Brian Nagele
Williamsburg is one of Brooklyn’s most dynamic and exciting neighborhoods. It’s both historic and hip, with chefs from around the world arriving to make their mark.
You’ll find just about every type of food in Williamsburg, including pizza, pasta, burgers, and contemporary. All those choices can feel confusing at times, but don’t worry⸺I’m a local expert, and I’m here to help.
Here’s a look at my top recommendations, including options for every meal of the day and a variety of situations. Check out my list of the best restaurants in Williamsburg below!
Meadowsweet
149 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-384-0673
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Meadowsweet offers some of the freshest locally sourced food in the entire city because owners Polo and Stephanie grow many of the vegetables themselves on their farm in upstate NY.
Their seasonal menu rotates near-daily, featuring a variety of sandwiches and meat-and-veggie dishes. I’m always delighted to discover new combinations such as salmon with cabbage, chicken with kale, and more. They also serve egg dishes, toasts, and sandwiches for brunch.
Meadowsweet is found along Broadway between Driggs Avenue and Bedford Avenue in NYC. They’re next door to OTB, and down the block from Brooklyn Movie Car Rentals.
Lilia
567 Union Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-576-3095
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With their commitment to simplicity and fresh ingredients, dining at Lilia is like dining at a traditional bistro in Italy. Their menu features fish, pasta, chicken, and lamb. Some of my top recommendations for seafood fans include the Grilled Albacore Tuna and the Black Bass. If fish isn’t your fave, I recommend the Ricotta-Filled Ravioli or the Grilled Chicken Leg and Thigh.
You’ll also want to check out the attached Lilia Caffe. It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and cocktails. The Caffe is my go-to breakfast when I have friends visiting from out-of-town. We can grab some egg sandwiches or frittata and then head out to explore Brooklyn!
Lilia’s is located along Union Avenue near 10th Street. They’re just two blocks south of the McCarren Park Track.
Barano
26 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 347-987-4500
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Chef Albert DiMeglio welcomes you to Barano, one of South Williamsburg’s finest Italian restaurants. The seasonal menu focuses on foods prepared in their wood-burning oven and open-fire grill. They sell pizzas, pasta, New York strip steak, chicken parm, and more.
Barano is one of the best restaurants in Williamsburg for large groups. The restaurant has Brooklyn-style pizza and pasta party menus for eight or more guests. You can choose two pizzas, two pasta dishes, and three antipasti. When combined with their vast beer and cocktail menu, you have all the makings for a great night out with friends.
Barano’s is right off the Williamsburg Bridge along Broadway near Kent Avenue. It’s just one block west of the Cohen Children’s Northwell Health Center.
Lighthouse BK
145 Borinquen Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 347-789-7742
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Whenever I walk into Lighthouse, I instantly feel right at home. It’s a cozy, welcoming place with friendly staff and lots of regulars. They’re located at the corner of Keap and South 1st, next to the Crow & Chick restaurant.
The Lighthouse serves up fresh, healthy, and locally sourced foods such as grilled chicken bowls, ceviche, and roasted vegetables. Meals are served prix fixe, which means you get to choose options for several courses for a single price.
I love to go here for brunch, which runs from 12 pm to 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Their light, local fare is perfect for a lazy weekend. You can order individually or get dishes to share, such as their chicken shawarma.
Misi New York
329 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 347-566-3262
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Misi is the second restaurant owned and operated by Missy Robbins, recipient of the James Beard Foundation’s “Best Chef New York City” award in 2018. It’s at the corner of Kent Avenue and South 4th Street.
Missy is a world-renowned Italian chef, and her menu combines both traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine. The menu also features a variety of vegetarian dishes, such as roasted zucchini, grilled baby artichokes, and slow-roasted tomatoes.
They’re a great choice if you’re going on a date or looking to catch up with an old friend. The atmosphere is hip and bustling while remaining friendly and comfortable.
