Arden

- 788 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Arden, located in the vibrant Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, has quickly established itself as a must-visit dining spot for New Yorkers. Positioned conveniently near cultural landmarks like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the Brooklyn Museum, and Prospect Park, this American restaurant offers a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere, making it ideal for a casual weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a lively weekend brunch.

The dining concept at Arden is centered on a locally focused and globally conscious menu that beautifully highlights a wood fire grill. It is a New American restaurant, grill, and bar rolled into one, promising an inventive and seasonally changing array of dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes. From creative starters and hearty entrees to exceptional brunch classics, the culinary experience at Arden is designed to be memorable, featuring balanced flavors and thoughtful preparation, as reflected in high praise from local diners.

For dinner, guests can explore a menu rich with flavor and variety. Starters include innovative selections such as the Hamachi Ceviche ($22.00), Grilled Spanish Octopus ($27.00), and Thai Duck Larb Cups ($18.00). The entree selection features standouts like the Brick Roasted Giannone Chicken “Marsala” ($34.00), the Red Wattle Bone In Pork Chop ($37.00), and the luxurious Prime Denver Cut Steak ($42.00). Lighter options are also available, including the vegetarian Hen Of The Woods Mushroom ($29.00) and the classic Arden Burger ($24.00).

The weekend brunch is particularly beloved, offering a mix of savory and sweet dishes that go far beyond the usual fare. Highlights include the indulgent Huevos Rancheros ($24.00), which features braised beef short rib, the flavorful Gulf Shrimp And Grits ($24.00), and the perfectly executed French Toast ($15.00) with fresh berries and pecans. The cocktail program, which features inventive and playfully named drinks, is noted by patrons as being superb, providing a botanical character that is especially fitting for a spot close to the Botanic Garden.

The dessert menu provides a sweet and satisfying conclusion to any meal with options like Sticky Toffee Pudding ($12.00), Chocolate Torte ($12.00 - $13.00), and a delicate Coconut Panna Cotta ($12.00). Throughout all its offerings, Arden maintains a commitment to creating an inviting atmosphere with a focus on polished service and high-quality, seasonal ingredients.

Location and Accessibility

Arden is centrally located in the heart of Brooklyn's Crown Heights neighborhood, making it a convenient destination for local residents and visitors exploring the area. Its proximity to major public spaces like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Prospect Park, and the Brooklyn Museum means it's an excellent choice for a meal before or after an outing. The restaurant is easily accessible for those relying on public transit, as it is situated just a short walk from the Franklin Avenue subway station, which is served by the 2, 3, 4, and 5 trains, a crucial detail for any New York City establishment. For those driving, the area offers a mix of free and paid street parking options.

The physical address is:

788 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA

Accessibility is a key feature, as the restaurant is designed to be welcoming to all patrons, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone.

Services Offered

Arden provides a full range of dining services to meet the needs of the New York community:

• Dine-in service with seating available for lunch, brunch, and dinner
• Reservations accepted and highly recommended for dinner to secure a table
• Table service for a relaxed and attentive dining experience
• Takeout and Delivery options for enjoying the menu at home
• Full bar service featuring a wide selection of Cocktails, Beer, Hard Liquor, and Wine
• Dedicated Brunch service on weekends
• Happy Hour deals on both drinks and food for early evening enjoyment
• Catering to dietary preferences with Vegetarian and Vegan options, as well as Organic dishes
• Provision of high chairs for family-friendly dining
• Late-night food options

Features / Highlights

Arden stands out in the Brooklyn dining scene due to several distinct characteristics that contribute to its popularity:

• Exceptional Cocktail Program: Patrons consistently praise the inventive, often musically inspired, and well-balanced cocktails.
• Wood Fire Grill Focus: The menu’s foundation is built around dishes cooked on a wood fire grill, imparting a unique and high-quality flavor profile to the cuisine.
• Great Wine List: A thoughtfully curated wine selection is available to perfectly complement the seasonal menu.
• Acclaimed Brunch: The weekend brunch is a major draw, featuring unique dishes like the Huevos Rancheros with braised short rib and Gulf Shrimp and Grits.
• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The dining room offers a mix of casual comfort and trendy style, making it a great backdrop for groups and date nights.
• Commitment to Inclusivity: Arden is a welcoming space for all, noted as family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safe space.
• High-Quality Ingredients: The kitchen emphasizes a locally focused, globally conscious, and seasonal approach to its ingredients, ensuring fresh and flavorful meals.
• Fast and Attentive Service: The staff is frequently highlighted in reviews for their kindness, attentiveness, and efficient teamwork, providing an all-around pleasant dining experience.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries, or to place an order, you can contact Arden using the following details:

Address: 788 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA

Phone: (718) 484-3266

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Arden means selecting a premier New American dining experience in Brooklyn that delivers on taste, atmosphere, and service. It is a fantastic choice for those who appreciate high-quality ingredients transformed by the specialized touch of a wood fire grill. The menu's seasonal rotation keeps things fresh and exciting, encouraging repeat visits. If you are a New Yorker searching for a spot that is excellent for both a full dinner and a lively brunch, Arden hits all the right notes.

Based on customer experiences, the brunch is a clear highlight; the short rib in the Huevos Rancheros and the rich seafood flavor of the Gulf Shrimp And Grits are often singled out for praise. For evening dining, the unique starters like Roasted Berkshire Pork Belly and the substantial entrees such as the Prime Denver Cut Steak and the Brick Roasted Giannone Chicken “Marsala” offer deeply satisfying and complex flavors. Furthermore, the commitment to craft cocktails makes Arden an ideal choice for a sophisticated happy hour or an enjoyable prelude to your meal.

The restaurant’s ambiance—small, personal, and with fun touches like journals carrying the check—creates a "darling" and memorable outing. For residents in Crown Heights and visitors to the nearby Brooklyn Botanic Garden or Prospect Park, Arden provides a top-tier neighborhood destination that consistently earns rave reviews for its excellent food, exceptional drink list, and genuinely warm service.

Arden

788 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA