBO (6:00pm-8:30pm): Enjoy a cozy, creative night in the heart of DUMBO. Whether you knit, crochet, or have always wanted to but never picked up a hook or needle in your life: This one’s for you 🧶💖 Come stitch, snack, and connect in one of Brooklyn’s most beautiful community spaces. Tickets HERE.

The Silver Fish with author Connor Martin @ Barnes & Noble Atlantic Avenue (6:30pm): Enjoy a special evening with Connor Martin celebrating his debut thriller. Expect a live conversation and a chance to dive into this fast-paced espionage story set on the global stage.

Friday, April 10

Debut Novel Night by Sackett Street Writers Workshop @ Powerhouse Arena (7:00pm-9:00pm): This evening features readings and conversation celebrating five alumni authors with newly published novels. Hosted by founder Julia Fierro, the event offers a chance to hear from emerging voices in contemporary fiction and connect with one of Brooklyn’s most influential writing communities. Tickets HERE.

Saturday, April 11:

Pizza party with Teddy Wolff @ Popina (12:00pm-3:00pm)*: Enjoy an afternoon of pizza and wine specials as Teddy Wolff brings the energy and pizza oven for a laid-back classic pizza party vibe. RSVP HERE.

Sunday, April 12:

Court Street Spring Fair @ Court St between Union & 9th Street (10am - 6pm): Explore unique arts & crafts vendors, international food and exciting bounce house fun for the kids, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Mamacha Empanacha @ Anaïs Wine Bar (12:00pm-sold out)*: Enjoy an afternoon featuring pairings of warm, handmade Peruvian empanadas with chilled natural wines. RSVP HERE.

Multi-Day Events:

Brooklyn Makes FAD Market @ Empire Stores (April 11-12 from 11:00am to 6:00pm): Celebrate the start of spring at the FAD Market Brooklyn Makes pop-up. Featuring over 35 Brooklyn-based makers, this curated market brings together handmade goods, art, and local flavors.

Brooklyn Heights Run Club has shared their April lineup of community runs, including a new Sunday morning sunrise run at Ferrane Bakery and Thursday evening sunset runs at Black Bull and Congress Bar. Check out full details and how you can participate here.

Submit an event to be considered for this weekly events roundup!

Neighborhood Job Board

Each week we publish a new job board link featuring local openings from Cobble Hill and nearby businesses. Listing is free and takes under 2 minutes.

This week: Summer jobs, Trudie’s Tavern (from the Gertie & Gertrude’s Restaurant team), Powerhouse Arts

View Neighborhood Jobs

List a job for free | Subscribe for free to get the weekly job board in your inbox

✨ Cobble Hill Insider ✨

This week’s Insider section includes:

Popular Film Festival returns this May • Famous Movie Director lists dreamy Cobble Hill townhouse • Major Downtown Brooklyn development moves forward

Read more

Nick Bello is a writer and photographer based in Park Slope. He loves to capture local scenery as well as research local history. Follow him on Instagram @nbello8 or on substack at:

South Brooklyn History

Discovering history in and around South Brooklyn 📚

By Nick Bello

There is a manhole cover at the intersection of Court Street and Atlantic Avenue that thousands of cars and people walk over every day, unaware of what lies just beneath their feet and tires. A lot of Brooklyn history remains buried in the ground below us, forgotten stories reduced to layers of sediment that hold up the present. A man named Bob Diamond knew something had to be under that manhole cover, and when he found it, he spent the majority of his life trying to educate the public about its existence. He became consumed by what it was and could be, scrapping together money to bring it back to life. Today it remains lost, yet again.

A Railroad Beneath Brooklyn

In the mid 1800s, Brooklyn had an issue when it came to trains hitting pedestrians in the street. Trains, which were operated by the Long Island Railroad from the ferry crossing at the bottom of Atlantic Avenue to the to Jamaica station, operated on city streets during this period and lacked the braking ability required for dealing with pedestrians crossing busy streets, leading to multiple deaths. The tipping point came in 1839, when two children were killed according to an article in the Journal of Long Island History. In 1844 an idea to build a tunnel beneath the street was hatched by the Long Island Railroad under Cornelius Vanderbilt, leading to what would become the world’s first subway tunnel ever constructed. To complete this ambitious project for that time, engineers used what is called the cut and cover method. This method is one of the oldest ways of tunnel making as it was how the Romans constructed their tunnels. It involves digging a trench, constructing the tunnel in that trench and then covering the tunnel. While this may have been disruptive as it involves digging a giant trench in the middle of the street, it was the most cost effective way to go about this tall task.

