The intersection of Flatbush and Nostrand avenues, affectionately known as Flatbush Junction, is a thriving commercial district with a rich history and a mix of beauty, fashion, culinary, and musical offerings. Its eclectic mix of attractions features farmers markets, Brooklyn Public Library Outdoors, the annual Upcycled Holiday Tree Contest, Steelpan Rising, and the African Pop-Up Festival. Take the 2 or the 5 train to Flatbush/Brooklyn College or any of the nine bus routes that lead to this hub of national retailers, small businesses, and Brooklyn College, and experience a nexus of cultures, including Caribbean, Jewish, South Asian and more.
Walk southwest on Nostrand Avenue just past Avenue I to Juicy Box for a smoothie or wellness shot before popping into Nike’s Flatbush themed, two-level community store for footwear, apparel, accessories and, of course, Jordans. From there, head to Bulletproof Comics -- an old school comic book shop with a curated selection of skateboards, t-shirts, original art and books. Across Flatbush you’ll find authentic Jamaican flavors at Fisherman’s Cove, including oxtail, jerk specialties with curry infusions served atop rice, plantains and steamed vegetables. Finally, no visit to the Flatbush Junction is complete without a visit to Lord’s Bakery, a 40-year-old institution known for their iconic storefront and red velvet and photo cakes.
See the largest concentration in New York City of triangular shaped buildings within a half-mile radius, by walking along Flatbush Avenue from Avenue H to Farragut. Here, you’ll find a gem of a strip, also known for its barber shops, beauty, and nail salons. Stop into Fleur de Lis, a Haitian-owned med spa, for a facial or wellness and immunity booster. If you need a top-rated stylist with a warm welcome, go to Jay's Beauty Bar for a deep conditioning treatment, silk press or knotless braids.
For a quick bite, don’t miss McBeans for tasty Guyanese-Jamaican cuisine, like bake with ackee and saltfish. Or make your way to Oui Cocktail Lounge, the Junction’s new luxury bar for cocktails and tropical delicacies --oxtail empanadas or jerk lamb chops tossed in tamarind sauce, to name a couple. Another don’t miss is Kookies & Kream, an Afro-Caribbean ice cream shop for passionfruit and mango gelato, sorbet or shaved ice.
As your visit to the Junction winds down, take a break and relax on Hillel Plaza- a welcoming community space outfitted with recylcled furniture made from ocean plastic. And speaking of oceans, as your visit to this dynamic neighborood comes to an end, you may want to consider hopping on the Q35 bus for some fun in the sun at the Rockaways orJacob Riis Park Beach.
