Summary
Once heavily industrial and populated mostly by Hassidic Jews, first-generation Italians, and Puerto Rican immigrants, Williamsburg became the neighborhood of artists and recent college graduates in the early 1990s. Thanks to their influence, the neighborhood has transformed into one of the most popular in Brooklyn, boasting excellent restaurants, bars, and shopping. Industrial lofts have been revamped into stunning apartments, and towering condominiums have emerged, reshaping Williamsburg from the new East Village to the new SoHo.
Eat in Williamsburg
In Williamsburg, you will discover not just one or two but three of Brooklyn’s best hamburgers. Furthermore, locavore success stories like Egg contribute to some of the finest brunches Brooklyn has to offer. Don’t forget to explore lists of Williamsburg’s best restaurants and read reviews. However, be prepared for long wait times, as most restaurants in Williamsburg do not accept reservations.
How to Get to Williamsburg
- The easiest way to reach Williamsburg from Manhattan is to take the L Train to Bedford Avenue; you will find yourself right in the heart of the action.
- If you are traveling from Queens or South Brooklyn, the G Train to Metropolitan Avenue will get you to Bedford Avenue within a few blocks.
- For those who prefer walking or cycling, consider the Williamsburg Bridge or the East River Ferry, which stops at North 6th Street and South 11th Street in Williamsburg. The North 6th Street stop is recommended for a better feel of the neighborhood.
The Williamsburg Bridge
Not only does the Williamsburg Bridge provide a convenient route to and from Williamsburg from Manhattan’s Lower East Side, but the views from the center of the bridge are also breathtaking. You can easily spend a day exploring the restaurants and bars situated directly beneath the bridge. Notably, Peter Luger is among the oldest steakhouses in Brooklyn, while Dressler proudly holds the distinction of being the only Michelin-starred restaurant in the neighborhood.
Drinking in Williamsburg
Williamsburg is home to an extensive array of bars, surpassing even its restaurants. To cater to different preferences, here is a categorically organized list of some of the best spots:
- For exquisite cocktails, visit Hotel Delmano.
- Oyster lovers should head to Maison Premiere.
- For the best dive bar experience: The Levee.
- Best Biergarten: Radegast Beer Hall or Brooklyn Brewery
- For a delightful wine experience, consider Woodhul Wine Bar.
The Waterfront and The Brooklyn Flea
- If you’re in Williamsburg on the weekend, make sure to visit The Brooklyn Flea on Sundays at the Williamsburg waterfront.
- The Northside Piers complex features benches for lounging and serves as the pick-up point for the East River Ferry.
- On Saturdays, you can explore Williamsburg’s Food Market, Smorgasburg, while Sundays are reserved for the Flea market. This is an exceptional location for people-watching, attracting visitors from across Brooklyn.
Williamsburg Shopping
Williamsburg boasts some of Brooklyn’s finest vintage shops and clothing boutiques. Take a leisurely stroll down Bedford Avenue or check out these renowned shops for a unique shopping experience.
Free Movies in McCarren Park
During the summer months, enjoy free movie screenings held in McCarren Park, among other complimentary activities available in Williamsburg.
Music and Venues
Williamsburg offers a wide array of music venues, catering to varying audience sizes. In the summer, Central Park’s Summerstage features free outdoor concerts in the East River Park.
Hotels
- The Residences – luxurious and upscale
- Hotel Williamsburg – charming Bed and Breakfast
- Hotel Le Jolie – reliable and budget-friendly
- Zip112 – a cozy hostel
Edited by Alison Lowenstein