The tunnel took seven months to construct, and crews of mostly Irish and other immigrant workers used hand tools and other rudimentary tools to construct the tunnel. The tunnel was constructed at the cost of some lives. In May, an Irish worker murdered a foreman over a dispute about the workers frequent distraction from his work to visit a priest. The worker drew a gun and shot the foreman in cold blood. Later that year, a man fell from the street level into the trench and workers were buried alive when the tunnel caved in on them.

The Atlantic Avenue tunnel opened on December 4, 1844 with a large celebration at noon. Five train cars filled with people who had a hand in the project passed through the tunnel to celebrate the occasion. In a speech by George B. Fisk, the then president of the Long Island Railroad, the public was thanked for their cooperation during the rather loud and inconvenient months that the residents of Atlantic Avenue had to endure.

Operation And Closure

The tunnel operated smoothly for a number of years after it opened. This was the first time Long Island and Boston would be connected via rail link as trains from Boston would terminate at the southern tip of Manhattan and passengers would board ferries to Brooklyn and take trains through the tunnel and to Jamaica station. They could then board trains to the outer parts of Long Island. This avoided the building of long and costly bridges across the Long Island Sound. This also brought a lot of business to Brooklyn which was developing into a commercial hub. Eventually the tunnel’s operation would meet its end. In the 1850s, residents along Atlantic Avenue complained that the smoke emanating from the tunnel’s ventilation shafts polluted the air. It is also believed that the Litchfield brothers, who we spoke about in this article in Park slope Living and were railroad moguls, had their hand in stopping the operation. It is rumored that the Litchfield’s, primarily Electus, lobbied the local population against the railroad so they could exploit the situation for their own financial gain.

In 1857, the famed poet Walt Whitman had fallen on hard times after publishing his first book Leaves of Grass and was writing for local papers to supplement his income. Whitman reported on this matter as local officials were in the early stages of creating an act to ban the usage of the tunnel. In an article for the Brooklyn Daily Times he said:

“We trust that the minority report will be promptly rejected and that the Com. Council will not plunge into any such quixotic measures as its president suggests. We do not believe either that it can or should plunge the city into a contest at law with the Long Island railroad company—for this is in short what the Atlantic street people invite us to. Doubtless it may be more convenient to the persons residing on the street that they should have a line of city horse-cars there instead of locomotives; but the interest of the city at large points in the contrary direction. The railroad has contributed to populating the island, and to build up even Atlantic street itself. It needs no argument to prove that to abolish the use of steam would be to diminish traveling facilities on the road, and to avert benefits which every such line must confer on the locality at its terminus. Nor is this all: other public companies who might have been disposed to invest their money here will pause when they observe our municipal authorities acting harshly towards this company, and disposed even to stretch a point to annoy them. One of the best things that can happen to a growing city like Brooklyn is to have her affairs administered in a liberal and even indulgent spirit toward those who invest their capital and energies in building up her trade, and increasing her commercial importance. No greater misfortune can befall us than to have manufacturers snubbed and “monopolies” denounced and annoyed in every conceivable manner, at the whim and beck of every one who may deem himself injured by them.”

What Whitman was getting at here is that this was a case of what we would call NIMBYism today. In 1859, the city of New York passed an act that prevented the usage of steam locomotives in Brooklyn, ending the use of the Atlantic Avenue tunnel. Almost simultaneously, Electus begins plans for a horse-drawn railroad that would operate at street level above the Atlantic Avenue tunnel, showing his direct benefit from the situation. The tunnel openings were sealed in 1861, 17 years after it opened and it would remain sealed for more than a century.

