Unlock Willowbrook's Hidden Local Community Secrets
Rebecca | NYC
I've been hearing and seeing Chicha San Chen everywhere and wanted to try it today! It's definitely more expensive than most boba, but the drink was so refreshing. I've never had osmanthus oolong tea before and I love it. After eating so many oily foods in other stores, it was great to cleanse my palette! The tapioca was also very chewy and awesome. What we ordered: 🧋honey osmanthus oolong tea with tapioca pearls
Eater
Desi Stop It can be extraordinarily hard to find options for late-night drunchies that are vegan or vegetarian. Behold Desi Stop: At this 24-hour deli, the samosa burger will only run you $5 and it’s made with actual vegetables: quinoa, chickpeas, and walnuts. It’s a worthy on-the-go snack no matter the time of day.
Eater
Sunday C&C is located in the Bowery Market, a permanent home for this concept first launched at Smorgasburg. Owner Christian Torres is a one-man operation serving up Latin American vegan food with a rotating menu. When it opened it featured Venezuelan-style arepa that’s made with sweet corn, housemade cashew “mozzarella” with ssamjang, and vegan honey, but the menu regularly changes. The market is technically open-air, but covered and shaded for weather, and there are several tables for dine-in.
Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Foxface Natural 🦊 Foxface Natural is a continuation of NYC’s famous Foxface sandwich shop which served unconventional meats - camel, elk, hare and more. They change their menu every few days to weeks, but there are several that stay on longer, like the kangaroo tartare which I came to Foxface just to try! Must tries are definitely any dishes that has their super popular fluke (melts in your mouth!) as well. Also, all meats are sustainably sourced and from non-endangered species! This was the epitome of casual fine dining - absolutely amazing and I’d love to go back again! If these items are ever on the menu again, find my must-tries below. Pro tip - make a reservation! What I ordered: - Point Judith Squid - black aguachile, fermented tomatillo, crispy berkshire pork ear, pickled ramp - Tajarin Pasta - our sake cured mullet roe (karasumi) - [must-try] Kangaroo Tartare - warm spices, charred eggplant, sardinian flatbread - [must-try] Maine Uni - wood oven roasted seafood quenelles, nantua sauce (seafood) - Sweetbreads Schnitzel - melted leek, chestnut purée, fermented sourdough mustard
jerica
Such a relaxing and zen space 💫 The space, the natural lighting, decorations and food all came together here and we had an amazing experience. ippudo V specializes traditional japanese techniques combined with contemporary plant-based cuisine at this new Brooklyn location. They definitely curate a more elevated zen experience. I was so amazed that so much of their menu is plant based.🌱🍜 you can taste how each ingredient is made with so much care. My personal favorites were the crispy corn and the super mario bros sushi. 🍣 Also really appreciated the variety of items on the menu, from Acai bowls to, hojicha lattes, to upscale ramen and sushi rolls you☕️ What we ordered: - crispy corn - $12 - goma q - $8 - Super Mario Bros sushi roll - $22 - pla-ton | tonkotsu ramen $35 - daichi no miso ramen - $35 - acai bowl with almond butter - $14
Time Out New York
Cadence, East Village What is it? A vegan soul food restaurant led by executive chef Shenarri Freeman. Cadence is part of Overthrow Hospitality’s group of NYC plant-based restaurants. Why we love it? Freeman’s menu is a list of hits like the rich, expertly-textured grits and excellent hearts of palm cakes. The southern-fried lasagna with pine nut ricotta, spinach and a red wine Beyond Meat bolognese is a can't-miss dish.
Eater
Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, it’s much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter that’s already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New York’s burrito scene, thanks in part to its homemade Sonora-style flour tortillas. The kitchen is under the direction of Annisha Garcia, from Tijuana, Mexico, who was the 2021 Chopped Grand Champion.
See also
Dining in Willowbrook: Explore Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near NYC
Time Out New York
Ugly Baby What is it? Booming on Smith Street in Carroll Gardens since 2017, Ugly Baby is a Thai restaurant that will test the limits of your heat tolerance. Fiery flavors abound in the “stay-away spicy Udon Thani’s duck salad," and orders of soothing tue ka ko will slake any palate flames. Why we love it? Ugly Baby’s use of spice is a master class in heat notable to aficionados and novices alike. Like a lot of the city's best no-reservations restaurants, the wait for tables can be long, and if you don't nab a spot close to 5pm, expect to linger for a while.
