An empty stretch of land along the Williamsburg waterfront got a much-needed
facelift last weekend. Smorgasburg, the open-air market that began last year with
great fanfare, is back for the season. Every Saturday for the rest of the summer,
hoards of hungry Brooklynites will get a chance to sample artisanal goodies ranging
from freshly prepared dishes to gourmet condiments from around the world.
Over 250 people showed up on April 7 to kick off the festival held by Brooklyn
Flea, an association of flea markets started by Brownstoner.com founder Jonathan
Butler and Eric Demby, a former spokesman for Brooklyn Borough President Marty
Markowitz. The festival features stalls serving grub as varied as rabbit stew shots
and fried anchovies. Less daring customers can choose safer options like brisket,
lobster rolls or pizza.
Smorgasburg is just one example of a movement dedicated to local and sustainable
food that has swept Brooklyn’s culinary scene over the past few years. Many of the
vendors are deeply committed to using only the freshest produce supplied by local
purveyors. It’s also a sign of a Brooklyn’s healthy economy. Since 2000 and 2010,
the borough has created more than 50,000 jobs – more than any other borough –
with over 9,300 jobs in food services alone.
If you missed it this week, don’t worry: Smorgasburg will be around until November,
leaving plenty of opportunities to whet your apetite.
Hours: Smorgasburg is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. every Saturday until November.
Location: Between North Sixth and Seventh Streets on the East River in
Williamsburg, Brooklyn. (Bedford stop on the L train.)
For more information, check out the Smorgasburg website.
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