My Perfect Winter Day
One of my fondest memories comes from a long, cold winter day many years ago. The day consisted of long walks through Downtown Brooklyn, sifting through holiday markets, and eating ramen. This is my perfect winter day, and I’m going to guide you through a similar day; a day that you will find just as nostalgic as I did.
It starts with a long walk through the crowded and lively streets of Downtown Brooklyn. I would take the train to the Jay Street Metrotech station and walk along Fulton Street, through the Fulton Mall, going in and out of stores, until you reach Dekalb Street. Here I would recommend visiting the bustling Dekalb Market Hall at City Point. City Point not only contains The Makers Show holiday market but also the Dekalb Market food court downstairs. This is the perfect place to buy unique gifts from small businesses and then enjoy a delicious lunch of over 35 different options from the food court. My personal favorite food stand in the hall is 100% Mr. Lin’s authentic Cantonese & Fujianese influenced Chinese food. Next, I would continue to walk along Dekalb Street, until you reach Fort Greene Park, an underrated yet beautiful park. If you’re lucky, there might even be snow!
After walking around Fort Greene Park, I would suggest walking to the Barclays Center on Atlantic Avenue, a busy hub for all Brooklynites. Going past the stadium and into the North Slope, walk along 5th avenue and venture into the few thrift stores in that area, including Beacon’s Closet and Slope Vintage. It will probably be time to eat again, and I can’t stress enough how good a hot bowl of ramen feels after a long day of walking in the winter breeze. My favorite ramen spots near 5th avenue would have to be KYURAMEN Ramen and Ramen DANBO, both relatively close in location. However, if you aren’t the ramen lover I am and are looking to spend a little more, Bricolage, a contemporary Vietnamese-French restaurant, and Convivium Osteria, a traditional Italian restaurant, are both excellent options near the vintage stores. After dinner and as you walk back to the subway, breathe in the crisp winter air and all that NYC has to offer.
I hope this guide helped you find unique small businesses, eat some delicious food, and create new memories.