The Best of Bed-Stuy: Chef Justin Bazdarich’s Neighborhood Favorites

After opening up his second location for his restaurant  Speedy Romeo , French Culinary Institute graduate Chef Justin Bazdarich opened Oxomoco —a wood-fired Mexican restaurant. When Chef Bazdarich is not busy opening up great new places to eat, he has plenty of go-to spots for food and drink that he recommends. Where to Eat Explore Bed-Stuy’s best as Bazdarich shows us all of the neighborhood’s culinary gems. Fancy Nancy This fun brunch spot  is one of Bazdarich’s favorites. Their menu includes rye panckaes listed as a choice for a starter and deviled eggs under the “hors d’oeuvres” section. Hart’s For weekday and weekend nights, Hart’s menu is filled with tasty dinner options such as a grass-fed lamb burger, pork milanese, or for a sweeter option, the olive oil cake. Roman’s Bazdarich recommends Roman’s as his “favorite Italian spot with a full farm-to-table menu that changes daily and an awesome SaturdaySunday brunch.” Offering pasta dishes as well as grass-fed beef, Roman’s prides itself on its partnership with local farmers. Clementine Cafe & Bakery For “great vegan baked goods and all-day food,” Bazdarich recommends  Clementine Cafe & Bakery . Their breakfast and lunch menus include an assortment of vegan and gluten-free foods such as sandwiches and wraps, along with salads and quinoa bowls. Where to Drink Chef Bazdarich rounds up his go-to spots whether it’s for coffee or a cocktail. Bedford Hill Coffee Bar Before heading off to the restaurants, Bazdarich stops at this coffee bar each morning. For hot espresso, milk options include oat milk and almond milk. In addition to the standard cold brew, the menu offers a Kombucha bar. Bar Bolinas One of Bazdarich’s favorite neighborhood spots to get drinks and a bite has everything from cocktails to cider. What to do Besides taking his son to Fort Greene Park and Herbert Von King Park, Bazdarich said there are some great resources that make everything easier for new parents. Moozika! Bazdarich suggests Moozika! as an interactive music class for kids. Children ages newborn to five with their adults are welcome to join in the goal of learning music. Find your new home in Bed-Stuy today.