boxed out: Smorgasburg hits DUMBO

For the last couple of Sundays, the ever-expanding empire of Brooklyn Flea has graced the Tobacco Warehouse in DUMBO. Though the food market is open-air, the space seems much less scorching than its parking-lot-squatting older sibling in Williamsburg. This is likely due to the surrounding parkland and the 20' high brick enclosure, the remaining shell of a 19th-Century waterfront warehouse. Furthermore, the adjacent parcel of Brooklyn Bridge Park--wedged between the warehouse, the river and Jane's Carousel--proved to be a much more inviting lunch spot than the pavement-bound picnic tables in Williamsburg.

Alas, Smorgasburg won't stay here forever, as it looks like St. Ann's Warehouse will soon be inhabiting Tobacco Warehouse. H3 Architects have revealed a preliminary design for the theater company, with plans to preserve the old brick facade with the new space inserted within. In response to neighborhood objections over the private development of city-owned parkland, the project will make up for the lost area with the provision for additional green space under the bridge.

In the meantime, take advantage of the attraction while it lasts. Every Sunday from now through November 18, 75-some-odd food vendors will set up shop from 11am-6pm. To whet your appetite, take a look at some of the offerings from last weekend...

The Fat Beagle

3 Pulled Pork Johnny Cakes with (L-R): 1) braised apples, crème fraîche and maple reduction; 2) shaved summer corn, roasted jalapeño creme and pickled okra; and 3) collard greens and pimiento cheese