Restaurants Near Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) is one of New York City’s most beautiful and peaceful destinations. Each year, thousands of locals and travelers come here to enjoy the cherry blossoms, the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, and the lush greenery that makes this 52-acre oasis feel like another world.
But after a long stroll among magnolias and bonsai trees, one question inevitably arises — where should you eat nearby? Whether you’re craving sushi, brunch, coffee, or fine dining, the area surrounding the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is full of amazing culinary spots.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best restaurants near Brooklyn Botanic Garden, ranging from cozy cafés to international favorites. You’ll find local gems, quick bites, and sit-down restaurants perfect for relaxing after your garden visit.
1. Sake Sushi — A Taste of Japan in Brooklyn
Address: 328 Church Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11218
Distance from BBG: ~2.3 miles (10–12 minutes by car)
When it comes to sushi near the Botanic Garden, Sake Sushi stands out as a reliable, affordable, and authentic Japanese restaurant. It’s a favorite among locals for its fresh rolls, bento boxes, and friendly service.
Their special rolls, like the Dragon Roll and Rainbow Roll, are crowd-pleasers — colorful, balanced, and beautifully presented. If you’re not into raw fish, you can enjoy cooked dishes like teriyaki chicken, tempura, or udon noodles.
Though it’s not directly next to the garden, it’s worth the short ride. The quiet, relaxed setting makes it ideal after a morning walk in the BBG.
2. The Finch — Fine Dining Meets Neighborhood Charm
Address: 212 Greene Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Distance: ~15 minutes walk from BBG
For those seeking something more upscale, The Finch offers a Michelin-star dining experience in a warm, rustic setting. Chef Gabe McMackin’s approach focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a creative mix of textures and flavors.
Try the roasted chicken with heirloom carrots or crisp-skinned duck breast — dishes that blend comfort with elegance. Their wine list is thoughtfully curated to complement every meal.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
3. Barboncino Pizza — Neapolitan Vibes in Crown Heights
Address: 781 Franklin Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Distance: ~10 minutes walk from the Garden
If pizza is your post-garden craving, Barboncino delivers classic Neapolitan-style pizza baked in a wood-fired oven. The restaurant buzzes with life — hip but welcoming — and it’s a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Try the Margherita, Salsiccia, or White Pizza with ricotta and garlic. Pair it with an Aperol spritz or a Brooklyn-brewed beer, and you’ve got the perfect combination of comfort and style.
Barboncino’s name means “little poodle” in Italian — a quirky touch that fits its laid-back Brooklyn personality.
4. Café Regular du Nord — A French Corner Café
Address: 158 Berkeley Place, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Distance: ~8 minutes from BBG
Hidden just a few blocks from the Garden, this cozy café feels like stepping into Paris. With its vintage decor, tiled floors, and espresso aroma, Café Regular du Nord is a local treasure.
Order a croissant with espresso or French toast with fruit compote if you’re there for brunch. The atmosphere is quiet, perfect for reading or chatting about the beautiful plants you just saw.
There’s limited seating, so early mornings are best if you want a spot inside.
5. Cheryl’s Global Soul — Where Cultures and Flavors Meet
Address: 236 Underhill Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Distance: 5 minutes from BBG
Just around the corner from the Garden, Cheryl’s Global Soul is an explosion of taste and warmth. Chef Cheryl Smith blends influences from Asia, the Caribbean, and the American South to create soulful comfort food with flair.
From shrimp and grits to Korean BBQ ribs, every dish tells a story. The brunch here is particularly popular, drawing crowds for its vibrant dishes and lively atmosphere.
Try their jambalaya or mac and cheese — both are legendary among Brooklyn locals.
6. Tom’s Restaurant — A Brooklyn Breakfast Institution
Address: 782 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Distance: ~7 minutes from BBG
No list of nearby restaurants is complete without Tom’s Restaurant, a beloved Brooklyn diner that’s been around since 1936.
This is the place for classic American breakfast — pancakes, waffles, eggs, and bacon, all served with a side of nostalgia.
The staff is famously friendly, and you might even get a free sample of coffee while you wait for your table.
Despite the name, this is not the “Seinfeld” Tom’s from Manhattan — but it’s every bit as iconic in Brooklyn.
7. Olmsted — Farm-to-Table Magic
Address: 659 Vanderbilt Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Distance: 10 minutes from BBG
Olmsted is one of the most celebrated restaurants in Brooklyn, and for good reason. Chef Greg Baxtrom, a former Alinea alum, brings creativity and sustainability to every dish.
Their garden-to-table concept is more than a slogan — the restaurant grows many of its ingredients right behind the dining area. The result is an ever-changing menu that might feature carrot crepe with littleneck clams or duck breast with seasonal greens.
The back garden is a magical place for evening dining, filled with twinkling lights and soft chatter.
8. Silver Rice — Japanese Simplicity, Elevated
Address: 575A Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225
Distance: ~12 minutes from BBG
If you want something quick, fresh, and modern, Silver Rice offers high-quality sushi and Japanese rice bowls in a minimalist setting.
The Silver Rice Cup, a sushi rice bowl topped with salmon, tuna, avocado, and other goodies, is their signature dish — ideal for a light yet satisfying meal.
They also do takeout, so you can grab your food and enjoy a picnic back at Prospect Park.
9. Lincoln Tavern — Casual Comfort in a Classic Setting
Address: 742 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Distance: ~6 minutes from the Garden
Lincoln Tavern is the kind of place that’s perfect for anyone craving a hearty burger and a beer after exploring the Garden. With exposed brick walls and warm lighting, it’s inviting without being pretentious.
Try the Brooklyn Burger — juicy, flavorful, and cooked just right — paired with truffle fries and a local IPA.
It’s a great spot if you’re with friends or family; it’s spacious and has options for everyone.
10. Butter & Scotch — Dessert and Drinks, Brooklyn Style
Address: 818 Franklin Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Distance: 12 minutes from BBG
Craving dessert? Butter & Scotch is a bakery-bar hybrid offering cakes, pies, and cocktails with a feminist twist.
From their “Birthday Cake” slice to the signature “Drunkin’ Donuts”, everything is decadent and fun.
The Bourbon Ginger Pie is a sweet-and-spicy Brooklyn classic.
Practical Tips for Food Lovers Visiting Brooklyn Botanic Garden
- Plan your visit early. The Garden is most peaceful in the morning, and restaurants nearby open for brunch around 10–11 AM.
- Use public transport. Parking in the area can be limited; subways and buses are more convenient.
- Check seasonal hours. Some local restaurants have shorter hours in winter or longer summer brunches.
- Support local cafés. There are several small coffee spots near the Garden that serve artisanal drinks and pastries — ideal for a post-walk rest.
A Culinary Walk Through Brooklyn’s Green Heart
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden isn’t just about flowers — it’s also the gateway to one of the most vibrant food neighborhoods in New York City.
From Japanese sushi at Sake Sushi to farm-to-table cuisine at Olmsted, the area offers a world of flavors within a mile or two. Whether you’re visiting during cherry blossom season or just enjoying a lazy Sunday, you’ll find that great food and natural beauty go hand in hand in Brooklyn.
So next time you’re in the neighborhood, explore beyond the gates of the Garden. You’ll discover that Brooklyn’s culinary landscape blooms just as beautifully as its gardens.