Natasha Surti
Restaurant Week Recap🍴 🍽Where I went: Pig & Khao ✔️What I got: Pork Belly Adobo, Khao Soi, Jasmine Rice, Ricotta Donuts 💰What I paid: ~$45 ⠀ 🤔What I think: For restaurant week this summer I went to Pig & Khao! They were offering dinner for $45 with 3 courses + Rice! The portion sizes were HUGE! In fact I had leftovers for 2 meals.. they also offered a cocktail tasting ($30) where you get a different cocktail for each course.. the cocktails were very unique, would recommend checking them out! Undoubtedly the best thing I ate from here was the Ricotta Donuts 🥰🤩 if you go here, that is a must try for sure!
Eater
Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, it’s much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter that’s already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New York’s burrito scene, thanks in part to its homemade Sonora-style flour tortillas. The kitchen is under the direction of Annisha Garcia, from Tijuana, Mexico, who was the 2021 Chopped Grand Champion.
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Twenty Three Years 💙 Tribute in Light is a commemorative public art installation presented every year from dusk to dawn, on the night of September 11th. It has become an iconic symbol that both honors those lost and celebrates the unbreakable spirit of New York. The installation consists of twin beams that reach four miles into the sky, and are comprised of 88 7,000-watt xenon light bulbs positioned into two 48-foot squares; echoing the shape and orientation of the Twin Towers. WHERE: 📍The lights are assembled on the roof of the Battery Parking Garage south of the 9/11 Memorial. The installation can be viewed from a 60-mile radius around lower Manhattan. WHEN: ⏰ The display will be illuminated from dusk until dawn on the night of September 11. Organizers have been testing the lights this week - they have been on for short time periods several evenings, ahead of the event. GOOD TO KNOW: 📕The tribute is also extended across the city with over 30 landmarks also lighting up in blue. Participating buildings include the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, the Helmsley Building, the Bank of America Tower, Barclays Bank US Headquarters, One Vanderbilt, and many more.
Eater
Kisa, short for kisa sikdang (also spelled gisa sikdang), or “driver’s restaurant,” is an homage to Korean diners that emerged in the ’80s catering to taxi drivers. The spot echoes kisas in Korea, with vintage TVs, wall-mounted fans, Korean calendars, and a coin-slot coffee machine. There’s only one dish on the menu — it comes on a tray with seasonally-changing banchan. All there is to do is pick a main: There’s jeyuk (spicy pork); bulgogi; and jingeo bokkeum (spicy squid). The team recently added lunch and reservations.
Natasha Surti
You’re the only BUN for me 🫶🏻 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 🍽Where I went: Mei Lai Wah ✔️What I got: Roasted Pork Bun 💰What I paid: $1.50 ⠀ 🤔What I think: This is my absolute favorite thing to get in Chinatown. There is always a line outside this place but it moves pretty quick and frankly it’s worth the wait! I haven’t had a better pork bun than this one. The bread itself is so fresh that you can eat it on its own. The pork on the inside has just the right amount of sweetness! I’ve dragged all my friends to this place as well and they all love it as much as I do! I cannot wait to get this again the next time I’m in Chinatown, it’s been way too long since I’ve had one.
jerica
In love with this place <3 Duo Cafe is a newly opened tea house serving up traditional chinese tea sets along with cakes and deserts. it has a very minimalist yet cozy vibe to it. the menus are handwritten and the decor inside is simple. the music is also very relaxing- it is a very calming space to be in 🍵 we got the tea set with a basque burnt cheese cake and sweet potato set. I’ve always been a tea drinker- I got their white tea and it was amazing. we refilled it multiple times. 🍠 this spot is a little pricey but I felt like the quality of the experience was so great, and my friend and I were able to have a really great time there sipping tea, catching up, and writing down goals for 2024. recommend checking this spot out!
See alsoLocal Networking Events & Trending Gatherings in Willowbrook Near NYC
Secret NYC
Open House New York Experience the unique opportunity to explore over 200 of New York City’s iconic buildings and landmarks during the Open House New York (OHNY) weekend from October 18th to 2oth. This event, celebrating its 22nd year, offers a mix of in-person tours, self-guided explorations, and digital content of skyscrapers, power plants, artist studios, and everything in between. The festival is 100% free to the public, making it accessible for everyone. Discover more about the event and plan your visit on the Open House New York website.