Conspiracy

There was a lot of mystique about the tunnel in the years that it closed. Whitman revisited the tunnel in 1862 in his series Brooklyniana which was published in the Brooklyn Standard. In the article, he yearns for the day where the tunnel was up and running, describing how much of a feat it was that it could take you from the bottom of Atlantic Ave and bring you all the way to the quaint towns of Long Island. While Whitman yearned, others saw the tunnel as the place for conspiracy theories and even fictional tales like The Horror at Red Hook by H.P. Lovecraft. The tunnel’s closure did leave it a great place for nefarious activities, as evidence proves that it was most likely used as a place to make and store bootleg alcohol during Prohibition.

The one story that led to its rediscovery in the 1980s was a theory that the tunnel housed a steam engine which contained the lost pages of John Wilkes Booth, the infamous assassin who killed President Abraham Lincoln at Ford’s Theater. Booth was one of the best actors at that time in America and was also known to be a Confederate operative. After he killed Lincoln, he evaded being caught and fled Washington D.C. and headed south towards Virginia and intended to reach Richmond, the Confederate capitol. However, Booth had broken his leg when he fell from the balcony in Ford’s Theater after killing Lincoln, which inhibited his ability to travel as fast as he would have liked. Eventually federal troops caught up to him in Virginia, just over the Maryland border. Booth was surrounded in a barn and eventually killed. In the time after Booth died, the circumstances around his death were subject to conspiracy theories. Some believed the person that was killed was not Booth and that he escaped. Some also fixated on his diary, which was found on him when he died, and how it was missing some pages that appeared to be torn out. Some theories suggest that Booth burned the pages himself, while others suggest that then Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton, removed the pages as he was trying to ensure that Booth would never become a hero. Another theory however suggests that the pages are in a blocked off section of the tunnel. It is true that Booth was in Brooklyn as well for a period, performing at the Brooklyn Academy of music (then located on Montague Street), in the fall of 1863. Whether or not Booth was here as an operative for the Confederacy is unknown.

This theory appeared on a radio show where a man from Brooklyn named Bob Diamond first heard of it. Diamond had just withdrawn from the Pratt Institute, where he was an engineering student and became entranced by the story. He sought out to find the tunnel and the lost diary pages, and he was able to pinpoint its location by using maps and information from the New York Public Library. The only question now was how to get access to the tunnel. Diamond was able to find one possible access point, which was below a manhole cover at the intersection of Court Street and Atlantic Avenue. He gained permission from the city to go looking, dropping down the manhole cover in one of Brooklyn’s busiest intersections. When he got down there, it was dark, cramped and mostly covered with dirt. However, Diamond did find a narrow space that headed west, which he shimmied his way down and eventually found a brick arch. Diamond was eventually able to clear the space and bust through the brick wall before dropping a rope ladder down. What he found was not just awe inspiring, but exactly what he had been looking for. He compared the experience in interviews years later to landing on the moon or like Indiana Jones in the Raiders of the Lost Ark. Nearly 120 years after it was sealed up, the tunnel had been rediscovered.

Bringing the Rails Back to Brooklyn

With his newfound prize, Diamond set out to bring it back to its former glory. Him and a small crew cleared out the pathway to the tunnel and added in a proper ladder so they could explore it. The tunnel was a treasure trove of artifacts from Brooklyn’s past, which Diamond collected to show people. He eventually got the city’s permission to start giving tours of the tunnel and quickly people started to turn out in numbers to see this new discovery. In 1982, Diamond established the Brooklyn Historic Railway Association (BHRA) and hoped to complete a lifelong dream of bringing back street trolleys to Brooklyn. The tunnel would serve as part of the experience and would serve as a station along the route. In 1989, the tunnel was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its legacy and that it would remain intact for years to come.

In the 1990s, Diamond and the BHRA began buying up old trolley’s and storing them in a warehouse in Red Hook where they had worked out a deal and did not have to pay rent. Brooklyn residents were in love with the idea of bringing street cars back and as a result, Diamond was able to secure $300,000 in federal and local grants to fund his plan. The tours of the tunnel were doing well as well which provided more funding. They began laying tracks along the waterfront in Red Hook and created a transformer that used the city’s electrical system for power to operate the trolley’s. The first ride was operated in May of 1997, but it could only go 600 feet but was deemed a success to Diamond as he was relieved that nothing catastrophic had happened.

