How well do you know DUMBO, Brooklyn? Did you know that DUMBO stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass?

Today, the neighborhood still dons some of the most beautiful real estate in the 5 boroughs. With beautiful loft apartments, high ceiling, waterfront buildings, but at one time, not so long ago the neighborhood was in a decrepit state as if it were simply forgotten.

In the 1830’s, DUMBO was mostly commercial space thanks to it’s connectivity to the East River with factories and warehouses calling water street their home. Everything from Brillo Pads, Cardboard Boxes to the Domino Sugar Factory resided in DUMBO. Even the first grocery chain got it’s start in DUMBO, The Grand Union Company.

Due to the boom in manufacturing, The Jay Street Connecting Railroad ran through Dumbo’s waterfront from circa 1904–1906 through 1957. It ran from rail yards beneath the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges to buildings near the waterfront in Dumbo and Vinegar Hill. Although today the railroad tracks can still be seen running in the middle of the streets of DUMBO, they were fully abandoned in 1959. During the 1970, the abandonment of factories led to a flurry of artists and young adults scooping up inexpensive loft spaces (yes you read that right) and studios and really coining the acronym DUMBO.

Fast forward to today, those very factories and warehouses and once inexpensive housing have been re-vitalized after years of abandonment and deterioration. These space have been transformed into beautiful loft-like dream apartments with stellar views, retail stores and of course fantastic eatery options! Did I mention that the residents in the 1970’s pushed the acronym DUMBO hoping to deter developers from the area… man did that backfire. HA.

Enough talk, let’s take a look at some FOOD!

Cecconi’s – 55 Water Street

Whether you’re looking for a scenic relaxing place to grab a drink, or you’re ravenous looking for a good meal, Cecconi’s delivers all that and more! I’ve not only entertained clients at Cecconi’s, but also enjoyed great evenings out with friends and colleagues!

Gran Eléctrica – 1235 Prospect Avenue

The Gran Electrica patio will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a whimsical fairy tale! Mexican cuisine and stellar drinks makes this my go to… who doesn’t love tacos and tequila?! They even have a cute kids menu, so feel free to bring the little ones.

Where to Grab-n-Go. !

Time Out Market – 55 Water Street

Feeling like some pasta or how about some Japanese comfort food? Time Out Market has a wide array of vendors to which you can satisfy those pesky random cravings, from breads to ice cream they actually have something for everyone. Did I mention they have also have a bar?

One Girl Cookies – 33 Main Street

One Girl Cookies holds a special place in my heart. It was one of the locations I used for my engagement photos back in 2013. Their large windows overlooking the cobble stone streets and yummy treats made the perfect place to grab a coffee, cookie and let the photographer snap away!