Dumbo, Brooklyn: An Oasis Down Under

It’s almost 10,000 miles away from her hometown of Sydney, Australia, but Dumbo “feels a lot like home” to handbag designer Lisa Pongrass. “I’ve always lived near the water, and Dumbo (short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is just footsteps from the East River, which lends it a very peaceful and calming air.” Though Pongrass moved to New York City in 2008, Dumbo’s unique character convinced her not only to settle there in 2015 but also to start her business— Canvas & Hyde (canvasandhyde.com, 347.559.9758)—there the same year. Her handbags and satchels are produced locally at the Brooklyn Navy Yard (141 Flushing Ave., 718.907.5900), with a second manufacturing site in Florence, Italy. “I try to integrate classic designs with both contemporary and timeless elegance. I never want them to be the It bag of the moment, discarded next season,” says Pongrass. Pongrass finds her waterside slice of Brooklyn an idyllic setting for creative inspiration. “It lets you feel like you live in a small, vibrant, creative town, yet you’re a 14-minute taxi or quick subway ride from one of the planet’s biggest metropolises.” —by Suzanne Shelley DEJA VIEWS Brooklyn Bridge Park  offers “a bucolic green space for local residents and visitors, with perfect views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge, and Manhattan’s iconic skyline.” 334 Furman St., 718.222.9939 SHOP TALK “As Dumbo has evolved, there seems to be a nostalgic focus on celebrating smaller, local businesses and family- owned shops. This has encouraged a dynamic mix of contemporary and ‘yesteryear’ retail.” Among the best: Thea Grant “offers handmade and vintage jewelry for women and men, and an eclectic array of repurposed keepsakes and collectibles.” 63-b Pearl St., 917.330.9258 The iconic Brooklyn Flea , in the Manhattan Bridge Archway (Sundays, April–Oct.), is a draw for locals and visitors. “I marvel at the diversity of artistry, creativity, and talent on display. I go as often as I can, and I’ve picked up amazing finds that have influenced my own brand’s direction.” 80 Pearl St., 718.928.6603 The River Café; Photo @DANYCREATIVEDESIGN LOCAL DISH One of the city’s oldest and most romantic restaurants, The River Café “has the most charming bar and piano player. Watching the twinkling lights of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline bouncing off the river is lovely, and with its ‘jackets required’ dress code and air of formality, you feel like you’re in a Frank Sinatra movie.” 1 Water St., 718.522.5200 Dumbo also boasts “one of the best French patisseries outside of Paris. For any connoisseur of croissants, chocolate ganache, and pain au chocolat, Almondine Bakery is a must!” 85 Water St., 718.797.5026 Cecconi’s Dumbo; Photo by Dave Burke Cecconi’s Dumbo (55 Water St., 718.650.3900) “is a great Italian brasserie with a beautiful indoor and outdoor space on the water near the antique Jane’s Carousel .” 40 Dock St., 718.222.2502 A new addition, the  Time Out Market , features culinary offerings from some of the city’s best restaurants and food entrepreneurs in a counter-service format. “It’s got fantastic grab-and-go options if you don’t want to sit down for a formal meal, and a bar, tables, and a roof deck for those who prefer to linger.” 55 Water St., 917.810.4855 NIGHTS OUT For a nightcap or catching up with friends, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge “has a beautiful vertical garden in the lobby and one of the best rooftop bars in the city—super modern and elegant.” 60 Furman St., 347.696.2500 Finally, for live theater “that has a warm community feel,” St. Ann’s Warehouse offers a diverse roster of dramas, musical events, and concerts. 45 Water St., 718.254.8779 Search for your next home in Brooklyn.