Fette Sau
354 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-963-3404
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You won’t find anything else quite like Fette Sau. They describe the place as one-part Central Texas and one-part New York Deli. The menu focuses on meats and barbeque, featuring brisket, pork, sausage, wings, and more.
Plus, their drink menu is something else! They have one of the most expansive whisky lists in the entire city, along with a robust selection of craft beers, classic cocktails, and bourbons.
When you’re in the mood for whisky, BBQ, and unpretentious dining, head over to Metropolitan Avenue, where it connects to North 4th Street. They’re open from noon until 10 pm every Wednesday through Saturday, from noon to 9 pm on Sundays, and Tuesdays from 4 pm until 10 pm.
Rabbithole Restaurant
352 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 718-782-0910
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Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a more casual setting, the Rabbithole is where to eat in Williamsburg. The rear of the restaurant and garden are a formal dining area, while the front is a cozier bar and café. They’re open for brunch on the weekends and for lunch and dinner during the week.
Try the Rabbithole Florentine, one of their signature dishes. It features poached eggs on wilted arugula with cheddar mornay sauce. I order it practically every time I go for brunch!
Another must-try are their pastries, scones, and muffins. They make everything fresh in their on-site bakery. The smell of their baked goods wafts out the front door and is familiar to everyone on Bedford Avenue between 3rd and 4th St.
Klein’s
97 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 718-215-7150
Klein’s is a friendly, unpretentious restaurant and bar. They serve dinner every evening and brunch on the weekend.
It’s found inside the Hoxton, a classic Brooklyn hotel located along Wythe Avenue between North 10th Street and North 9th Street. It’s between the East River State Park Playground and the McCarren Park. When you visit Klein’s, be sure to explore the hotel a bit, as it offers some fantastic views of NYC.
As you might expect from a restaurant in a hotel, the menu is designed for a broad appeal. They have pasta, fried chicken sandwiches, burgers, and other popular fares. It’s also a great spot for cocktails, such as their signature Passion Project, made from tequila, passion fruit, and cachaca.
Fandi Mata
74 Bayard St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Phone: 718-388-8877
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When you’re in the mood for a hip place with a decidedly Brooklyn feel, check out Fandi Mata. It combines contemporary industrial design with classic Mediterranean food. Some of my faves include the Grilled Branzino and the Lamb Burger.
Fandi Mata is located across Bayard Street across from McCarren Park between Lorimer Street and Leonard Street. They’re across the street from Northside Charter High School and McCarren Park.
They offer a variety of specials practically every day of the week, including $1 oysters on Wednesdays and $5 off all signature cocktails on Thursdays. They are open until 1 am most nights of the week, making the restaurant a great place to go for a late dinner or drinks.
Marlow & Sons
81 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 718-384-1441
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When you’re out and about in Brooklyn, and looking for a bite to eat, don’t forget about Marlow & Sons. They’re open every day from 8 am to 9 pm for grab-and-go and from 4 pm to 9 pm for aperitivo (a traditional Italian happy hour). Plus, they’re conveniently located on Broadway and Berry Street near the Bottleneck Gallery.
They offer a variety of fresh sandwiches for lunch, including roast beef and chicken cutlet. You can also get a variety of fun non-alcoholic beverages. They have Mexican Coke, Fever Tree Soda, and Natalie’s Juices. But take my advice – no matter what else you order, be sure to try one of their She Wolf Baguettes, a house specialty.
St. Anselm
355 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-384-5054
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St. Anselm is a cozy restaurant and wine bar that’s perfect for hanging with friends. Most of the dishes served here are cooked on the grill, including NY Strip Steak, Grilled Sardines, and Whole Trout.
They also serve some of my favorite desserts. I strongly suggest their Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae for all you ice cream fans. Their Rum Sticky Coffee Cake is another winner.
They’re found on Metropolitan Avenue before North 4th Street, next to Knitting Factor Brooklyn and Spuyten Duyvil.
