Bordered by a ConEdison substation, the Brooklyn Navy Yard, and the BQE, Vinegar Hill is a sleepy residential hamlet surrounded by imposing urban infrastructure. The combination of its cobblestone streets, wood frame houses, and lack of commercial activity gives the place a distinct small-town vibe. And by anyone’s standards, the neighborhood is tiny — the 2012 U.S. Census listed less than 600 residents! Given its size and geographic isolation, it’s no wonder Vinegar Hill has flown under the real estate radar for so long. But with its rustic appeal and proximity to the booming Dumbo, Vinegar Hill may well be one of New York City’s next hottest neighborhoods. The lack of conveniences (read: no grocery stores and long walks to the subway), however, are still a deterrent for many potential residents and keep the neighborhood small and quiet.
The Mood
Without much street traffic, Vinegar Hill has a quiet, tucked-away feel. Residents enjoy the small-town vibe and can often be found at local cafes and restaurants.
Heart of the Neighborhood
Commandant’s House at the Brooklyn Navy Yard is the defining feature of the neighborhood and an architectural gem.
Neighborhood Quirk
Vinegar Hill's quirk is self-evident in its streetscapes, juxtaposing gritty industrial warehouses with rows of charming clapboard homes.
Best Perk
Nothing beats Vinegar Hill's off-the-radar appeal, encapsulating Brooklyn's artistic, industrial zeitgeist, but without hordes of hipsters.
Biggest Downside
Relatively isolated, Vinegar Hill lacks proximity to amenities like transportation, grocery stores, and schools.
