Once in a while you stumble upon music that miraculously guides your travels and eases the pain of the unknown. Here is an artist who is not only incredibly talented, but who has inspired many of the writers of So Elsewhere to explore their hidden travel fantasies. Introducing, Jan Bell!

For more information or to purchase her music visit, http://www.janbellmusic.com.

Gone are the days when one could smoke a joint in the dilapidated parks of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) and stare at work done by Shepard Fairy. Now, luxury high rises crowd this beautiful part of Brooklyn and stay at home moms married to stock brokers dot the streets with 4-digit baby carriers and minority nannies. Though DUMBO has kicked out most of the artists who made this place interesting and welcomed wealthy families, there are a few genuine “DUMBO” spots remaining whose business we would gladly support.

Superfine
126 Front St. between Jay and Pearl Sts.; 718-243-9005

Started by local DUMBO artists, Superfine has grown into a successful DUMBO establishment. The Mediterranean-style food is creative and moderately priced for the booming area and the sunken bar and orange-felted pool table is a great place to catch up with a friend.
Price: Moderate

68 Jay Street Bar
68 Jay St., Brooklyn, NY 11201

Also known as “The Corner Bar” to the editors of So Elsewhere, here one of the few places that caters to the art-world crowd and DUMBO locals. The drinks are well priced, especially during happy hour, and the patrons will not hesitate to start up a conversation with anyone who walks in. The fact that you can bring in outside food is really the cherry on top. Make sure to enjoy a drink after hours and listen to some live music.

Note: Watch out ladies, there are a few characters (including the owner and a Frenchie) who believe they are entitled to any woman of their choice.

Happy Hour: Mon – Fri $3 drafts, $4 well-drinks

Pedros
73 Jay St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Enjoy excellent Latin American/Mexican food at one of DUMBO’s original dive restaurants. While the interior is gritty, take a bit of the food (and look at the prices) and you will have a hard time leaving this place.  During the summer months, order their famous Margarita and take a seat outside to study the magnificent murals that decorate the building.

P.S. Bookshop
145A Front St
Brooklyn, NY 11201
(718) 222-3340

Finally a relaxing used bookshop in Brooklyn. The moment you walk into the store it is impossible to leave without a book, or at least dreaming about them. If you happen to enjoy the smell and look of old poetry books head to the back, crawl into one of the hidden couches and enjoy.  You will also find a wonderful collection of travel books, rare artbooks and a fun children’s section… Who said 20-somethings can’t enjoy reading Alice in Wonderland (have you heard Tim Burton’s movie?).

Getting There: A/C to High St. or, 2/3 to Court St. or, F to York St.

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