Why Come Here? Neighborhood New American spot with Southern twists & good cocktails
The Heyward falls into a category I like to call Neighborhood New American. Every neighborhood needs a few. They offer a good vibe and nice variety of tasty dishes with just enough interesting twists to keep both foodies and their friends satisfied. Yet it’s not quite the type of place that people will travel across boroughs to eat there so you can still comfortably snag a table on a Friday or Saturday night. In a neighborhood like Williamsburg where going out with no reservation on a weekend means can lead to knocking on more doors than a Jehova’s Witness, it’s a very welcome addition.
Part of being a neighborhood spot is being a good place to hang out. The tables at The Heyward are well spaced and divided into different section by the bar and L-shape of the restaurant. The vibe is relaxed with friendly, attentive service.
The other part is of course the food and the focus here is on Lowcountry (Coastal Caronlias) cooking. Expect to see things like a stocked raw bar, shrimp & grits, sausage and hash. It’s all divided into a small number nice selection of appetizers, salads and meats. There’s something for everyone, without it all being too overwhelming and everything we tried was solid. Perfect people pleaser place (trying saying that 5 times fast). They have a good cocktail and wine selection too. Here’s what we ate:
Shrimp & Grits 
This is the “house specialty” a take on the Southern classic adding chorizo and shishito peppers. It’s quite tasty, especially the cheesy grits drenched in shrimp broth.
Spicy Glazed Octopus I have trouble not ordering octopus when it’s on the menu. Making it spicy and adding andouille sausage pretty much sealed the deal. It could have been a touch firmer, but overall was a very pleasing starter.
Maple Braised Short Rib 
I didn’t get a ton of the maple flavor but no matter, this was a tasty hunk of rib. The parsnip puree and hominy add a nice bitter-sweet flavor.
Hudson Valley Duck Breast The mix of savory duck with sweet candied tart bacon, cherry coulis and earthy farro fire on your palate on all levels. Star of the night in my book.
Right Amount for 2? 1-2 apps, 2 entrees
The Heyward
258 Wythe Street (N 3rd & Metropolitan)
Brooklyn, NY
