Brooklyn's Progress
November 2004

Seven Brooklyn restaurants were christened “Brooklyn Classics” by the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce at a press conference preceding the 8th Annual Brooklyn Eats tasting festival at the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge on Oct. 18.   As Chamber Members, elected officials and fellow restaurateurs looked on, the eateries were honored for their longtime contributions to the Brooklyn economy and for participating in Brooklyn Eats for five or more years.  These new “Brooklyn Classics” include Akwaaba Café, Archives Restaurant, Aunt Suzie's, Brawta Caribbean Café, Junior's, Lundy Brothers, and Marco Polo Ristorante. 

Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce President Kenneth Adams said, “These seven restaurants have not only stood the test of time by becoming neighborhood favorites for many Brooklynites, but each of them also has demonstrated an incredible commitment to Brooklyn’s food industry by taking part in Brooklyn Eats for at least five years.  They are true ‘Brooklyn Classics’ and we thank them for their contributions to this great borough.”

Along with honoring this year’s "Brooklyn Classics," Chamber officials also announced the winners of the third annual Brooklyn Eats Scholarships.  Chamber President Kenneth Adams presented scholarships to three hospitality management students studying at the New York City College of Technology in Downtown Brooklyn.  Scholarship winners Ronney Williams, Latoya Mason and Shakia Hall then unveiled a new recipe they had developed especially for the event:  City Tech’s Chocolate Cherry Cake.

Brooklyn Eats, which has become one of New York City’s most anticipated food events, this year featured more than 60 restaurants along with gourmet caterers, micro-brews and wines and Brooklyn food specialties such as Steve’s Mom rugelach and Tower Isle beef patties.  This year’s event attracted more than 800 guests.  Brooklyn Eats serves as the premier annual marketing opportunity for restaurants in Brooklyn’s rapidly growing, increasingly high-profile restaurant scene.

Major funding for Brooklyn Eats was provided by City Council Speaker Gifford Miller and the Brooklyn delegation of the New York City Council.  Additional sponsors include Independence Community Bank.