Red Hook: Here's where to eat, shop and fish

As the days get warmer and the crocuses and daffodils pop their colorful heads out of the ground, there’s no better time to get out and enjoy a part of the city you may have overlooked.

Red Hook has been a popular spot for foodies and Brooklynites looking for bargains at just reopened post-Superstorm Sandy Fairway Market for years.

Still, other New Yorkers have visited the area to hit up the Swedish housewares behemoth IKEA. But between those two stores and various hole-in-the-wall eateries there is an historic neighborhood with something for everyone.

Visiting Red Hook can feel like a blast from the past. It has a quaint, almost beach town feel, with cobblestone streets leading to New York harbor and nautical accents on buildings. There are antique stores with their wares falling out onto the sidewalks and cafes and wine sellers. There are galleries galore, including the popular Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition (Bwac.org).

It’s also an underdeveloped area, with only the Red Hook NYCHA Houses clocking in above six stories. The seafaring vibe has largely remained, to residents’ delight.

The economic anchor of the neighborhood is the Fairway Market (480-500 Van Brunt St.), located in the old Red Hook Stores warehouse building. Superstorm Sandy destroyed the market, and after renovations, it re-opened March 1. Even if you’re not there for groceries, grab a snack and head to the outdoor area, complete with more water views.

Another community gem is the Added Value Farm, located in the shadow of IKEA at 580 Columbia St. This 3-acre urban farm was founded in 2000 and has been supplying produce to the neighborhood and area restaurants for years. When Sandy hit, the farm took on nearly three feet of water.

And if you’re in the area any day but Sunday and are hankering for an authentic Brooklyn hero, head to Defonte’s, (379 Columbia St., Defontesinbrooklyn.com). Don’t skip the fried eggplant, and get there by 4 p.m.