6. It’s a restaurant by and for Greenpointers, with a design that leans into the history of the neighborhood.

As this once-industrial neighborhood has evolved, the space at 132 Franklin Street has lived quite a few lives. Before it became a restaurant, it was a working laundromat for decades. In the 1940s, it was Pentecostal church. In 2021, the Fulgurances team intentionally left the “Laundry” sign on the window.

Finch wanted to preserve as much of the space’s historic character as possible, including the sign. Since much of the original paint had flaked off with time, they hired an artist to bring it back to life. “We thought the original sign was gold leaf, so we hired a painter who specializes in gold leaf,” Kevin says. “Then he’s like, ‘Actually, this is just paint.’”

Now, repainted with actual gold, the sign shines brighter than ever. The team added a few other thoughtful adjustments. There’s a small bar at the front for three or four people that faces out onto Franklin Street — ideal for an aperitif and some people-watching while waiting for your table.

“We’re trying to take what the space already has, which is gorgeous lighting, brick walls, and tin ceilings,” Lex says. “We’re really just leaning into it and being new stewards of the space.”

In keeping with the local vibes, everything from the upholstery to the woodwork in the new space was made by Greenpoint residents. Ceramicist Jordon Colón was responsible for all the plates; Jeva Design Studio was behind the plasterwork; and Brian Welch was responsible for the gorgeous walnut tabletops, bar, and shelving. Look closely and you’ll note that the two-top tables neatly slot into one another when you push them together, forming a perfect whole.

“We know what this place did well and what it represents and all the work that went into it,” Lex says. “We’re able to highlight the things we like, keep and what was working, then be able to move things around and add little bits of character and charm to bring a different warmth.”

Arthur is open Tuesday through Saturday starting at 5 p.m.

Diana Hubbell is a senior associate editor at Saveur as well as a James Beard Award-winning food and travel journalist whose work has appeared in The Washington Post, The Guardian, Atlas Obscura, VICE, Eater, Condé Nast Traveler, Esquire, WIRED, and Travel + Leisure, among other places. Previously based in Berlin and Bangkok, she currently lives in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Follow her on Instagram. Follow Resy, too.