Full of new construction, wall art, and men sleeping in their cars, Greenpoint may seem like a post-industrial neighborhood, but what it lacks in initial appearances, it makes up for in a thriving community with ideal riverside views.
Bordered north to south with Paidge Avenue to Nassau Avenue and east to west from Meeker Avenue to the East River, Greenpoint is the northernmost point in Brooklyn, and it is, therefore, almost completely surrounded by water.
Accessibility
While Greenpoint borders Williamsburg, it does not share Williamsburg’s subway lines. As it stands, the only way to get to and from Greenpoint is the (G) train, which goes diagonally through the neighborhood. Traveling within Greenpoint will involve the use of the bus. The (B24 & B48) buses grant horizontal travel through Greenpoint while (B43 & B62) buses provide vertical travel within the neighborhood.
While public transportation may be difficult, Greenpoint is a beautiful neighborhood to walk around in. Taking a stroll through one of the tree-lined streets can get you around the neighborhood within 15-30 minutes.
Lifestyle
While Greenpoint had its industrial past, a modern wave has revitalized the neighborhood. With a pleasant mixture of mom and pop shops to unique eateries, old and young residents are welcomed to stay. Residents are spotted lounging in one of the many secret spots to view the riverside as they cuddle with their huskies. However, you’ll also find grandparents enjoying some pierogis at their favorite restaurant as a fashionable teenager parks his bright red bicycle on the nearby street light. Expect quiet atmospheres with independent bookstores lining the streets when coming into Greenpoint; don’t expect a partier’s delight or a business hub.
Restaurant & Bars
Full of old, Brooklyn loved eateries and some of the best Polish dishes, Greenpoint may be difficult to arrive in, but once here, there are food options galore. My personal favorite is Greenpoint Fish & Lobster; featuring some of the freshest fish in all of NYC, seafood lovers can shout for joy (while non-seafood lobster can enjoy the biscuits and water). For more Chinese cuisine, Xi’an Famous Foods can please the palates of anyone in the mood for some dumplings and fried rice. However, for filling food while not spending a fortune, Karczma offers authentic Polish food for anybody with an empty stomach and a love for sauerkraut.
Not in the mood for food? How about some places to drink adult apple juice? My personal recommendation is The Black Rabbit. An ideal spot for dating, happy hours, and Polish burgers, this bar has it all. Enjoy the atmosphere and the drinks in this all-in-one bar. Not at all cheap but definitely worth the extra buck (or 50), Alameda may loosen your wallet, but it is the perfect place to show off to friends (or your parents) that you’re a successful individual!
Cost
Definitely cheaper than Manhattan (by about $2,000 per month), the median rental cost to live in Greenpoint is $3,000. However, market trends indicate a bump in the sales and rental prices in the coming years. As new developments keep appearing and the neighborhood’s popularity begins to rise, there’s a high possibility that Greenpoint may rival neighborhoods such as Williamsburg in terms of cost in the near future.
Final Verdict
Greenpoint is a secret haven tucked away from Manhattan. With hidden gems around every corner, every resident has their favorite secret within this neighborhood. It’s quiet, peaceful, yet extremely Brooklyn. While it may be difficult to commute to, come to Greenpoint for amazing cuisines and stay a while (or forever) to discover your own hidden gem.
