Prospect Lefferts Gardens - Brooklyn, NY

First settled by a Dutch family in 1660, the area now known as Prospect Lefferts Gardens remained rural for centuries afterward. Only in 1893 did James Lefferts, then owner of the land, divide the area into lots to sell to developers. Lefferts dictated several building restrictions, some still in effect today for a sector of the neighborhood, including that each lot contain a single-family home at least two stories high.

Throughout the 20th century, the area attracted mostly middle-class residents from all over the city. By the early 21st century, a new surge of settlement had begun, as Brooklynites from neighborhoods like Park Slope looked for more affordable housing.

History buffs can find a home from the neighborhood’s early days in nearby Prospect Park. The Lefferts Historic House, built in 1783 by Pieter Lefferts, has served as a museum since moving from Flatbush Avenue and Maple Street in 1918.

Prospect Lefferts Gardens may fall just off the Brooklyn dining map, but residents who know where to look find plenty of options. Flatbush Avenue near Prospect Park acts as a major thoroughfare and features many of the best restaurants and bars. Although not a nightlife destination, the area features enough laid-back bars and lounges to satisfy most night owls.

Area residents flock to King of Tandoor on Flatbush Avenue near Rutland Road for traditional Indian specialties in a no-frills atmosphere. Diners enjoy typical favorites like chicken tikka masala with garlic naan, served with a smile. If your taste buds can handle a bit of spice, try the lamb vindaloo, and chase it with a mango lassi.

For Italian dining in an equally relaxed atmosphere, check out Gino’s Trattoria on Flatbush Avenue near Lincoln Road. Here guests enjoy brick-oven pizza, calzones and an array of pasta dishes, including the ever-popular lobster ravioli. Music lovers enjoy the live musicians featured in the dining room on certain nights.

A little later on in the evening, grab a few friends and head to Midwood Flats on Flatbush Avenue near Midwood Street. The rustic brick exterior leads to a cozy lounge with friendly staff and talented bartenders. Don’t miss the quality beer list, which has craft selections from near and far. Hungry revelers are in luck, as Midwood Flats serves delectable bar food and snacks, from Cubans to burgers and potato croquettes.

Prospect Lefferts Gardens receives high ratings for walkability. You can run most errands without leaving the neighborhood, though those who live near the eastern border may find this more difficult. Luckily, extensive and reliable mass transit systems make for easy access to the rest of the city. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) operates a 24-hour subway system, and the B and Q trains run along the west end of the neighborhood, providing easy access to Manhattan and southern Brooklyn. The 2 and 5 trains run farther east on Nostrand Avenue, providing service to Manhattan and south to Flatbush. Commuters also have access to numerous bus routes running in all directions. Given these options, commuters to midtown Manhattan can often make the journey in as little as 40 minutes.

Some residents bike, particularly in the warmer months, and they compete with less traffic than in Manhattan neighborhoods. Several major streets, including Bedford Avenue, have bike lanes, and Flatbush Avenue leads right to Prospect Park. Car owners can find street parking relatively easily, and parking garages also exist for those willing to pay. Drivers facing longer commutes can follow Eastern Parkway to Jackie Robinson Parkway or head southwest to Ocean Parkway. For a quick trip, hail a green city taxi along a major avenue or, better yet, reserve a ride through Uber.

No single park dominates outdoor life in Prospect Lefferts Gardens like Prospect Park at the neighborhood’s western edge. A true urban oasis, Prospect Park covers nearly 600 acres and features running and jogging paths, barbecuing areas, numerous athletic facilities and play spaces for children, including a water play area. The park also has designated areas for dogs and hosts a popular (and free) summertime concert series.

Every October residents turn out for the Halloween Haunted Walk. Fun for all ages, the event features costumed characters, carnival games, music and a terrifying journey through a haunted section of Prospect Park.

The cost of living in Prospect Lefferts Gardens has remained slightly lower than New York City at large. Renters face an average monthly rate of $1,400 for studios and $2,000 for two-bedrooms, though thorough hunters can find cheaper options on the area’s east side.

The fair distance from Manhattan keeps prices for groceries and other everyday items slightly below the New York City average. A beer at the local bar sets you back around $5, and a car service to midtown Manhattan can cost as little as $35. Gas prices hover below the New York City average but 7 percent greater than the national average.

Though not a shopping destination for those outside the area, Prospect Lefferts Gardens offers shoppers plenty to occupy their time. Smaller businesses have the upper hand against large chains, and the majority of the stores lie along the western edge of the neighborhood.

On Flatbush Avenue near Woodruff Avenue, Trim-Fabrics stocks a wide range of fabrics and every type of trimming imaginable. With merchandise hanging from the ceiling and covering every inch of wall space, the store provides a one-of-a-kind experience and an unparalleled opportunity to unearth treasures. Regulars rave about the quirky but friendly owner, who’s always ready to help you sort through the madness to find what you need.

Farther north on Flatbush, Play Kids features children’s toys and baby supplies, with a focus on smart design, environmental responsibility and practicality. With items from both name brands and local artisans filling the shelves, parents can find the right gift at the right price. The store holds regular events as well, including sing-alongs and dance classes.

Residents seeking groceries and everyday items find various options in Prospect Lefferts Gardens, including chains such as Associated and specialty groceries like Tony’s Meat Market. Food lovers in search of farm-fresh fare should head north along Prospect Park to the Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket, open Saturdays year-round.