Cozy Royale
434 Humboldt St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-734-2792
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When you’re looking for a chill, comfortable vibe, slide into a seat at the Cozy Royale. They encourage you to take your time, relax, and enjoy the fine food and drink. They specialize in turning overlooked cuts of meat into culinary cuisine, with entrees such as Beef Heart, Sticky Sausages, and Steak Tartare.
They also have a varied selection of cocktails, beer, and wine, from classics to more obscure offerings. I recommend the El Dorado 12 Year rum or the Duchess GB Pale Ale, one of my favorite draft beers.
You’ll find Cozy Royale between Cooper Park and Meeker Avenue, on Humboldt Street near Jackson Street. They’re just down the street from their sister restaurant, the Meat Hook.
Empellón
Multiple locations
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Empellón offers up dishes you won’t find anywhere else. Their seasonal menu combines contemporary New York cuisine with strong Mexican influences.
They have three locations throughout town. Their flagship option is located in Midtown, with Empellon Taqueria in the West Village, Empellon Al Pastor in the East Village, and a new restaurant in Waterline Square coming soon.
If you live in the area or are in town for more than a week, I recommend stopping by on multiple Tuesdays for their Taco Tuesday promotion, which offers up a new dish every time.
The Four Horsemen
295 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-599-4900
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You might recognize The Four Horsemen from the Netflix show Master of None – it’s where the main character takes all his first dates. In real life, it’s arguably even cooler. The restaurant has a contemporary, laid-back vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating.
The seasonal menu changes daily, but you’ll always find a variety of locally sourced seafood, vegetable, and meat dishes, including freshly baked bread.
The Four Horsemen is located on Grand Street between Graffiti Beach and About Glamour. They’re open from 5 pm until 10 pm every night of the week, and also from 11 am until 4 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
La Superior
295 Berry St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 718-388-5988
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La Superior expertly captures the flavor and culture of Mexican street food and authentic taquerias, which are Mexican restaurants that specialize in tacos. It was created by Felipe Mendez-Candelas, a Mexican chef who moved to NY and wanted to replicate the street food culture of his home country.
You’ll find a broad selection of Mexican food classics such as carne asada, enchiladas, and chilaquiles (touted as the number one hangover remedy in Mexico). But the real stars here are the tacos, available in over a dozen styles.
When you’re ready for tacos and more, head over to Berry Street, just a few blocks north of the Williamsburg Bridge and the Berry Park Playground. They’re open from 11 am until midnight on Sunday through Thursday, and Friday through Saturday from 11 am until 2 am.
Gertie
357 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-636-0902
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When you’re out-and-about in Brooklyn and looking to nosh, head over to Gertie. They’re a Jewish diner and bar with, as they like to say, “bagels, babka, and booze.” They have baked goods, deli sandwiches, salads, and seafood.
They’re a place I visit frequently, not just because the food is delicious but because they’re open seven days a week from 9 am until 5 pm. Breakfast and lunch are both served all day. Plus, they’re conveniently located at the corner of Grand Street and Marcy Avenue, just east of Williamsburg Cinemas.
Owner Nate Adler and the entire team support many neighborhood programs, including ReThink Food, City Harvest, and the Get Out the Vote Initiative.
The Meatball Shop
170 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 718-551-0520
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Owners Daniel Holzman and Michael Chernow were childhood friends who dreamed up the idea for The Meatball Shop back while working as delivery boys on the Upper East Side. It launched in 2010 and became an instant neighborhood favorite, known for meatballs and much more.
Aside from meatballs, they serve chicken parm, crispy calamari, heroes, and more. They also have family dining and a kids’ menu, making this the place to go with the whole gang.
They have four locations in NY and one in Boise Idaho. The Williamsburg spot is located on Bedford Avenue just a few blocks up from the Brooklyn Winery, between 7th and 8th streets.
