9.Carroll Gardens
Why You Should Move Here
“Gardens” wasn’t just appended to the end of this neighborhood’s name to make it sound classy: it’s a reference to the oldest homes here, which are set back a few dozen feet from the street to allow for large front gardens. “It is this legacy that sets us apart from being just another brownstone neighborhood,” Katia Kelly has written on her Pardon Me for Asking blog. Like in Cobble Hill—which, c’mon, aren’t these basically one neighborhood? Let’s call it Smithtown—a bumper crop of stylish nightlife spots occupy Carroll Gardens’ section of Smith Street. But the neighborhood also still retains the flavor of its Italian immigrant community. In the last 20 years, an influx of French have arrived, as well, making Carroll Gardens home to an annual Bastille Day celebration.
What the Future Holds
The city is in the process of trying to create a larger historic district, which critics say imposes an undue burden on property owners; supporters point to studies that say property values rise in historic districts. Buy now!
Where You’ll Find Us
Wondering why we never see Mike Conklin at Abilene anymore. Enjoying the croissants at Provence et Boite. Making a meal of the sides at Buttermilk Channel. Cramming into a corner at Bar Great Harry. Eating garlic pita bread at Zaytoons.
Second Thoughts
The neighborhood also still retains the flavor of its Italian immigrant community. In the last 20 years, an influx of French have arrived, as well, making Carroll Gardens home to an annual Bastille Day celebration.
How Much
Average rental of a two-bedroom apartment: $2,300