There’s something magical about reconnecting with an old friend over incredible food. When a video of someone enjoying dinner at Strange Delight in Fort Greene, Brooklyn (my old stomping grounds) popped up on our feeds, I immediately texted Karima: “Let’s GO.” New Orleans cuisine holds a special place in my heart, and I wasn’t about to miss comparing this Brooklyn spot to the real deal. Spoiler alert: it lives up to the hype!
Finding My Way Back to Fort Greene for Epic NOLA Flavors
Karima and I have been friends since college—former suitemates who now, as busy adults, rarely find time to connect. I’ve made a conscious effort this year to prioritize the people who matter most in my life, and what better way than over some mouth-watering New Orleans-inspired cuisine?
The barbecue shrimp in that Instagram reel sealed the deal. Karima made the reservation, and we set a date at Strange Delight (63 Lafayette Avenue, near South Elliott Place). The evening arrived with pouring rain, and despite my familiarity with Brooklyn, I still managed to get a bit soaked finding the entrance. Some things never change!
Related: Travel Guide: Five Days in New Orleans – Eat, Play, Sleep, Repeat
A Cozy Ambiance Perfect for Heartfelt Conversations
Walking into Strange Delight feels like discovering a well-kept secret. The space strikes the perfect balance—contemporary yet inviting, with a trendy but unpretentious vibe. The dining room has a lounge-like atmosphere that works beautifully for intimate conversations, while the bar area comfortably accommodates smaller parties.
The restaurant wasn’t obnoxiously loud (a rarity in NYC dining), allowing Karima and me to have an actual conversation without shouting across the table. The crowd was stylish but relaxed—exactly what you want for a genuine catch-up session.
Bold New Orleans Flavors That Transport You South.
Being the planner I am, I hunted down the menu beforehand (no easy task since their online presence is minimal). Both of us like to strategize our ordering, though we still asked our server for recommendations.
We shared appetizers, which turned out to be the stars of the evening:
- Chargrilled oysters: Perfectly cooked with a smoky depth
- BBQ shrimp: The SAUCE. Oh my goodness. We couldn’t stop dipping our bread into it. I’m literally drooling thinking about it now.
For our entrées, we split our orders—a shrimp loaf and an oyster loaf. These aren’t your typical po’boys; Strange Delight’s version features incredibly soft bread that elevates the sandwich to something special. Trading halves let us experience both variations, and neither disappointed.
Cocktails That Soften Life’s Surprises
Over our first round of drinks—a Vieux Carré for me and a dirty martini for Karima—my friend dropped some heavy news: she’s moving from New York to North Carolina. Talk about needing a stiff drink at the right moment! The Vieux Carré (a classic New Orleans cocktail) helped soften the blow with its complex, warming flavors.
The cocktail menu offers creative takes on NOLA classics along with familiar favorites, making it perfect for both adventurous sippers and those who know exactly what they like.
Service That Enhances the Experience
Our server brought warmth and humor to the evening, striking that perfect balance between attentiveness and giving us space to catch up. When he brought a complimentary piece of their bread pudding to our table, we were skeptical about having room for dessert.
Don’t judge this bread pudding by its appearance! Made with the same milk bread used in their sandwiches, but transformed with cinnamon, orange zest, and a custard infused with Sazerac and rye (New Orleans cocktail staples), it was the perfect finale—warm and hitting just the right sweetness note.
When to Visit Strange Delight
This spot works beautifully for various occasions:
- Girl’s night out when you actually want to hear each other talk
- Pre-show dinner before events at Barclays Center or BAM
- Date night when you want impressive food without pretension
- Solo dining at the bar when you need to treat yourself
For luxury dining enthusiasts who appreciate culinary adventures without the stuffiness, Strange Delight delivers a uniquely Brooklyn take on New Orleans cuisine.
The Verdict: A Hidden Gem for NYC Food Lovers
Strange Delight Brooklyn combines the best elements of a girls’ night out in NYC—exceptional food, creative cocktails, and an atmosphere that encourages meaningful conversation. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why dining out in this city can be so special when you find the right spot.
Looking for a unique restaurant for your next girls’ night out in NYC? Strange Delight should top your list. If you visit, order those BBQ shrimp and let me know if you also end up sopping up every last drop of that sauce!
Have you discovered any hidden culinary gems in NYC lately? Drop your recommendations in the comments—I’m always looking for the next unforgettable dining experience!