Alma

Alma represents a singular dining experience—a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Built from the ground up, handcrafted by the four owners, each of the three floors offers a unique atmosphere. Two floors of views boast plenty to see at this Columbia Waterfront District staple. The downstairs dining room is actually one flight above street level, with a rooftop another staircase above. Chilaquiles, enchiladas and several types of tacos are available across each, in addition to some of the best frozen drinks in NYC. And Alma is also one of the best restaurants for group dining in New York City.

A popular destination on Columbia Street’s restaurant row, three-story Alma serves fancy regional Mexican food in a giddy, casual atmosphere. Although the ground floor bar and mid-level dining room are great, diners clamor for a seat on the rooftop patio (open year-round!) for inspiring views of the Manhattan skyline and the glittering, accidental beauty of cargo-loaders below. The food ranges from old standards (fresh, cilantro-heavy salsa and creamy, addictive guac) to sophisticated dishes like huachinango a la naranja, a red snapper with orange sauce, which is as airy and light as the view.

Google rate: 4.0/5.0

Website: almarestaurant.com

Address: 187 Columbia St, Brooklyn, NY 11231-14

Contact: 718-643-5400

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5:30pm-10pm; Fri 5-11pm; Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-10pm