Cobble Hill is a true gem of a neighborhood in Brooklyn. Despite its petite footprint, it is rich in history, commerce, and charm thanks to its diverse architecture, vibrant business corridors lined with restaurants and boutiques, and quieter, tree-lined residential blocks. It’s a prime location for families seeking a more laid-back, neighborhood-y vibe without straying too far from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan or Downtown Brooklyn. It also offers easy access to other prime family neighborhoods–Brooklyn Heights to the north, Boerum Hill to the east, Carroll Gardens to the south, and the up-and-coming Columbia Street Waterfront District to the west.
Key facts about Cobble Hill
- Total population: 9,417
- Median age: 36
- Race demographics: 73% White, 10% Hispanic, 4% Black, 7% Asian
- Total households: 3,906
- Family households: 1,808 (46% of households)
- Median household income: $183,851
Kid-friendly institutions
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Cobble Hill Park | The heart of the neighborhood. It’s a beautiful gathering spot anytime of the year for families, with its classic sandbox, slide, and climbing “spider” on the west side.
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Blue & Yellow Playground | Named (charmingly) after its blue and yellow play structure, this Henry Street park has plenty of seating and space for kids to run around.
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Toy Park | For younger kids, this park is right next to the Blue and Yellow Park and has plenty of second hand toys (think ride-on-cars, walkers, water tables, etc) sourced from neighborhood families.
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The Secret Garden | Hidden on Degraw street between Clinton Street and Tompkins Place, this community garden is open to the public on Sundays to help with gardening. Kids can dig, rake, and explore.
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Cobble Hill Cinemas | You can’t miss this beloved old-school theater on Court Street. It’s small but shows most current releases — and kids love the “kid’s combo” (popcorn, drink, and fruit snacks).
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Trader Joe’s | Housed in a historic former bank, this Court Street Trader Joe’s adds another layer of local character. The impressive building sits on an important site from the Revolutionary War, and rumor has it, it’s haunted!
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Barnes & Noble | With an entire floor dedicated to kids and young readers, this location hosts weekly storytimes and is a wonderful place to explore books.
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PS 29 Playground | The schoolyard stays open on weekends for the community offering a nice corner for younger kids and lots of space to scooter, bike, and run wild.
Best drop-in indoor fun in Brooklyn by neighborhood here.
Kid-friendly restaurants
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Hibino | Home-cooked Japanese comfort food. High chairs, kids’ chopsticks, and a welcoming vibe for families.
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Poppy’s | On weekends, expect a crowd outside this beloved spot perfect for morning coffee and baked goodies.
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Fare and Folk | A quaint café on Henry Street, ideal for picking up a coffee and treat on the way to the park.
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Darna Falafel | A fuss-free kid’s menu and standout sandwiches for adults (don’t miss the catfish or skirt steak). Perfect for a Cobble Hill Park picnic.
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Daily Provisions | Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner — and their “chicken dinner” with 3 sides makes an easy weeknight meal that feels homecooked.
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Bareburger | An extensive burger menu with a solid kids’ section including vegan options.
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Cafe Luluc | Open at 9am on weekends, this is a go-to for family brunch with outdoor dining in the summer. Don’t miss the French toast!
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Talea | Brooklyn’s first female-owned brewery — with an upstairs event space perfect for parties and gatherings.
Our overview of kid-friendly restaurants in Brooklyn by neighborhood here.
Restaurants for a date night out
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The Long Island Bar | A neighborhood classic (dating back to the 1950s) known for its burger — reopened and buzzing again since 2014.
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Lillo Cucina Italiana | This hole-in-the-wall authentic Italian pasta spot is worth the inevitable line. Can’t wait? Grab takeout and picnic in the nearby sitting park.
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La Vara | Spanish tapas and wine make for a perfect night out!
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Sal Tang’s | For a casual, retro dining experience, try this buzzy newcomer featuring cantonese comfort food.
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June | A cozy natural wine bar with a backyard oasis in the warmer months.
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Congress Bar | A relaxed spot with drinks, snacks, and indoor-outdoor seating.
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Elsa | Stylish cocktails in a beautifully designed space.
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Big Tiny | Charming French food and wine in an intimate setting.
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Libertador | Argentinian steaks and a cozy vibe on a quieter block of Henry Street.
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El Cedro | This Lebanese taqueria is known for its delicious dishes served in a casual atmosphere.
Our overview of romantic restaurants in Brooklyn by neighborhood here.
What you should not miss in Cobble Hill
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Picnic at Cobble Hill Park | Be sure to follow the Cobble Hill Association for updates on events like the summer concert series or winter holiday caroling.
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Cobble Hill Historic District Tour | Enjoy a self-guided walking tour visiting the neighborhood’s historic buildings.
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Italian Ice from Court Pastry Shop | Cool down with a treat from this classic Sicilian bakery serving the neighborhood since the 1940’s.
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Spiced Hot Chocolate at The Chocolate Room | There is no better way to warm up in the colder season. There’s a kid-friendly non-spiced hot-chocolate option too.
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Live Music | Several restaurants in the neighborhood offer live music on a weekly basis, Bar Tabac on weeknights, Henry Public on weekends, and Clover Club during Sunday brunch.
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Art at Stumptown Coffee | Check out the rotating art exhibits inside an old firehouse.
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Sunset on Amity Street | One of the most magical views looking across the river all the way to New Jersey!
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Ten Ichi Mart | Find all the Japanese goodies kids love to eat like specialty mochi ice creams and onigiri rice-balls.
- Gifts and Souvenirs | Stop by Something Else and Picnic for Brooklyn-themed clothes, toys, and more.
Schools in Cobble Hill
- Public schools: PS 29 is the local zoned elementary school, The Boerum Hill School for International Studies middle school and high school
- Charter schools: Success Academy
- Private schools: Brooklyn Heights Montessori School
- Preschools: Kane Street Kids, Little Snowflakes Daycare, Brooklyn Preschool of Science, Open House, Pache Montessori, Pollitos Daycare
For more information about schools, download our school guides here.
Affording Cobble Hill:
- The median sale price for homes in Cobble Hill was $1.84 million in 2024.
This guide has been contributed by local Cobble Hill photographer and dad, Standa Merhout.
Updated: May 9, 2024. Photos: Standa Merhout.
