Celestine
ZipPicks Awards
Best Romantic Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Trendy Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Farm to Table Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Master Critic Review
Celestine
8.5
Celestine is a Mediterranean-leaning restaurant at the base of the Manhattan Bridge with wraparound windows framing the skyline and river. Its mezze, lamb, and seafood skew slightly upscale without feeling formal, making it a favorite for date nights that hinge on both flavor and views. The terrace and soft, candlelit interior tilt romantic whether you’re sharing a bottle of wine or a family-style spread.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal Mezze Platter, Harissa Roasted Chicken, Whole Branzino
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Riverfront Mediterranean plates with dramatic bridge views and soft lighting.
Who should go: View-obsessed couples sharing mezze, wine, and a long evening
When to visit: Book just before sunset to watch the skyline shift to night
What to order: Mezze platter, harissa roasted chicken, whole branzino
Insider tip: Ask for a window or terrace table and plan a post-dinner waterfront walk.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in DUMBO, especially near the waterfront; nearby paid garages along Front St. and Pearl St. are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; elevated outfits feel at home with the views, but no formalwear required.
Noise level: Moderate; the room is lively during peak hours but still allows comfortable conversation across the table.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-in waits can stretch 45–75 minutes depending on weather and terrace demand.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal waits, with same-day reservations easy to secure when lunch service is offered.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection of mezze and several mains can be made vegetarian; staff is accustomed to modifying dishes.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; expect a few mezze options and occasional seasonal vegetable dishes.
Gluten-free options: Many plates are naturally gluten-free, including seafood and grilled items; cross-contact is manageable but not guaranteed.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Celestine’s river views, warm lighting, and shareable mezze create an easy, romantic atmosphere without overwhelming formality.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weekdays, but weekends are challenging. Walk-ins should arrive early and be open to bar seating or outdoor tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; the space skews romantic and adult-focused, though well-behaved older kids are welcome during earlier seatings.
Best For
Better for: Couples seeking skyline views with Mediterranean flavors in a setting that feels special without being stiff.
Skip if: You want extremely quiet dining, budget-friendly plates, or highly adventurous cuisine—other DUMBO spots may fit those needs better.