Sponsored by The Co-Op School
From a Cobble Hill subscriber:
“I love the tone, briefness and how informative it is. Brava on the amazing work.” — Jennifer R.
Notes like these mean so much to our team! Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting our neighborhood coverage.
More Than a Meal: A First Look at Garnet, Opening Soon in Brooklyn Heights
Something special is taking shape at 20 Columbia Place in Brooklyn Heights, where Garnet, a new restaurant from Brooklyn-born chef Benjamin Laufer, is preparing to open November 18 in the former Clover Hill space.
We recently stopped by for a behind-the-scenes look and caught up with Benjamin about his vision: a relaxed, welcoming gathering place where neighbors can enjoy thoughtful, seasonal food and, hopefully, become regulars.
Nearly every detail of the space has a personal touch. Tables are being built in Ridgewood by a close friend and woodworker, chairs have been handmade by an artisan in Vermont, and neighbors have even helped weave them ahead of the opening. Ceramics from local artists round out a space that’s carefully crafted but designed to be used and enjoyed.
“Curated and crafted, but meant to be used and enjoyed.” — Benjamin Laufer, Founder of Garnet
The same philosophy carries into the menu. During the day, Garnet will offer a casual, canteen-style lunch with trays featuring a main dish, a few sides, and bread, alongside nourishing soups, stews, salads, and baked goods. A few early highlights include savory buns with cream and caramelized onions and a gluten-free buckwheat cake with pear, made using flour from Brooklyn Granary & Mill.
For dinner, Benjamin envisions a more communal experience, something closer to a dinner party than a formal tasting menu, where sharing a meal creates opportunities to connect.
Throughout the process, Benjamin has been listening to neighbors and finding ways to bring their needs together with his own vision. From handwritten updates in the restaurant’s windows to the locally made furnishings, Garnet is already finding ways to make the community part of its story.
More than anything, Benjamin hopes to create a place where people return again and again, turning familiar faces into friendships over good food.
Garnet officially opens November 18 at 20 Columbia Place in Brooklyn Heights. Follow @garnet.nyc for updates, and stay tuned for another look inside as the restaurant opens its doors.
Here’s what’s happening this week:
✨ Local Happenings and New Openings ✨
Calling Local Makers & Artists! Saturn Road is seeking vendors for its Weekend Holiday Market during the first three weekends of December! Set up shop outside the storefront and connect with holiday shoppers. Booths are $50 per day, with tables and chairs provided. Apply now and selected vendors will be notified by November 17!
Brooklyn author Sally Frances recently released Carroll Gardens Story, a Halloween-themed historical literary novel. After celebrating with neighborhood readings and signings in Red Hook, her book is now available online and locally at Brooklyn Farmacy.
Gap opened its new 7,885-square-foot outlet store at Atlantic Terminal (625 Atlantic Avenue). We got to stop by for a special preview and loved getting an early look at the space — plus, we’re always suckers for a new matchbox. All the festive pieces have us feeling ready for holiday shopping!
Madewell has officially opened its doors in Cobble Hill! Located at 51 Bergen Street, the popular shop brings its signature denim, everyday essentials, and accessories to the area.
Let Mister Cheeks handle the cooking this Thanksgiving! Whether you’re hosting a full feast or just need a few delicious sides, their Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving pre-orders are officially open. Order by November 21.
What a fun week in Brooklyn! I got to attend BAM’s Playback festival and hear Dr. Orna Guralnik and John Turturro discuss the film Divorce Italian Style during a post-screening talkback. Dr. Orna shared that her first reaction was wondering why John had chosen the movie, but she appreciated it even more on a second viewing! It was fascinating to hear them debate a relationship dynamic in the film and see how differently they interpreted it.
Looking ahead, I’m eyeing Girls’ Night Out at Dear Dreamer. Shopping, drinks, a DJ, and 15% off? Perfect Thursday evening! And after getting a sneak peek inside Garnet, I can’t wait to try those savory buns with caramelized onions!
See you around the neighborhood!
Shannon
Sponsored by The Co-Op School
Step Inside The Co-op School! Join Their Open House This Saturday, November 14
Founded by parents in 2003, The Co-op School is a cooperative nonprofit school in Bed-Stuy serving Preschool (2s) through 8th grade. Families, educators, and students work together to build a joyful community where every child feels safe, seen, and valued. Inspired by Reggio Emilia, classes dig into big questions across reading, math, science, and art. 98% of their graduates are accepted to their first-choice high school. Their new Equitable Tuition model sets contributions between 17% and 100% of full tuition.
Come see it for yourself at their Open House on Saturday, November 14, 9:30–11:30am!
Neighborhood Job Board 📌
This week’s featured openings include a Marketing & Content Manager at Brooklyn Arts Council in Downtown Brooklyn, an Area Sales Representative at Threes Brewing, and a Barista at Kijitora Brooklyn, plus dozens of other opportunities across Brooklyn and beyond.
Browse this week’s Neighborhood Jobs
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, November 12:
Girls’ Night Out @ Dear Dreamer (6:00pm-9:00pm): Enjoy an after-hours shopping party! You’ll get 15% off fall favorites, drinks, and music from an in-house DJ while browsing the boutique’s latest finds. A perfect excuse for a little shopping and a fun night out with friends!
Sole Mate to Sole Mate @ Ruhani Café (5:30pm): Looking to meet new people and unwind after work? Communal Sole Club is bringing neighbors together for a casual evening of coffee, conversation, and connection in Ruhani Café’s backyard. Come solo or bring a friend. RSVP required.
Below the paywall - for paid subscribers only
A New Restaurant Coming to DUMBO: A familiar NYC food concept known for its pasta dishes under $12 is coming to Old Fulton Street. Here's what we know so far!
A $202 Million Brooklyn Waterfront Deal: One of Brooklyn’s most recognizable hotels has changed hands in a major real estate transaction.
More Neighborhood Events: From a cozy story time to Sicilian-inspired lunches and a Thanksgiving pie-making class, we’ve rounded up more ways to enjoy the week ahead!
