Celestine

On the Brooklyn waterfront in DUMBO is the Eastern Mediterranean restaurant and event space known as Celestine. The restaurant, which is close to the Manhattan Bridge, provides panoramic views of the two bridges as well as the downtown skyline. Seasonal, soulful cuisine with Middle Eastern, African, and Mediterranean influences is served by executive chef Garett McMahan. The wine list, which emphasizes small coastal Mediterranean producers, reflects this focus.

A delectable, chic restaurant with a breath-taking view of the Manhattan skyline across the sparkling East River, Celestine is that exceptional thing. The establishment is upscale but thoroughly unpretentious, with the décor suitably restrained to direct all attention to what's beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows. It is a collaboration between partners whose other independent ventures include Brooklyn hot spots like Rucola, Grand Army, and Fausto.

A turmeric gin and tonic is just one of the interesting variations on Middle Eastern, North African, and Mediterranean cuisine that are offered on the menu. The branzino is as fresh and cooked to perfection as you always hope the ubiquitous fish will be, though it rarely is, and the shortrib manti make a delicious appetizer of dumplings. But to be honest, all you really need for a fantastic meal is a house-made za'atar flatbread, a leafy green salad with pumpkin seeds and kasseri cheese, and a glass of Spanish red.

• Tripadvisor ratings: 4.0/5
• Website: https://celestinebk.com/
• Location: 1 John St, Brooklyn, NY 11201