Around this time, Diamond was heralded as a local hero, appearing on tv and in the press. However, all of the popularity was not enough to get his project off the ground as a lack of private donations and the rapid development in the area put an end to Diamond’s grand plan. In 2002, the city withdrew its support of the project, the first domino to fall in what would lead to the tumultuous end of Diamond’s dream. The next year, the owner of the warehouse in Red Hook where Diamond kept his trains evicted him and the city began removing some of the track in Red Hook. Later that year, Diamond was arrested after emerging from a tour in the tunnel because the city had revoked his permission to operate in the tunnel. Diamond had sunk a lot of his own money into the project and when the city pulled the plug it was devastating for him. The city contended that they were facing budget issues and the project, though a nice idea, was no longer feasible. To make matters worse, Diamond contended a lot with city officials and even with his own crew, his single mindedness did not earn him any favors.

By 2004, the BHRA was relegated to just a warehouse in Red Hook. A New York Times reporter went to see Diamond, who showed him the shortest trolley ride in the world, which was just up and down the few feet of tracks Diamond had in the warehouse. He eventually moved to New Jersey with his girlfriend and began abusing alcohol and drugs as a way to cope with what had happened to him. He eventually cleaned himself up, and moved back to Brooklyn in 2006. In 2007, the city offered to let Diamond begin doing tours of the tunnel again and he would do so for the next three years.

The End of the Dream

When Diamond was allowed back into the tunnel, he came with a new found pursuit to try and find the lost train that had sparked his desire to find the tunnel in the first place. He put more of his own money towards this mission, since he now didn’t have to worry about finding the rail line. Diamond came close to a breakthrough and with that came attention from tv and film producers. In 2010, Diamond signed a contract with National Geographic for a documentary about the search. Once again the city shut Diamond out of the tunnel and the documentary could not be done. The city cited that it was a fire hazard as the one entrance via a ladder could be dangerous in an emergency. Diamond sued the city for them cancelling the contract but a judge ruled against him, citing they were well within their right to do so.

In 2011, engineering consultants who were working with ground penetrating radar along Atlantic Avenue discovered a metal anomaly where the tunnel was. The anomaly, according to an article in the Brooklyn Paper, was 20 feet long and most likely could be the lost train that Diamond had been looking for. Diamond told the Brooklyn Paper, “If I could get back down into the tunnel I would be digging with my teeth and fingernails trying to get at that thing.” He finished by saying, “It will make my lifelong mission in life fulfilled.”

Diamond passed away at the age of 62 in 2021 after dealing with a virus. He was eulogized in the New York Times and many other outlets, who considered him a visionary and advocate. In the years before his death, Diamond worked as a consultant and helped to advise the Brooklyn-Queens Connector (BQX), which was a street car line that would go along the East River from 59th Street in Sunset Park all the way to Astoria. The plan, which was supported by then Mayor Bill DeBlasio, had some legs in the late 2010s as studies were done to determine its feasibility. The plan was terminated however with the end of DeBlasio’s tenure as mayor.

What Lies Forgotten

Discovery and explorations are two addictive things that not many people who have walked this earth have gotten to experience. Think about how many people have been to outer space, or have seen untouched parts of this earth. Many do not get to experience these feelings that make us feel small and human, especially in the confines of our own borough. It is easy to write off Bob Diamond as a dreamer who let his dreams consume him and ultimately destroy him. But looking at him through that lens is dull, and in a world filled with people who do not pursue their desires because of fear, there needs to be more Bob Diamond’s in the world. If we do not decide to pursue the unknown, we will have lost the completely human and euphoric feeling of discovery. There is a manhole cover at the intersection of Court Street and Atlantic Avenue that thousands of cars and people walk over every day, and it is up to the next generation to discover what lies beneath it.

Treasure Trunk welcomes children into a world of imagination, creative play, social emotional learning and magic…right in your neighborhood! We know how busy families are, and how challenging it can be to make summer schedules work. That is where we come in! We offer endless customizable programming, to meet the needs of every family. Whether you need early drop off, a partial day, or a late pick-up, we’ve got you covered.

