Rocky's Pizza, a Slice of the '70s

Rocky's Pizza in Kensington, Brooklyn, doesn't rank as classic New York. But it's an interesting slice of specific Gotham history. It was founded in 1979, nearly 35 years ago. And in case you haven't guessed, it was named after a certain popular movie of the time. See the poster below. That's the original item. Posters for other "Rocky" films in the franchise hang elsewhere in the pizzeria. 

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Christmas in Kensington

This rather elaborate display of lit up angels and trees lines the borders of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Kensington. It's quite a sight at night.

A Good Sign: PItta Funeral Home

The Pitta Funeral Home is on McDonald Avenue in the Kensington section on Brooklyn. They are to be applauded not only for their jazzy two-font main signage, but the style with which the print their address on the front, glass, double doors. Pitta was founded in 1951. Funny story about the place can be read here.

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Golden Farm Has What You Need

The Brooklyn neighborhood of Kensington is an interesting mix of Russian, Polish, Jewish, Hispanic and other entities. Plus some health-nut yuppies. And the sprawling Golden Farm grocery is here to serve them all, as the enormous awning attests. Inside, the shelves are packed with an interesting array of  goods, including locally made blintzes (locally as in just down the street), various odd Polish meat products made at meat plants in Brooklyn and well beyond, an enormous selection of fruits and vegetables and about a hundred varieties of tea, few of which I recognized.

Korner Pizza of Kensington

Korner Pizza has been on Church Avenue of the Kensington Neighborhood of Brooklyn since 1966. Despite the relatively new plastic awning, which is unfortunate, the place has a charming appearance to my eyes. The glass bricks are lovely. Inside are several of the curved orange booths that once were so common in pizzerias. And the two stone tables outside are a unique touch, allowing for al fresco dining. I assume from the traditional three-legged symbol on the wall (far below), the founding family is Sicilian. The owner, according to records, is Tony Imburgia.

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The Kensington Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library is still for sale for just under $3 million. Massey-Knakal encourages would-be bidders that "Due to the close proximity of public transportation the library sees a significant amount of foot traffic on a daily basis. The property is perfect for an investor looking for a strong income producing asset in a well located safe neighborhood."

410 Ditmas Avenue, the branch's address, is on the block because the Brooklyn Public Library is building a new Kensington library at 4207 18th Avenue. It will be the first “Green” BPL library building.