Eater
Il Totano The first Top Chef winner, Harold Dieterle, of the late Perilla and Kin Shop, teamed up with Alexandra Shapiro, of Flex Mussels and Hoexters, to open Il Totano, an 80-seat restaurant, hoping to capture the spirit of a 1970 Italian holiday vacation. Aged fish inspires the centerpiece of the menu and the space, which includes a dry-aging fridge in the dining room. In addition to crudo, the menu revives Perilla’s spicy duck meatballs. Don’t miss the pork cotolette, pounded thin and lightly fried, topped with bitter greens and whole anchovies.
Secret NYC
Pier 40 at Hudson River Park: A Multihued Maritime Destination Walk, learn, play, row, explore, and soak in many memorable experiences at Pier 40 at Hudson River Park, a vibrant and historical community space. Expect a diverse blend of recreational experiences. The lush greenery and gorgeous waterfront views make Pier 40 at Hudson River Park an excellent spot for leisure and outdoor activities. However, it can be windy in the spring and fall, so check weather updates before visiting. If you are a sports fan, visit the athletic complex! It is the base for US Rugby League team New York Knights. Apart from the courtyard ballfields, check out the rooftop and indoor artificial turf fields. Science enthusiasts should head to the River Project Wetlab, a fascinating hub of marine biology. Its 3500-gallon circulating aquarium with multiple tanks showcases vivid biodiversity from the Hudson River. From Wetlab trivia nights to ‘Ask the Scientist’ events, you can make fascinating discoveries here. You could also participate in free public rowing sessions at the Village Community Boathouse on the pier. Only hand-built traditional rowboats called Whitehall gigs are used to promote environmental awareness.
Infatuation
Bubby's Starting with the food, it’s my favorite brunch spot in the city. Whenever I have people visiting I always take them there. They have the best gluten-free pancakes in the world—my friends always say they’re just as good as the regular ones, they’re so sweet and fluffy and yummy. But I really like that their bathroom is gender neutral with floor to ceiling doors, and they also have a photo booth. It’s so fun when you’re out with friends and you want to take photos.
Time Out New York
Gage & Tollner At once an emblem of Old New York and a relative newcomer, Gage & Tollner was revived well over a century after first opening at this location in 1892. A trio of Brooklyn hospitality pros, including chef Sohui Kim, reopened the august institution to quick acclaim in 2021. Why we love it? G&T’s landmarked interior, which hosted several unrelated businesses before its latest unveiling, is beautiful: enveloped in crimson velvet, gilded and appointed with towering mirrors to reflect all its splendor. The menus are terrific, too, abundant with steaks, chops, seafood towers, sensational fried chicken and best-in-class desserts. The recent addition of weekend lunch service makes the tough-to-book Brooklyn jewel a little bit easier to get into, and G&T recently started making its sensational pastries available for pre-order. Check out Sunken Harbor Club upstairs, too, if you get the chance.
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Feast of Fun 🇮🇹 The feast is back! The San Gennaro festival returns again on the 12th of September to the streets of Little Italy. This marks its 98th year. Come hungry! This 10-day celebration is NYC’s most popular and longest running street fairs, and is well known for its delicious food and party atmosphere. The celebration includes parades and processions, live musical entertainment, carnival games, rides, and amusements, food delicacies, and most importantly, dining at Little Italy’s famous restaurants and cafes. WHEN: ⏰Thursday September 12 through Sunday September 22. FREE to walk the festival. Food and carnival rides have a fee. (Bring cash!) DONT MISS: 📕The Grand Procession parade featuring marching bands, floats, revelers and the statue of San Gennaro. The parade happens on Sept 14th at 2pm. FOR KIDS: 🎈After you fill those bellies, head over to the carnival rides and games that are set up specifically for the event. There are typically 4-5 rides offered. Rides change slightly each year, but there is always a Ferris wheel! Visit at night to see the Ferris wheel glow in rainbow hues.
Secret NYC
Staten Island Raceway For something a little closer to home, rip around the Staten Island Raceway at the Staten Island FunPark. Their 800-foot track features many twists and turns under the supervision of the Pit Crews who ensure safe driving. Kids and adults alike can speed their way through the turns on this beautiful track, all while having a laugh along the way. The FunPark also features mini golf, batting cages, and the famous Water Blast, so there’s something for everyone if you visit!
