New York City Dumbo

Dumbo General Store, 111 Front St. (at Washington St.) (www.dumbogeneralstore.com), The DGS, barely attempting to conceal the high ceilings and exposed walls that mark it as a former industrial space, is a perfect fit in this post-warehouse neighborhood. Classic American style food is spiced up by a panini menu, and the huge tables establish a refreshingly open, communal vibe. Night closing times vary. Breakfast $6.25-12. Panini $8-12. Entrees $8-14. Open M-Th 7:30am-10pm, Sa 8am-10pm, Su 9am-10pm. Does not take credit cards. Wheelchair access. Serves alcohol.
Grimaldi's Pizzeria, 19 Old Fulton St. (www.grimaldis.com), The hugely popular Grimaldi's has quickly turned into a DUMBO favorite; expect to wait, most likely outside, on weekends. You'll be mingling with locals and skyline-seeking tourists alike; the coal-oven pizzeria is just down the block from the waterfront and ferry landing. Pizzas $12-14. Calzones $14-16. Open M-Th 11:30am-11pm, F 11:30am-11:45pm, Sa noon-11:45pm, Su noon-11pm. Does not take credit cards. Wheelchair access. Serves alcohol. Has air conditioning.
Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, 1 Water St. (at Old Fulton St.) (www.brooklynicecreamfactory.com), The factory is perhaps best known for its distinctive location—a twenties-era firehouse right on the waterfront—but brave the lines and try a scoop or two for fresh, house-made ingredients and toppings. The views from the deck in front are spectacular, especially on the hot summer days that make this a go-to stop for many borough-hopping tourists. 1 scoop $3.50, 2 $5.50, 3 $6.50. Sundaes and milk shakes $6.50-7.50. Open M-Th and Su noon-10pm, F-Sa noon-11pm. Does not take credit cards. Wheelchair access. Has outdoor seating.
Pedro's Mexican Bar and Restaurant, 73 Jay St. (at Front St.) Watch your head in Pedro's hot, semi-subterranean depths; the ceiling is low, perfect for trapping the delicious scents from the exposed kitchen. The stark menu is packed with Mexican and Spanish standards. Along with the vibrantly colored building, it's a nice departure from the industrial surroundings. Appetizers and entrees $3-12. Open M-Th and Su 11am-midnight, F-Sa 11am-2am. Does not take credit cards. No wheelchair access. Serves alcohol. Has outdoor seating.