Founded by a local mom of 2, Treasure Trunk Theatre provides a joyful space to play, learn, and grow. We offer summer camp options for kids 3-12 years old at Treasure Trunk. For 13 years, Treasure Trunk has developed a program that centers each child’s unique voice through a process-based curriculum, boosting and celebrating the confidence of every kiddo who walks through our doors.

Join us at a camp location near you – Treasure Trunk Atlantic Ave Studio, St. Paul’s Church (Cobble Hill), or Pilates Heights!

Get in on the magic! Camp Offerings include:

☀️Summer Camps for ages 3-6

When school is out, the Trunk is open! Whether your child already enjoys performing or is a bit more hesitant, our camps will boost their confidence and encourage them to celebrate themselves. Curriculums focus on dramatic play, dance & movement, unique crafts, developing empathetic connection & fostering social-emotional learning skills, while exploring beloved themes that your kids will be over the moon about.

☀️Co-Lab Summer Camps for ages 6-8

This “next level” camp series includes a variety of weeks, focused on different aspects of the theatre world. From Shakespeare to musical theatre and more – we encourage our community of growing Treasure Trunkers to experience it all to find their individual passion. Whether your kiddo loves the spotlight, has a knack for crafting incredible costumes, or is destined to direct…there is something for everyone this summer!

🎶Full Scale Summer Musical Intensives for 6-12 (only at St. Pauls’)

For our older students who are looking for an exciting “next step” in their theatrical experience, we offer musical intensives with all the opportunities your budding actor could want - daily training in the art of theater. Kiddos in our 2-week musical theatre intensives can choose from two different experiences this summer: joining the cast of Junie B. Jones the Musical or creating their own musical from the ground up in Make a Musical. All of our musical experiences are led by professionals in their own field, with inspiration and wonderful wisdom to share with your growing performer!

Classes and camps are also available at our other studios: Treasure Trunk Park Slope (179 4th Ave) and Treasure Trunk Prospect Heights (700 Washington Ave).

For more information, visit our website, treasuretrunktheatre.com, or contact us at info@treasuretrunktheatre.com. Follow us on Instagram at @treasuretrunktheatre

Thank you to Treasure Trunk Theatre

Sponsored content like this allows Cobble Hill Collective to continue delivering top-quality local coverage to our community. Your support helps fund our dedicated writers. Interested in advertising with Cobble Hill Collective? Contact us to learn more about partnership opportunities.

Here’s what’s happening this week:

✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨

• The Taqueria Ramirez team is expanding to the Carrol Gardens neighborhood, with their Smith Street location opening soon. We cannot wait to have this beloved Brooklyn taco spot join the area!

• Candor Candy Now Open! This independently owned and operated candy store has hit the Fort Greene area with a wide selection of curated sweets, snacks and plenty of candy.

• Montague Open Streets returns starting May 17, bringing a lineup of local businesses, pop-ups, and community programming to Brooklyn Heights throughout the spring and early summer. Want to participate as a Montague merchant? Merchants can participate for free, get details and sign up here.

• After the fire in Red Hook last fall, Lanoba Design is making a comeback with a brand-new 9,500-square-foot showroom at 6 Waverly Avenue (across from Brooklyn Navy Yard), opening April 11.

• A new Mexican restaurant is in the works, taking over the former Gran Electrica space at 5 Front Street. The project comes from Julian Brizzi, the owner behind Celestine and Grand Army, and is targeting an early June opening.

✨ Continue reading our ‘Cobble Hill Insider’ section at the bottom just for paid subscribers who want to stay a step ahead - soft openings & exclusives!

Do you have a story we should be sharing? 🗞️ Submit your tip anonymously here, or email us

Our Top Picks

Events with an asterisk* tend to sell out- reserve tickets early!

Today, April 2:

First Thursday Gallery Walk @ Art in DUMBO (6:00pm): Enjoy this free evening of gallery openings, artist talks, and live performances along the waterfront. Wander between exhibitions and stop by Superfine for drink specials.

