your new digs. your new hood.

I would like to highlight a new project built at 307 Atlantic Avenue, next to the Smith Street Condos.  The building is roughly 4-5 months away from completion, and will be marketed as studios, 1 bedroom, and 2 bedroom rentals.  The area will boast well over 1,000 available rentals.  Around the corner sit the ‘Avalon High-Rise’ and the ‘Brooklyner’, but 307 Atlantic’s superior location, and desirable size make it the most favorable of the three.  Approximately 27 units will make up the boutique-like residence, offering a private and distinctive living experience.  The proximity to multiple subway lines also makes these apartments even more compelling.  The Bergen F/G train stop on Smith Street is only 3 blocks away, as is the Hoyt/Schermerhorn A/C/G.  In addition, the 2/3 and 4/5 train stops are just a few more blocks on foot.  The surrounding area boasts a YMCA, NY Sports Club, UA Movie Theater, Trader Joe’s, and countless other shops and restaurants lining Smith Street, Court Street and Atlantic Avenue. While checking out the property, I decided to sample a local eatery close by, a French Bistro named Bar Tabac.

The atmosphere was reminiscent of Roger La Grenouille on Saint Michel rue, a once well known Parisian restaurant that I visited years ago.  The original tin ceiling, charming decor and ornate tile floors make the environment cozy and quaint.  The service was excellent, and the food was fairly solid.  I sampled the Crouque Monsier(toasted ham and cheese open face sandwich, sometimes with a fried egg on top), French Onion Soup, and was able to snag a bite of my buddy’s burger.  The main dishes where good, but I was honestly a bit disappointed with the soup as the broth lacked flavor.  Although the food wasn’t the most impressive in French dining, the overall experience was pleasurable.  I would rate Bar Tabac a B+, but caveat that with an A for atmosphere.

Bar Tabac — 128 Smith Str    (718)923-0918 — www.bartabacny.com