See alsoDiscover the Best Cocktails in Willowbrook: Local Bars & Rooftop Nightlife Near NYC
Time Out New York
Richmond County Fair Grab the fam and head to Historic Richmond Town, a preserved museum village dating from the late 17th century, for its annual county fair. The Richmond County Fair, running from August 31-September 2, combines classic fairground festivities with a unique touch of Staten Island history, including signature demonstrations of historical trades by costumed interpreters. Play bingo, try a three-legged race, see aerial shows, be awed by stilt walkers, shop for local crafts, hear from storytellers and lots more. Plus, come hungry for fair fare like empanadas, lobster rolls, rice balls, funnel cakes and zeppoles. All the fun's for a good cause, as proceeds support Historic Richmond Town in its mission to preserve and share local history.
Infatuation
Hometown Bar-B-Que You’re probably going to have to wait an hour in line to get this (mostly) Texas-style barbecue. Once you make it to the counter of this Red Hook institution, though, the brisket, giant beef rib, and the lamb belly bánh mi will all be incredible. If you’re with a group, add some brisket tacos and Jamaican jerk baby back ribs, neither of which are essential but are still pretty great. Plan to visit on a weekend and make a day out of it.
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Hidden Gem in NYC - Chinese Scholar’s Garden 🌳 Summer is the perfect time to explore some of the city’s fabulous gardens. One of New York City’s greatest hidden gems is the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, located at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden in Staten Island. The design is based on gardens from the Ming Dynasty in China, and one of the few authentic gardens that were built in America. All the materials you see here (including the rocks and the tiles on the floor!) were made or sourced in China. The Chinese Scholar Garden has much to explore! There are eight pavilions, three ponds with koi fish, a waterfall, and many picturesque areas, including the unique shaped doorways seen on this clip. It’s a treasure. Why a hidden gem? Because It’s hard to find it! The NYCSG is behind a stone wall and not visible from the road. To get to the entrance you must walk through a cottage. The sign marking this is small and easy to miss. It truly is hidden!
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Hidden Waterfall in NYC 💦 Looking for a shady and cool place to relax in this heat? Head to this secret waterfall retreat. Greenacre Park is a hidden gem located in Midtown Manhattan. The privately owned/open to the public park has a 25-foot waterfall, ample multi-level seating, and thanks to trees and the neighboring buildings - its almost always shady (and cool!). With a cafe onsite, its the perfect place to grab a bite. As the waterfall is tucked away and not easily visible from the street, its a fun surprise for little ones to learn of this “secret” waterfall in the city. WHEN: ⏰Open daily 8am - 8pm
Secret NYC
This Victorian Trolley Takes You On A Haunted Tour Of Brooklyn’s Dark Past New York City has its fair share of haunted places to get yourself into the spooktacular spirit…but we’ll admit we aren’t brave enough to explore those places on our own. Now a trolley tour on the other hand (a trolley packed with 21 other people, at that) we can get down with. There is safety in numbers, after all. And the city has just that–Madame Morbid’s Trolley Tours are NYC’s #1 ghost tour, taking thrill seekers on a journey through the dark shadows of Brooklyn. Even the biggest of supernatural skeptics will be spooked, but if not you can still look forward to the chance to win prizes with spooky trivia!
Crown | NYC
Have you gone for the kiss on a NYC Ferry ride?
Davina⚡️NYC
Had an amazing brunch recently at Jazba NYC. We’re no expert on Indian food, but we honestly loved everything we had there. We grew up eating Indian food in Malaysia, and lived in New Delhi for a bit before our move to NYC and this meal took us right back to India. A vibrant new restaurant from the team behind Junoon, Jazba is bringing India’s colorful hawker food and culture to NYC! (Looking forward to trying their dinner menu soon) Tip: definitely get the Basket Chaat!
See alsoDiscover the Best Brunch in Willowbrook Near NYC: Local Brunch Spots & Foodie Favorites
Secret NYC
The Big Button Playfully representing the theme of the neighborhood it sits in, The Garment District, the newly unveiled “The Big Button” sculpture aims to tell the tale of this historic area. This piece of art was a staple in Midtown for over 30 years before eventually receiving a recent facelift. It stands at 28 feet tall with a 15-foot diameter aluminum button and 32-foot brushed stainless-steel needle. The pop art “represents NYC’s prominent fashion industry and serving as a beloved symbol of our neighborhood and its rich history,” according to Barbara A. Blair, president of the Garment District Alliance.