Friday, April 3

Mysha x Maman Mornings @ Maman Cobble Hill (9:30am-11:00am): This is a monthly gathering for moms to meet, chat, and recharge together. Held on the first Friday of each month, enjoy a welcoming space to connect with others in a similar season of life, with special discounts on coffee and breakfast for attendees. RSVP HERE.

Restorative Yoga Community Class @ Abhaya Yoga (6:15pm*): Unwind with a $10 Community Restorative class. This slow, prop-supported practice will focus on deep relaxation and gentle release, helping to calm the nervous system, reduce tension, and restore both body and mind.

Saturday, April 4

Get the Garden Spring Ready @ Wyckoff Bond Garden (10:00am-2:00pm): Lend a hand as the community comes together to get Wyckoff Bond Garden spring-ready. Stop by to help plant, prep, and bring new life to the space. Stay for an hour or the whole afternoon, all are welcome.

Midnight Swim @ Loafers Cocktail Bar (9:00pm-late): Enjoy a night with Midnight Swim, a weekly series by Hyōgo. Blending club sounds with immersive, body-forward rhythms, expect a laid-back yet energizing dance floor experience.

Sunday, April 5:

Nasha Table Pop Up @ Bolo Bolo (11:00am until sold out): Nasha Table is bringing their small, freshly baked menu featuring signature sourdough favorites and new creations at Bolo Bolo. Arrive early or preorder to secure your picks before they sell out!

Tuesday, April 7:

Emma Straub: American Fantasy w/ Lin-Manuel Miranda with Books Are Magic @ First Unitarian Church (7:00pm-8:00pm)*: Join Emma Straub in conversation with Lin-Manuel Miranda for a special event celebrating her new novel American Fantasy. Hosted by Books Are Magic, the evening will include a live discussion followed by a book signing. RSVP HERE.

Submit an event to be considered for this weekly events roundup!

Neighborhood Job Board

Each week we publish a new job board link featuring local openings from Cobble Hill and nearby businesses. Listing is free and takes under 2 minutes.

This week: Jobs at Darling, numerous roles at Brooklyn Bridge Park & Cobble Hill Association, Greenlight Bookstore (some application deadlines are today & this week!)

View Neighborhood Jobs

List a job for free | Subscribe for free to get the weekly job board in your inbox

✨ Cobble Hill Insider ✨

This week’s Insider section includes:

Buzzy pizza spot opens location on Smith Street this month • A new classic diner is headed to DUMBO • Two nearby developments in Boerum Hill and Brooklyn Heights could bring 670+ new apartments to Brooklyn

Read more

Spring is here - and Luke’s is celebrating with something fresh, bold, and seriously satisfying.

The Shrimp & Grains Protein Bowl pairs Fair Trade shrimp - free from chemicals, antibiotics, and hormones - with a hearty blend of ancient grains and crisp vegetables. The result is a balanced bowl that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing.

“At Luke’s, we believe high quality seafood and simple ingredients handled with care make the best meals. This bowl brings together responsibly sourced shrimp, whole grains, and fresh vegetables for something that feels both energizing and delicious.” - Luke Holden, CEO and founder of Luke’s Lobster

The Shrimp & Grains Protein Bowl starts with tender Fair Trade shrimp and a hearty base of ancient grains, a nourishing blend of organic brown rice, whole green lentils, pearl millet, quinoa, and flax seed.

From there, it’s layered with crisp cucumbers, shaved carrots, roasted red peppers, peppery arugula, and sweet mandarin segments, with edamame for an extra boost of plant-powered protein. A drizzle of savory Bachan’s sauce ties it all together, while toasted almonds and crunchy rice crisps add the perfect finishing bite.

The bowl is gluten-free, high in protein (31 grams), and high in fiber (11 grams) for the large/entree sized portion).

• Half Shrimp & Grains Protein Bowl: $10

• Full Shrimp & Grains Protein Bowl: $18

Available March 31st through May 31st at participating shacks while supplies last.

