Bedford Stuyvesant

The most interesting people in the world are multi-faceted, the most compelling stories contain a surprise or two, and the most endearing neighborhoods are multi-layered. Bedford-Stuyvesant -- more commonly referred to as Bed-Stuy -- is one of those multi-layered neighborhoods where there is always something new to see and discover.

Bed-Stuy is famous for its impressive brownstones, built for well-to-do Brooklynites in the late 19th century. When African American families moved into those brownstones in the 1920s and 30s in order to get out of overcrowded Harlem, they brought with them a new layer of experience, a new story to tell. Today, these pieces of architectural history are among the most sought-after properties in Brooklyn. 

Bed-Stuy's tree-lined streets are home to a colorful variety of shops and restaurants, each allowing another peak into the makeup of the neighborhood. Stroll down Jefferson Avenue, east to Malcolm X Boulevard, and west to Tompkins Avenue to see those stunning brownstones, many of which still contain the classical architectural elements and ornamental details with which they were designed. Stop in at Dough's on Lafayette Avenue for an out-of-this-world donut experience (how about hibiscus, blood orange, or dulce de leche with almonds?). Go antique furniture shopping at Bedford Galleries, The Lions Den, or I Like Mikes Mid-Century Modern. While shopping for the classics, check out vintage clothing at Installation Brooklyn, Jordan Heads Brooklyn, Miss Master's Closet, or the ever-charming Harold and Maude Vintage. A fabulous dinner is easy when the layers of a neighborhood consist of diverse cultures. Visit Joloff Restaurant for West African cuisine, L'Antagoniste for French, Tepache for Mexican, or Saraghina for Italian.

There is no arguing the fact that Bed-Stuy is in the midst of adding a new layer to its already impressive history, but that's what a living, breathing neighborhoods does. Everyone who has passed through Bed-Stuy has left a bit of their character here. From Lena Horne to Norah Jones and Chris Rock, each soul has left their mark. It is, perhaps, no wonder that so many people wish they could call Bed-Stuy home.