Yellowbelly Opens In Ditmas Park After Three-Year Wait

DITMAS PARK, BROOKLYN — Yellowbelly has finally opened after three long years of waiting and Patch has the photos to prove it.

The mysterious and very-blue restaurant at 1616 Cortelyou Road opened its doors to the public on March 19, three years after owners first announced the neighborhood would get a new cafe.

The Yellowbelly staff offered free samples of naan tacos — on made-to-order naan — and rice bowls to incredulous customers who hesitantly walked through glass doors that promise Beer, Taco and Fresh Naan Bread.

“It’s delicious,” said Elaine Cashin, a Ditmas Park resident who opted for the Amish Chicken Tikka Masala bowl. “Absolutely, worth the wait.”

Amish Chicken Tikka Masala bowl

Since the restaurant is still wrapping up a few rough edges — such as an unpacked box that stands next to the coolers — the staff will offer free samples to customers until the soft open tentatively slated for Friday, said the manager.

At that point, Yellowbelly hopes also to be serving up to 20 varieties of beer and wine on tap, according to the restaurant website.

Eventually the levers on the yellow wall will provide local and imported beers and wine to Yellowbelly patrons.

Until Friday, Ditmas Park residents are welcome to stop by and pick up a generous bowl of rice, dal and eggplant, or a naan taco topped with mint sauce and avocado.

Ditmas Park has been waiting for this historic day since Cafe Madeline's owners announced in February 2015 that they would develop a new eatery across the street.

Photos by Kathleen Culliton