Visit Luke’s Lobster at Brooklyn Bridge Park, or find your closest location:

11 Water St., Brooklyn, NY 11201

917-882-7516

Thank you to Luke’s Lobster

Sponsored content like this allows Cobble Hill Collective to continue delivering top-quality local coverage to our community. Your support helps fund our dedicated writers. Interested in advertising with Cobble Hill Collective? Contact us to learn more about partnership opportunities.

✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨

• Pura Vida Miami Opens Today, March 26, in DUMBO! Check out their latest location at at 79 Front Street. Known for their for fresh bowls, salads, wraps, and all-day breakfast, the first 50 guests will score a complimentary cinnamon roll croissant with purchase.

• Maman has just shared they’ll be opening a 6,600 square-foot location on Water Street in DUMBO, which will be its 25th bakery in New York City.

• Celebrate International Women’s Month with the “Women Who Run It” giveaway, featuring prizes from woman-owned businesses along Smith Street. Enter for a chance to win gift cards, classes, brunch for two, and more, giveaway closes tomorrow, March 27!

• CardVault by Tom Brady has now officially opened its new shop at 80 Flatbush Avenue, offering sports cards, memorabilia, and collectibles. The store also hosts trading, selling, and grading services.

• A Boerum Hill brownstone owned by poet Robert Hershon served as a lively literary hub - housing his press, hosting writers, and reflecting decades of Brooklyn’s poetry scene. It’s on the market (around $2.5M, per Curbed) - agents: Jessica Quinn & James Fierro, Link to listing

  

• DAE has announced its final day of service will be April 26. A beloved neighborhood spot, it’s sure to be missed. Stop by to show some love and say goodbye before they close their doors.

✨ Continue reading our ‘Cobble Hill Insider’ section at the bottom just for paid subscribers who want to stay a step ahead - soft openings & exclusives!

Do you have a story we should be sharing? 🗞️ Submit your tip anonymously here, or email us

Business Buzz

Brooklyn Habit is evolving into an all-day neighborhood staple, now offering both morning coffee and an evening wine experience. Their new wine program features rotating pours by the glass and a Brooklyn Habit Flight (any three wines for $21), alongside a growing food menu with standouts like the Sweet Potato Bowl and Chicken Pesto Parm Bowl. The space also welcomes private events and casual neighborhood gatherings.

Our Top Picks

Events with an asterisk* tend to sell out- reserve tickets early!

Today, March 26:

Storytime @ Red Hook Houses Farm (11:00am): Join Brooklyn Book Bodega, Red Hook Initiative, NYCHA Healthy Families, and Brooklyn Public Library for a special Storytime. This family-friendly event focuses on early play, song, and literacy for children ages 0–5, with a free book giveaway for all ages. Details HERE.

Friday, March 27:

Social Co-Working Day @ Fabrik DUMBO (9:00am-5:00pm): Take a break from working solo at Anti-Lonely Co-Working Day at Fabrik Dumbo. Designed for remote workers, freelancers, and creatives, this social workday offers a relaxed space to get things done alongside others. Tickets include a discounted day pass for $9.99 HERE (typically $29).

Book Launch: The Art of Being a Stranger @ Powerhouse Arena (7:00pm-9:00pm): Join Karen Bermann for the launch of her new memoir, The Art of Being a Stranger. Blending prose, poetry, and artwork, the book explores family, identity, and inherited trauma through a deeply personal and darkly funny lens. Register HERE.

Saturday, March 28:

Baya Bash @ Baya Bar Carroll Gardens (All day): Enjoy special pricing to celebrate the start of warmer weather. Large bowls for $9 and smoothies, super smoothies, and protein shakes for $7 (limited to one item per customer and available for rewards members only).

“All the Restaurants” Pop-up @ Framebridge Cobble Hill (12:00pm-4:00pm): Meet local artist John Donohue, founder of All the Restaurants, at a special pop-up. Donohue will be selling and signing limited-edition prints of his iconic sketches featuring beloved Brooklyn spots like Lucali, Frankies Spuntino, and Clover Club, with custom framing available on-site.

Brooklyn Heights Association Egg Hunt and Bake Sale @ Henry Chapin and Pierrepont Playgrounds (10:30am): Enjoy the annual Brooklyn Heights Egg Hunt with a community bake sale to follow. Stop by for a morning of treats and neighborhood fun. If you’d like to volunteer or donate baked goods, get additional details and sign up here.

