Restaurants Near the Brooklyn Bridge

So you've walked the historic Brooklyn Bridge, you've taken in the gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline, and you've descended down the bridge's steps into Brooklyn. Now what?

You're most likely tired, you're most likely hungry, and you're most likely looking for a relaxing place to sit. Luckily, you're in DUMBO -- a neighborhood with plenty of delicious places to rest your weary feet.

Below find your guide to the best restaurants within walking distance of the Brooklyn Bridge.

The Classics

One of the most romantic spots in all of New York City, the River Café (1 Water Street) offers upscale fare and fantastic views of the East River. This award-winning restaurant is fairly expensive, and reservations are recommended. Don't miss the famous chocolate dessert in the shape of the Brooklyn Bridge.

At Grimaldi's (19 Old Fulton Street), the line may stretch down the block, but a slice (or three) of this legendary pizza is worth the wait. Each Grimaldi's pie is baked in a coal-fired wood oven, and the resulting dish--a perfectly charred thin-crusted pizza with fresh basil and mozzarella--is fantastic.

The New Elite

If you're traveling with kids in tow, a trip to Bubby's (1 Main Street) might be worth it. Though the food at this enormous restaurant can be hit or miss, it's a family favorite. Locals come here for hearty brunches, sandwiches, and burgers. The place is also (for good reason) proud of its pie, so save room for dessert.

Five Front (5 Front Street) offers a slightly less crazed dining experience. This restaurant serves New American cuisine: dishes ranging from hearty sandwiches and burgers to grilled hangar steak and goat cheese gnocchi. Five Front's back garden is a pretty spot for dining or drinking a glass of wine.

A relative newcomer to the DUMBO dining scene, Dumbo General Store & Hecho en Dumbo (111 Front Street) are located in the same building but offer two very different faces. By day, the place is called "Dumbo General Store" and serves up a great assortment of pressed sandwiches, along with beer, fine coffees, and teas. A fun boutique in the corner of the café makes for an interesting visit. By night, the restaurant becomes "Hecho en Dumbo" and offers fine Mexican food (share the $17 sampler platter with a friend) and delicious margaritas.

Water Street Restaurant (66 Water Street) is a restaurant, bar, and lounge that often has live music. A great ambience and quick service make for an enjoyable meal. Try the Maryland crab cake, the crispy fried calamari, or the pan roasted catfish.

The Sweet

The Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory (1 Water Street), located just beneath the Brookyn Bridge, at the Fulton Ferry Landing, has been a favorite Brooklyn sweet spot since its opening in 2001. Serving just eight classic flavors, this dessert shop offers fresh, all-natural ice cream, along with great views of downtown Manhattan.

Almondine (85 Water Street) is said to have the best almond croissants in Brooklyn. This French bakery offers everything from cookies and muffins to freshly-baked breads and buttery pastries. Stop by for a cup of coffee and a baked treat, or try some just-made soup or a sandwich. Nothing will disappoint.

Finally, chocolate lovers won't want to pass up Jacques Torres (66 Water Street), where you can watch chocolate delicacies being made before your eyes. The chocolate factory boasts a store where you can buy a variety of sweet goods (hot cocoa, chocolate-peanut-brittle, chocolate chip cookies, truffles, chocolate-covered treats, and more). My favorite is the enormous (and delicious) ice cream sandwich, the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day.