As usual, our good intentions to have an early start for our excursion to DUMBO Brooklyn were thwarted by matters not in our control. No worries though, we eventually made it and had a great time in this little village within the Big Apple.
Jane’s Carousel
Sticking with our recent theme of merry-go-rounds, our first stop of the evening was Jane’s Carousel. Unlike the sea glass adventure we had recently, this carousel is of the classic nature. What is spectacular about it is the unbeatable view. The ride was very short, but cost just $2. (NOTE COVID precautions: masks and a health screening form must be completed before entry. Also, we watched as staff sanitized everything between seatings.)
Dinner in DUMBO Brooklyn
We walked through the gritty, colorful streets of Dumbo to our next destination: Love and Dough. I found this restaurant online and, aside from loving the name (!), I chose it because they have outside seating and they take reservations (unlike Juliana’s and Grimaldi’s).
Love and Dough restaurant is nestled just to the side of the Manhattan bridge. At first I was worried because the rumbling of the trains and cars overhead were so loud and disruptive. It was more noisy than Manhattan ever is! Nina even mentioned how difficult it was to have a conversation. Soon, however, we all adjusted (as one does); we were just happy to be outside enjoying our city.
There was a party happening two doors down at Love and Dough’s sister restaurant. We ordered, and I pessimistically predicted that our food would be delayed or that our order would be incorrect. I was SO WRONG! Our server (who had only been working there for a week) was excellent. The food came super fast and was really good.
We weren’t going to order dessert, but since we were all craving a sweet (as usual), we selected the Nutella pizza. This dish was completely different from what I expected. Instead of a pizza, what we got was more like a calzone. I can hardly attempt to describe this delicious concoction, but basically, it was a toasty bread pocket with gobs and gobs of slathered Nutella inside, and covered with a plentiful sauce…maybe sour cherry? It was outstanding!
Art Installations
The inspiration for going to DUMBO came from an article that I read about a “photo series honoring parents” that is projected onto the side of the Manhattan Bridge. This event was held daily at sundown between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day 2021 (sadly, this blog post will come out a bit too late for any of you readers to go).
The venue was right across the street from Love and Dough, so we tried to watch it right after dinner. Unfortunately, the video was too difficult to see in the light of dusk, so we went to explore the neighborhood and work off some Nutella calories.
Alex found the trip “little boring”, but I disagree. I really enjoy getting a vibe for different neighborhoods around Manhattan, and this one didn’t disappoint. Its really hopping in DUMBO! I imagine this is the choice location for hip 20- somethings to reside.
Ice Cream
Since we walked off some calories, Nina and Renato just HAD to have some ice cream. The line outside of Ample Hills Creamery was out of control, but they decided it was worth it. Happily enjoying second dessert, we wandered, observed and just enjoyed the lovely evening.
I highly recommend a visit to DUMBO…you will surely love it!