Sunday, March 29:

Sea & Soil Welcome Party @ Sea & Soil (12:00pm-3:00pm): Celebrate the arrival of Sea & Soil Coop at their Neighborhood Welcome Party. Stop by for donuts, sandwiches, and salads, and meet the team behind the brand-new spot as they officially welcome the community.

Tuesday, March 31:

Community Night @ Royal Palms Shuffleboard (7:30pm-9:00pm):* We’re bringing together the community from Cobble Hill Collective + Park Slope Pulse for a relaxed evening of shuffleboard, drinks, and meeting fellow neighbors in person. We’ve reserved lanes (yes, free games!) so you can hang out and play a few rounds with locals & our team! More details here.

Wednesday, April 1:

Block Printing Scarf Workshop @ Bolo Bolo (7:00pm-9:00pm)*: Get creative with a hands-on block printing workshop led by artists Milli Patel of Parampara and Sajnee Thakkar. This intimate evening invites guests to carve their own printing block and design a custom cotton scarf to take home, all while enjoying tea and cookies. Tickets ($65) HERE.

Aprés Fools with Brooklyn Heights Association @ Café Brume (6:30pm-8:00pm): Enjoy an Alpine-inspired evening at this special after-hours event. Expect high-elevation wines, seasonal bites, and cozy European charm (plus two drinks included with your ticket). Purchase your ticket ($30 for members, $40 for nonmembers) HERE.

Submit an event to be considered for this weekly events roundup!

Neighborhood Job Board

Each week we publish a new job board link featuring local openings from Cobble Hill and nearby businesses. Listing is free and takes under 2 minutes.

27 job openings across Cobble Hill and nearby neighborhoods

View Neighborhood Jobs

List a job for free | Subscribe for free to get the weekly job board in your inbox

✨ Cobble Hill Insider ✨

This week’s Insider section includes:

A buzzy, design-forward wellness concept is expanding into Boerum Hill - bringing pools, saunas, and a new kind of “third space” • New DUMBO Mexican restaurant in the works • Montague Open Streets updates for 2026

Read more

There’s a moment most of us hit during the week: working from home isn’t quite cutting it, your go-to café is too loud, and the idea of schlepping into Manhattan feels unnecessary.

That’s exactly where The Shop Brooklyn fits in.

Just a few minutes from Cobble Hill, this newly-opened workspace in Gowanus was designed to be a happy medium: not an office you’re locked into for years, but not a bandaid fix either. It’s a space you can visit for the day or turn into a second home.

Work here for a day

If you just need to get out of the house, take a call, or reset your routine, The Shop offers drop-in access, private day office rentals, and fully bookable conference rooms.

The Shop is the kind of space that actually supports how people work now. The space can be quiet when you need it, social when you want it, and was designed with a level of intention that will probably make you want to stay longer than you’d planned.

Right now, we’re offering 50% off your first booking, whether that’s a day pass or a meeting room with promo code COBBLEHILL.

Book Now

Or stay for a spell

For those ready for a more permanent setup, this is where things start to move.

There are just a handful of private offices and artist studios remaining, and the mix is intentionally limited, no massive inventory, no endless rows of identical units. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.

Don’t worry, we’ve got something for you though: any offices signed by March 31st come with an extra month free, layered on top of existing founding member incentives when you name drop Cobble Hill Collective.

See this as your sign to land somewhere early, before the space is no longer Brooklyn’s best-kept secret.

Book a Tour

Built for Brooklyn (and beyond)

Beyond being a great workspace, The Shop is a part of a broader shift happening in Gowanus.

More people are around during the day. More businesses are planting roots. And spaces like ours are becoming the connective tissue between them.

Know someone else that would benefit from space at The Shop? Learn more about our neighborhood referral program today.

Refer Now

Thank you to The Shop Workspace

Sponsored content like this allows Cobble Hill Collective to continue delivering top-quality local coverage to our community. Your support helps fund our dedicated writers. Interested in advertising with Cobble Hill Collective? Contact us to learn more about partnership opportunities.