Grimaldi's
Located near Fulton Ferry Landing and DUMBO, only serves its delicious brick oven pizza by the pie, not the slice, and does not accept credit cards. It's still worth it. For best results, line up before their noon opening time, when their coal oven is at its hottest.
Junior's Restaurant and Bakery
Sure, you can eat their famous cheesecake in Grand Central, but why not try the original? With an ad announcing loud and clear that this is it, it's one of the first places you'll see coming off the Manhattan bridge. Home to what is known as "the most fabulous cheesecake," and also featuring New York deli items like tongue sandwiches, this restaurant has been a Brooklyn favorite for decades. The gracious waiters, dressed immaculately in suits and ties, are part of the atmosphere.
Madiba
South African food in a township chic setting. Enjoy such dishes as Biltong and Droewors, Samosas South African style, Bobotie, and of course, Peri Peri. Accompany dinner with South African wine and finish it off with a milk tart.
Scopello
Delicious Sicilian/Italian food, also influenced by Greek, Spanish, and Arabic cuisines. Warm atmosphere. Dinner is usually under $20. The sardine appetizer is incredible.
Yemen Cafe
Serves as an informal community center for the local Yemeni community, but don't be put off by the social club atmosphere; the staff are very friendly and welcoming, and the food especially the lamb is very tasty and inexpensive two people can pig out for about $40. Note: This is a halal establishment that serves no alcohol and would not be an appropriate place to bring your own. Have the spiced tea, instead.