Aurora BK
70 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 718-388-5100
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When you need a touch of nature, head over to Aurora Brooklyn, a quaint Italian eatery with a beautiful garden. It’s located across Wythe Avenue from the William Sheridan Playground and PS 084.
They offer lunch, brunch, and dinner. While everything is tasty, you’re sure to love their cheeses especially. The mozzarella di bufala and fior di latter cheeses are imported directly from Italy each day.
The atmosphere is cozy and warm. It’s popular among both locals and tourists. After your meal, some of the best views in the city are within a two-minute walk.
Pheasant
445 Graham Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-675-5588
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I love walking into Pheasant. It has a rustic look that harkens back to simpler times, with added touches of modern New York Style (and lots of plants).
The Mediterranean menu doesn’t disappoint. They have a medley of seafood, burgers, veggies, and wood-fired Italian dishes. One of my favorites is the Chicken Over Rice, made with cumin ginger sofrito.
They’re located along Graham Avenue near Richardson Street. The front doors are right across the street from the Graham Avenue/Richardson Street bus stop.
Llama Inn
50 Withers St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-387-3434
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The Llama Inn is one of my favorite Peruvian restaurants in NYC. They offer a variety of complex, traditional dishes, including Hiramasa Tiradito, Papas a la Huancaina, and Crispy Pig Tails.
Don’t miss the amazing drink menu. You’ll find quite a few unique cocktails such as the Llama Del Rey, Chimpin’ Ain’t Easy, and Atlas Shrubbed. Aside from the hilarious names, they’re also delicious concoctions made from fresh fruit and fine liquors.
They’re located just a few doors down from Hotel Le Jolie along Withers Street. You can easily get there from the Lorimer Street/Meeker Avenue bus stop.
YUJI RAMEN — OKONOMI
150 Ainslie St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 929-295-0480
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Okonomi, as the locals call it, is a small Japanese restaurant located on Ainslie Street near Lorimer Street, one block south of Suzume and a block north of Campbell & Co.
They offer the full gamut of traditional Japanese fare, including Oko Bento, Oko Donburi, and even Sake Cakes and bottles. I recommend the Breakfast Bento, one of my favorite ways to start the day. It’s packed with fish, vegetables, tsukemono, and tamagoyaki.
Note that, due to COVID restrictions, the restaurant frequently operates as an exclusively take-out place. They’re open from Sunday through Thursday from 10:30 am until 7 pm, and then Friday through Saturday from 10:30 to 9 pm.
Bamonte’s
32 Withers St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-384-8831
If you like TV shows about mobsters and cops, there’s a good chance you’ve seen Bamonte’s, as it’s featured in several episodes of The Sopranos as well as episodes of Blue Bloods, Homeland, and Kojak.
But the quality of the food is no Hollywood illusion. They serve huge portions of Old World Italian food. Some popular options include veal parm and lasagna.
Bamonte’s is found on Withers Street between Union Avenue and Lorimer Street. It’s around the corner from Reunion. If you get lost, you can ask just about anybody on the street for directions, as the restaurant is a famous local landmark.
Birds of a Feather
191 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-969-6800
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You and your friends should flock together to Birds of a Feather, one of the best Chinese restaurants in Williamsburg. They’ve crafted a menu based on traditional Sichuan cuisine but with modern and adventurous twists.
It’s a fun spot for a date because many dishes are suitable for two, such as the Braised Whole Fish in Chili Sauce and the Steamed Whole Fish with Asian Chili. I’m also quite partial to their Spicy and Sour Tofu Pudding.
They’re one block south of the Metropolitan Recreation Center in Brooklyn, on Grand Street between Driggs Avenue and Bedford Avenue.
Emmy Squared
364 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-360-4535
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Pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches are what’s on the menu at Emmy Squared. It’s a bit different from other pizza places because, instead of NY-style pies, they serve their pizzas Detroit-style, cooked in a deep dish with a layer of sauce on top.