Secret NYC
100 Larger Than Life Indian Elephants Are Migrating Across The U.S. To NYC! The elephants aren’t real, of course. Rather it’s a herd of 100 life-size elephant statues. Dubbed The Great Elephant Migration, the installation is “a global fundraising adventure to amplify indigenous knowledge and inspire the human race, to share space”. The Great Elephant Migration is a collaboration between indigenous artisans, contemporary artists, and cultural institutions, that’s set to raise millions of dollars to power human-wildlife coexistence projects and protect migratory animals. And, just like migratory elephants in real life, the heard of elephant statues are migrating their way across the U.S.–they’re currently taking up residence in Newport, Rhode Island, and will migrate their way to NYC on Friday, September 6th where they’ll reside until October.
Discovering the Heart of Willowbrook's Local Community
Willowbrook, located just a stone's throw away from the bustling metropolis of NYC, is a hidden gem rich with vibrant local culture. In this neighborhood, the sense of community plays a pivotal role, bringing residents together through thrumming activities and shared values. A significant aspect of this close-knit environment is the ability to engage in trending discussions and anonymous posts through local platforms like Kikihub, which offer deep insights into the area's hidden treasures and grassroots events.
Exploring Trending Discussions
One of the primary ways Willowbrook residents connect with each other is through the town's thriving discussion threads. Amidst the tree-lined streets and cozy cafes, a pulsating heartbeat of conversation can be heard, resonating through digital forums frequented by locals. Through Kikihub, individuals can partake in trending discussions that span a wide range of topics, from the latest socializing opportunities slated for the weekend, to updates on upcoming community celebrations. Willowbrook dwellers often share their thoughts anonymously, creating a candid atmosphere where real opinions and local secrets are unveiled without fear or reservation.
Anonymous Interaction: Freedom to Share Authenticity
What sets Willowbrook's local community apart is the freedom to share genuine experiences anonymously. On Kikihub, derived insights and encounters unfold naturally, as residents are given the opportunity to anonymously post about undiscovered scenic spots, lesser-known dining havens, and untapped networking events right in their backyard. The anonymous posting culture empowers community members to divulge their honest opinions and recommendations, fostering authentic dialogue and connection. This anonymity serves as a catalyst for open conversations, helping individuals to voice their thoughts without repercussion, ultimately enriching the social fabric of Willowbrook.
A Peek into Willowbrook's Local Events
The sense of community in Willowbrook is strongly reinforced through local events that encourage socializing and networking among its inhabitants. These events not only provide neighbors the chance to meet face-to-face but also serve as a celebration of Willowbrook's rich diversity and heritage. From artistic festivals in the park to charity fundraisers held at the local community center, every occasion is an invitation to engage with the unique blend of individuals who call Willowbrook home. Anonymous posts often enlighten the community on these events, previewing what to expect and discussing potential impacts on the local area.
Networking Opportunities Abound
Willowbrook offers a plethora of networking opportunities that cater to different interests and professions. Whether you are looking to connect with fellow entrepreneurs at a business mixer or find a literary circle to join, Kikihub frequently highlights these events through timely posts. The buzzing discussions also extend beyond professional networking; personal connections are fostered, proving that community is the backbone of Willowbrook. Anonymous stories and tips shared on platforms like Kikihub provide useful insights into maximizing these networking opportunities, while also encouraging residents to explore new connections beyond their immediate circles.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
Willowbrook’s local secrets often include its incredible diversity and deep-rooted cultural heritage. Community parades and local festivals celebrate the melting pot of cultures, with participation encouraged from everyone in the neighborhood. These festivities offer a rainbow of culinary delights, crafts, and musical performances that bind the community closer together under the shared goal of embracing different heritages. The culmination of such events is frequently documented in anonymous posts on Kikihub, serving as both a chronicle of communal achievements and a forecast of the future camaraderie within Willowbrook.
In conclusion, Willowbrook exemplifies a community thriving on rich dialogue, shared experiences, and anonymous engagement. As residents continue to utilize platforms like Kikihub for exchanging local secrets and insights, the community bonds grow stronger, making Willowbrook an intriguing place where people are always eager to connect, learn, and celebrate the local essence.
