Red Hook is the oasis outside the City that's SO close to the City. An old fishing and shipping neighborhood, Red Hook houses some of the friendliest businesses - and people, in all of the five boroughs, due largely in part to its NYC meets New England vibes. You won't find high-end boutiques or five-star restaurants, but everything combined will make up an all-around five-star experience unlike any other in NYC (and, trust - you'll discover a handful of other gems not on this list, too).
I've lived in the 'hood for nearly 8 years and I'm so glad I signed up to do this guide because I got to go to Botanica. They've a wide variety of cocktails, supporting local vendors like Widow Jane Whiskey and Cacao Prieto Rum from next door. The atmosphere is wonderfully airy and low key, too.
