Since we get a little psycho obsessive about following Brooklyn food and drink openings here at Brooklyn Based, I was surprised last week to stumble upon an already-open spot that I hadn’t heard of or read a thing about yet.
Primrose Cafe debuted in the basement of a Clinton Hill brownstone earlier this spring. It’s the only food establishment along an otherwise quiet stretch of Greene Ave., although it’s only a block from the Brooklyn Flea. You could easily walk by without noticing the cafe, but inside it’s a surprisingly spacious room lined with hardwood floors and vintage furniture like repurposed school desks.
The coffee is serious, with Justin Schulz, formerly of Roberta’s, manning the barista station and pouring Dallis Bros. espresso, along with cold-brewed iced tea and freshly-made hibiscus soda. There are also treats like pistachio madelines and chocolate brioches from Williamsburg’s CeCi Cela Patisserie. However, the most exciting part about Primrose, food-wise, is the inventive sandwich menu, with smallish but flavorful options like the one seen above: smoked duck pastrami with arugula, fig preserves and daffinois–a super-creamy, Brie-like French cheese.
And considering the ample room for working, free wifi and small outdoor tables to boot, I’ll go ahead and call it the neighborhood’s best coffice, especially now that nearby Tillie’s has closed its doors. Plus, board games like Battleship and Uno are on hand for work breaks.
In summation: pastries, fancy cheese, high-quality coffee, free wifi and board games. What’s not to like? Throw in a beer bar and we might never have to go anywhere else.