The restaurant has a few locations around town, with their Brooklyn spot located at Grand Street and Marcy Avenue.
Are you hungry for pizza but not near the restaurant? Emmy Squared offers free virtual pizza classes. They’ll ship their classic pies to your door along with providing detailed online instructions.
Noods n’ Chill
170 S 3rd St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-388-7695
I love Thai food, and Noods n’ Chill serves up some of my favorite in NYC. Sure, you have to squeeze into the small seats at the corner, but the food more than makes up for any awkwardness.
You’ll find all types of Thai dishes here. Some of my favorites include the Thai Dry Noodle with Crab and Pork and the Boat Blood Noodle (a gross name, but a great dish!).
They’re at the corner of South 3rd Street and Driggs Avenue, just a block up from the Magic Cobra Tattoo Society.
Peter Luger Steak House
178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-387-7400
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The Peter Lugar Steak House has been in Brooklyn since 1807. After original owner Peter Lugar passed away, longtime customer Sol Forman bought the place at auction, managing to bring the restaurant to new heights.
It’s a classic steakhouse with an eye for quality. They only use USDA Prime, which represents less than 2% of beef cattle. Additionally, all dry aging is done on-site, allowing them to control the temperature and other factors with precision.
The original Brooklyn location is found across from Continental Army Plaza at the corner of Broadway and Driggs Avenue.
Sunday In Brooklyn
348 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 347-222-6722
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Everyone is sure to find something they like at Sunday in Brooklyn. This charming spot offers a menu filled with all-American favorites like Fried Chicken Sandwiches, Sunday Burgers, and Market Fish. Brunch is available from 10 am to 3:30 pm, while Dinner is served from 5 pm to 10 pm.
Sunday in Brooklyn is one of my top choices for desserts. Try their Seasonal Fruit Crumble, Match Soft Serve, and the cleverly-named Sunday Sundae. It’s made with matcha and chocolate soft serve with a cherry on top.
They’re just a few blocks east of the East River, and two blocks south of the Brooklyn Animal Resource Coalition, along Wythe Avenue and South 2nd Street.
The Commodore
366 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-218-7632
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Alright, maybe the menu items aren’t the healthiest in Brooklyn, but they’re near-impossible to resist. The Commodore combines Southern and Tropical cooking with dishes such as the Fried Chicken Plate, Hot Breast Sandwich, and the Cadillac Nachos.
The Commodore is just a few blocks west of Jaime Campiz Playground. It’s along Metropolitan Avenue at the intersection of Hope Street, on the same block at Golden Dragon Kitchen.
Inside, you’ll find comfy booths and a cozy, wood interior. Quick note: The entrance is hard to spot, even if you’re standing right in front of the place, so check addresses carefully when you’re near.
Final Thoughts
It’s easy to see why Williamsburg has a reputation for some of the best food in all of Brooklyn. They’ve drawn an eclectic collection of master chefs from around the world, serving up traditional and classic takes on Italian, Japanese, Chinese, and much more.
Looking for more than what we have listed here? Check out some of the incredible Cuban restaurants NYC has for you!These are my favorite Williamsburg restaurants, but I’m sure there are other greats I’ve missed. What are some of your suggestions? Hit me up in the comment section, and I’ll check it out!
Best Restaurants in Williamsburg NYC
- Meadowsweet
- Lilia
- Barano
- Lighthouse BK
- Misi New York
- Fette Sau
- Rabbithole Restaurant
- Klein’s
- Fandi Mata
- Marlow & Sons
- St. Anselm
- Cozy Royale
- The Four Horsemen
- La Superior
- Gertie
- The Meatball Shop
- Aurora BK
- Pheasant
- Llama Inn
- YUJI RAMEN — OKONOMI
- Bamonte’s
- Birds of a Feather
- Emmy Squared
- Noods n’ Chill
- Peter Luger Steak House
- Sunday In Brooklyn
- The Commodore
