Windsor Terrace Brooklyn, NY

The area comprising northwestern Brooklyn remained outlying farmland for centuries after the arrival of Dutch colonists in the 1600s. Originally straddling the border of the colonial towns of Flatbush and Brooklyn, Windsor Terrace became incorporated as a village in 1851. Under developer William Bell’s influence, large numbers of German, Irish, Italian and Polish immigrants settled the area around that time. The brick rowhouses built in the 1850s still survive, and many residents can trace their family history in the area back to that initial period of development.

By the turn of the 21st century, Brooklynites from neighborhoods such as Park Slope and Brooklyn Heights began moving in to Windsor Terrace in search of more affordable rents, diversifying the population. Residents enjoy easy access to cultural institutions in nearby Park Slope and Prospect Heights, including the Brooklyn Museum and the central branch of the Brooklyn Public Library.

Although not on the radar for Brooklynites seeking the hottest new eateries, Windsor Terrace has plenty of quality restaurants, many of which cluster at the northern edge of the neighborhood. Night owls hoping to party hard may want to look elsewhere, but several laid-back bars dot the neighborhood, mostly near the area's north side. They provide an essential service for those looking to grab a drink or two in a low-key atmosphere.

Beloved by area residents, Krupa Grocery on Prospect Park West near 16th Street serves casual American fare all day long. From breakfast gnocchi in the morning to the lamb burger later in the day, diners find plenty to rave about. The dining room features rustic hardwood tables, and many dishes arrive on wooden planks.

For classic French cuisine in a casual atmosphere, check out Le P'tit Paris Bistro on Prospect Park West near Prospect Avenue. Regulars swoon over the hanger steak and escargot, and brunch on the weekends means you can order the eggs Benedict, cooked to perfection. Add in friendly service and a cozy dining room, and you have a recipe for a go-to neighborhood spot.

A little later on in the evening, grab a few friends and head to The Adirondack on Prospect Avenue near Reeve Place. With an upstate-New York theme and a wide selection of local beers on tap, The Adirondack transports visitors out of the city and into more rural lands. The cabin-like interior, friendly bartenders and laid-back vibe converge to make this a bar perfectly suited to the neighborhood.

Windsor Terrace receives high ratings for walkability, and you can run daily errands without leaving the neighborhood. At the same time, extensive and reliable mass transit systems make for easy access to the rest of the city. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority operates a 24-hour subway system, and the F and G trains offer service to Manhattan, southern Brooklyn and Queens. Residents also have access to numerous bus routes bound for points in all directions. Given these options, commuters to midtown Manhattan can make the journey in about 40 minutes. Many residents bike, particularly in the warmer months, and they tend to compete with far less traffic than in Manhattan neighborhoods. Prospect Park has a designated bike route along its southern border.

Car owners can find street parking relatively easily, particularly farther away from the park. Some parking garages also exist for those willing to pay. Drivers facing longer commutes can hop on Prospect Expressway, which runs right through the area. For a quick trip, hail a green city taxi or, better yet, reserve an Uber.

No single park dominates outdoor life in Windsor Terrace like Prospect Park at the neighborhood’s eastern edge. A true urban oasis, Prospect Park covers nearly 600 acres and features running and jogging paths, barbecuing areas and numerous athletic facilities. The park also has designated areas for dogs and hosts a popular, free summertime concert series.

On the western side of Windsor Terrace lies the expansive Green-Wood Cemetery, a nearly 500-acre green space featuring rolling hills, ponds, historic mausoleums and walking tours. At the cemetery’s annual Memorial Day concert, area residents bring blankets and snacks to listen to orchestral music while taking in the first rays of summer.

The cost of living in Windsor Terrace has remained slightly lower than the New York City average. Renters face monthly rates of $2,150 on average for a one-bedroom residence, with units near the park going for the highest prices.

The neighborhood’s distance from Manhattan and suburban feel keep prices for groceries and other everyday items a bit lower than the New York City average. A beer at the local bar sets you back around $6, and a car service to midtown Manhattan can cost around $40. Gas prices hover below the New York City average but 8 percent greater than the national average.

Though primarily a residential neighborhood, Windsor Terrace nurtures a healthy small-business community at its northern end. Here shoppers find independent purveyors of clothing, books and arts supplies.

For the latest in knitting supplies and other arts materials, Windsor Terrace residents turn to Argyle Yarn Shop on Prospect Park West near 18th Street. With friendly, personalized service and a one-of-a-kind collection of yarns and patterns, Argyle contains hidden gems for anyone willing to look. Regulars point to the owners’ friendly demeanor and depth of knowledge as attributes that keep them coming back. Make sure to check the store’s calendar, too, for knitting classes at all skill levels.

Two blocks north on Prospect Park West, Terrace Books keeps bookworms engaged with an eclectic and surprising selection of texts. In the tradition of independent booksellers, the store prizes quality over quantity, leading to serendipitous finds for curious shoppers. Regular readings and events highlight local authors.

Residents seeking groceries and everyday items find various options in Windsor Terrace, mainly of the independent variety. United Meat Market provides quality butcher services, and stores such as Shop Smart Food Mart offer kitchen staples. The Bartel-Pritchard Square Sunday Greenmarket provides farm-fresh fruits and veggies as well as baked goods and specialty items. This farmers market is held on Sundays between 8 am and 3 pm.