Pop-Up Porridge Shop Opens In—You Guessed It—Park Slope

Scott Lynch

Published Nov 12, 2013

Modified Nov 12, 2013

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Scott Lynch

Published Nov 12, 2013

Modified Nov 12, 2013

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Brooklyn Porridge, which just opened in the Louie G spot on Union Street, is a quintessential Park Slope eatery. All they serve is porridge: oatmeal, amaranth, and grits; and though it might seem like baby food, the grown up toppings mean adults might not feel embarrassed eating there.

Everything, from the porridge itself to the menu's many add-ins, is organic, gluten-free, allergen-free, non-GMO and antibiotic-free. Co-founders Emily Hannon and Karyn Seltzer only use vendors and suppliers that are socially and environmentally conscious (Bob's Red Mill, for instance, plus Think Coffee and Brooklyn Cured). And the level of earnestness they bring to the operation is profoundly Park Slopian. "A rock through the ages; a common bond connecting all of us. Porridge is timeless, ancient and modern" says Hannon. "Porridge is for everyone. Porridge is love.”

Ah, yes: love. Who doesn't want a big bowl of THAT?! And so I went to Brooklyn Porridge on Sunday morning, downed two bowls of the stuff, one savory, the other sweet. The amaranth was nicely nutty, maybe a bit gloppy, but it worked well with my toppings of maple bourbon ham, sharp cheddar, and grilled portobello. Plus, it's a "protein powerhouse" that lowered my blood pressure and increased my metabolism, according to a sign. My bowl of oats—in addition to reducing cholesterol and boosting my immune system—were chewy and comforting, topped with fresh strawberries, bananas, and not quite enough Vermont maple syrup. A solid choice.

The Brooklyn Porridge space is utilitarian, prettied up by the hand-chalked menu that covers much of the wall, plus listings of health benefits, as well as inspirational quotes about porridge. What's pleasant is that they've uncovered the big front windows, and in the morning the sun streams in. Safe indie music plays from the stereo, Hannon and Seltzer couldn't be more friendly, and although seating's limited to just a few stools by the window, this is more of quick-bite, to-go place anyway.

Get it while it's hot; Uncle Louie G's will return in the late spring to sling ices.

Brooklyn Porridge Co. is located on Union Street right near 5th Street, and is open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., weekends from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Brooklyn Porridge Menu

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