I’ve been looking into neighborhoods in New York City that are a little off the usual tourist path, and I discovered some really interesting facts about Sheepshead Bay in Brooklyn. While other areas might get more attention, this waterfront spot has a unique history connected to fishing, horse racing, and a special kind of seafood and roast beef. It also has some surprising cultural layers and famous former residents that make it a fascinating place to learn about.
A Name from the Sea
The neighborhood’s name comes from a specific type of fish: the sheepshead. These saltwater fish, known for their teeth that look a bit like a sheep’s, used to be very common in the bay’s waters. Sadly, their numbers went down a lot by the late 1800s. Even though the fish aren’t as common here now, the name stuck, and a hotel that opened way back in 1844 was even called the Sheepshead Bay Hotel. This area has been a special place for fishing since before colonial times.
Echoes of the Racetrack
Imagine a time when Sheepshead Bay was a major spot for horse racing! The Sheepshead Bay Race Track opened in 1880 and was quite the place to be. It even had big names like William Kissam Vanderbilt involved. People could watch exciting races on dirt and turf courses. It was here that the Coney Island Jockey Club opened the first turf course in the U.S. in 1886. However, a law in 1908 that banned racetrack betting started to lower its popularity. Competition from other tracks also played a role, and the track was eventually torn down starting in 1919.
The Story of Lundy’s
Lundy’s Restaurant was a true icon in Sheepshead Bay, opening in 1926. The Lundy family was deeply connected to Brooklyn’s fish world. Starting with a pushcart, Irving Lundy eventually opened seafood restaurants, with his most famous one on Emmons Avenue. By 1935, Emmons Avenue was even called a “modern Venice” because of its waterfront buildings. The restaurant was huge, able to seat thousands, and was known for classics like raw clams, chowder, lobster, and seafood platters. It’s interesting to note that the restaurant had a large African American staff, which was unusual for the time and place. Lundy’s business grew to own many waterfront properties, but there were challenges along the way, including strikes, robberies, and eventually the restaurant closing in 1979. There have been attempts to bring it back, and the original building is still there today, now occupied by Momo Hibachi Steak House & Bar.
Where to Find Great Roast Beef
While the heyday of its seafood restaurants might be past, Sheepshead Bay still shines when it comes to roast beef. You must check out Roll-n-Roaster, a classic on Emmons Avenue. For over 50 years, they’ve been serving their famous roast beef sandwiches, with or without gravy and cheese. The place feels like a step back in time, with old chandeliers and a big orange and green menu. They also offer corn fritters which are a big hit. Over on Avenue U, there’s Brennan and Carr, which has been around since 1938. It’s known for its roast beef sandwiches, still affordable, and has kept its historic wooden interior. They’ve even been featured on TV shows like “Man Vs. Food.”
A Hub of Eastern European Culture
Many people think of Brighton Beach as the main center for Eastern European culture in NYC, but Sheepshead Bay is also home to a significant population. Many families came here after the Holocaust and during the later years of the Soviet Union, especially starting in the 1970s. People from Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan found reasonable rents and an existing community here. This cultural heritage is still very much alive. You can find places like Baku Palace serving Azerbaijani cuisine, NetCost Market with a wide selection of Eastern European goods, and Nargis Cafe offering Uzbek specialties. For Russian food, Vanka Cafe is popular, and you can also find Georgian restaurants like Pirosmani and Apani.
Madison A Historic Enclave
Within Sheepshead Bay lies Madison, a quiet residential area south of Midwood. It’s known for its tree-lined streets and beautiful historic homes, many of which are quite expensive today. This part of Brooklyn began developing later, starting around 1877. A truly remarkable aspect of Madison is the Wyckoff-Bennett-Mont Homestead. This home dates all the way back to 1766 and played a role during the Revolutionary War. Many of its original features, like the woodwork and country kitchen, are still there. When I’m planning family trips, I always look for places with history, and this homestead sounds fascinating, especially for older kids like Sofia.
The City’s Only Public Holocaust Memorial Park
Sheepshead Bay is home to a very important landmark: the Holocaust Memorial Park, which is the only public memorial of its kind in New York City. This park, designated in 1985 and dedicated in 1997, honors the many Jewish immigrants and survivors who settled in the area. The memorial itself is a striking 14-and-a-half-foot tower made of granite and steel, with an “Eternal Flame” at the top and the word “Remember.” Surrounding the tower are granite slabs detailing the history of the Holocaust and over 200 granite markers inscribed with names of concentration camps, crucial events, and significant figures. It’s a powerful place for reflection and remembrance, emphasizing the importance of learning from the past.
A Growing Chinatown
In the Homecrest section of Sheepshead Bay, you’ll find one of Brooklyn’s significant Chinatowns, concentrated along Avenue U. This area is a vibrant and growing Chinese community, with many residents having moved from other parts of Brooklyn. Between 1990 and 2000, the Chinese population in this area grew substantially. Most of the community here speaks Cantonese. Along Avenue U, you can find numerous restaurants offering traditional Cantonese dishes. Golden Z, Wing Hing Seafood Restaurant, and Season Restaurant are good places to try classic Cantonese cooking, including dim sum. There are also great bakeries, like Good Family Bakery, offering dim sum options and drinks.
Famous Faces from Sheepshead Bay
It might surprise you to know that Sheepshead Bay has been home to some very well-known figures. Larry David, the comedian behind “Seinfeld” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” was born and raised here. Judge Judy, whose real name is Judith Sheindlin, also grew up in the neighborhood. The legendary football coach Vince Lombardi, who led the Green Bay Packers to multiple championships, spent his childhood here. Even the famous jazz drummer and bandleader Buddy Rich started his musical journey in Sheepshead Bay. It’s quite remarkable to think of the diverse talents that have emerged from this area.
Maritime Traditions Live On
Despite changes over the years, Sheepshead Bay still holds onto its maritime heritage. The area is known for having some of Brooklyn’s largest bait and tackle shops, like Bernie’s and Stella Maris Bait & Tackle, which have been serving anglers for decades. These shops offer a huge selection of gear for fishing enthusiasts. You can also still head out on the water for fishing excursions. Boats like the Sea Queen VII, Marilyn Jean Fishing, Capt. Dave Fishing, and others offer half-day trips, night excursions, and even private charters. For families interested in a hands-on experience, these fishing trips can be a lot of fun for all ages, though you might want to check suitability for very young children like Emma.
