Welcome to Bedford Stuyvesant
Excellent food and gorgeous architecture abound in this cool, cultural neighborhood.
Get ready to meet your neighbors! Bedford Stuyvesant, known affectionately as Bed-Stuy, is the kind of place where residents chat from across brownstone stoops and wave good morning to friends and strangers alike. With its mix of urban sophistication, small-town feel, and cultural heartbeat, Bed-Stuy really does have it all.
The area’s rich artistic culture can be seen in the work of its famous artists and performers, like Duke Ellington and Jay-Z, while the historic district boasts incredible building styles and ornate detail work, including turrets and Queen Anne flamboyance. Famed architect Montrose Morris lived and designed here, and some of his best creations can still be found on Hancock Street.
From stunning Victorian row houses to modern condo buildings equipped with every convenience, Bed-Stuy offers a wide variety of beautiful homes for every taste. The friendly approachability of this tight-knit community, along with its impressive creative energy and architectural beauty, make Bed-Stuy one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Brooklyn.
What to Love
- Incredible food scene
- Gorgeous architecture
- Charming streets and walkability
- Cultural and artistic influences
- The friendly, tight-knit community
People and Lifestyle
Bed-Stuy has long been home to artists, musicians, and actors, and many of its residents work in the arts. This creative influence can be seen in the top-rated restaurants and stunning architecture. The blend of artistry and laid-back vibes make this the perfect spot for creative entrepreneurs, young professionals, and families looking for both a hip, urban setting, and a warm, friendly community.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Bed-Stuy is absolute heaven for foodies! The restaurants here are infused with the neighborhood’s creative energy, making every dining experience fun, friendly and inspired. Locals love to hit up
Saraghina for its extensive wine selection, specialty pizza, and antipasti. They also offer an Italian-style brunch menu and gluten-free, vegan options.
Fans of Southern cuisine will want to visit
Peaches HotHouse for crispy grits, fried green tomatoes, and the best fried chicken in Brooklyn! This casual eatery is one of Bed-Stuy’s culinary favorites. French Bistro
Chez Oskar offers brunch, happy hour, and dinner as well as occasional live music. Its friendly, casual vibe makes it a perfect option for everything from date night to a weekday dinner with the kids.
Taco joint
Warude is the talk of the town with its innovative menu, world-fusion foods, and seasonal, local, organic ingredients. An impressive drink menu plus vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free options make this low-key, high-quality spot an easy choice for foodies of all palates.
Things to Do
Influenced by its rich cultural history, Bed-Stuy keeps its residents busy! One of the first parks in Brooklyn,
Herbert Von King Park has a vibrant town-square feel. Catch a free concert at the amphitheater or show off your moves in the indoor dance studio. There are playgrounds, baseball fields, and fitness equipment as well as dog-friendly areas for your best puppy pals! The park even supplies Wi-Fi hotspots for those looking for office space among the trees.
The artist-owned
LunÀtico exemplifies the cultural influence of Bed-Stuy. With its eclectic vibe and world-class musicians, this intimate lounge may be the coolest spot in Brooklyn.
Film buffs will love the well-regarded
Bedstuy Film Festival. Held every October, the festival spotlights short and foreign films, as well as documentaries, from new and diverse voices. Budding filmmakers, this is your chance! The organization also accepts film submissions.
Considering Bed-Stuy’s close-knit vibes, it’s no surprise that the
Tompkins Avenue Merchant Association is such a hit. This community-driven open street market is the place to shop, eat and play on Sundays. You’ll find everything you could possibly ask for in terms of diverse food, organic groceries, gourmet coffee, rare and vintage finds, and even outdoor yoga.
Schools
Bedford Stuyvesant is home to excellent schools. Top choices include: