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33 Must-Try Restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC for 2024

Published on Dec 12th 2024
restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC

There are so many amazing restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC. They add to this special community's ambiance and help make it a popular destination for tourists and NYC locals alike. Choosing a favorite is difficult, but many are worth trying and can accommodate everything from a casual lunch to a five-star affair. Whether you’re searching for Williamsburg restaurants' rooftop experiences or warm and cozy restaurants near Williamsburg, Brooklyn, to bring the family to, options are plentiful. 

What is the most popular street in Williamsburg for dining? What is Williamsburg known for in NYC besides restaurants? We’ll answer these questions and more as we explore some of the best restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, and all that is special about this creative neighborhood. 

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Best Restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC

1. K’Far

K'Far Restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC
K'Far Brooklyn (via K'Far)

Israeli café culture makes its way to the restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, via K’Far. Here, you will enjoy all-day dining and a wide assortment of fresh pastries, unique sandwiches and Middle-Eastern-influenced dishes. The Jerusalem bagel sandwich or the flavorful shakshuka are popular picks. 

The atmosphere is welcoming, and the service is fast and friendly, making this a fun place to eat in Williamsburg for families or a casual business lunch. The restaurant is close to Williamsburg’s Brooklyn street art, one of the most unique spots for art enthusiasts and the best places to take pictures in NYC, so stop in during your day of art, culture and fun. 

2. Kru

Kru is a must-visit, fine-dining restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, known for its innovative Thai cuisine. This Michelin-star establishment is recognized as one of the best Midtown restaurants in NYC, serving elevated, shareable dishes that celebrate international flavor. 

The presentation of each dish receives rave reviews. Popular items include their signature crab curry or fresh charred eggplant, offering a memorable occasion dining experience in Williamsburg. The chic, five-star ambiance makes it ideal for a date night or business dinner. 

3. Francie

Francie is an upscale addition to the selection of restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, offering refined brasserie fare with a touch of decadence. This Michelin-star restaurant is known for dishes like juicy roast duck flambé or sweet lobster ravioli, delivering an impressive yet approachable dining experience to guests. 

Its stylish décor and five-star service make Francie a top choice for special occasions or for those who want an elegant yet warm and cozy restaurant near Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

4. Kokomo

Kokomo brings Caribbean flavors to the restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, in a lively and vibrant setting. This restaurant delivers flavor and spice with dishes like jerk chicken pasta or oxtail flatbread alongside signature tropical cocktails that make you feel like you’re in an island paradise. The upbeat atmosphere and bold flavors make it an inviting spot for a fun night out with friends.

5. Laser Wolf

Laser Wolf Interior
Laser wolf (via Boka Restaurant Group)

Laser Wolf is a trendy and hip restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, specializing in bold flavors and communal Israeli grill-style dining. Known for its aromatic skewers and abundant salatim (small vegetable dishes,) this Williamsburg restaurant’s rooftop experience is ideal for those searching for a unique vegan restaurant in NYC. The stunning Manhattan views add to its allure, making it a memorable destination for any group gathering or night out. 

6. Bonnie’s

If you crave flavor but are ready to take a break from the standard Chinese food in NYC, try Bonnies. This Cantonese restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, serves signature dishes, including crispy shrimp toast or housemade char siu pork. 

The interior is modern and trendy, with an inviting, vibrant atmosphere. This is a stand-out choice for adventurous eaters searching for unique restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC.  

7. Huda

Huda brings a fresh approach to French dining and sandwich restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC. Helmed by celebrated chef Ghad Hadidi, this spot has a French flair and transforms simple ingredients into works of art. 

A standout option is their smoked brisket, paired with inventive sides like spiced fries. Many of the menu items at this hidden gem in NYC are inspired by Hadidi’s family recipes. This restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is perfect for a casual yet elevated dining experience.

8. Best Pizza

As the name implies, Best Pizza is renowned as the best pizza restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC. The classic white pizza with ricotta and caramelized onions or the Margherita are fan favorites among locals. This no-frills establishment offers a casual atmosphere and budget-friendly pricing. It’s perfect if you’re searching for a restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, to enjoy with family or friends. 

9. The Four Horsemen

The Four Horsemen Restaurant in Williamsburg
Dining at The Four Horsemen (via The Four Horsemen)

Enjoy an impressive assortment of wines and flavorful small bites at The Four Horsemen, a fantastic choice in a restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, for a warm, intimate dining experience. The hidden gem is a haven for foodies and has a vast menu that includes fresh, juicy chicken and creative vegetarian dishes. 

Michelin-star suggestions include the veal sweetbread skewers with soy-cured egg yolk or the crisp chickpea crepe woven with pieces of squash blossoms. Reservations are required at this trend-setting restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC. 

Casual Restaurants in Williamsburg

10. Lucy’s Vietnamese

Lucy’s Vietnamese is a top pick for those craving international, bold and comforting flavors in a New York City establishment. This restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is loved for its pho and spicy beef noodles. Both are filled to the brim with rich, authentic Vietnamese flavor. The restaurant’s casual and colorful setting is ideal for a budget-friendly, relaxed dining experience.

11. Diner

Dine in a repurposed railcar at this iconic restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, Diner. Enjoy locally sourced, grass-fed burgers and a unique menu filled with seasonal treats. When you dine here, a portion of the proceeds go directly to local farmers. Warm wood and aged enamel fill the cozy space, and an expansive bar is the centerpiece of your dining experience. You’ll feel welcomed and right at home in this touchstone for the neighborhood. 

12. Rosa’s Pizza

Rosa’s Pizza is a staple for casual and delicious food in NYC, serving delicious slices of pie in Williamsburg. Known for its classic New York-style pizza, the “Grandma Slice” and buffalo chicken pie are crowd favorites. As a quintessential pizza and casual Italian restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, Rosa’s delivers a laid-back dining experience for locals and visitors alike. It’s the ideal choice for family dining or lunch out on a budget.

13. Hole in the Wall

Hole in the Wall Restaurant interior
Inside Hole in the Wall (via Hole in the Wall)

Hole in the Wall is a cozy and welcoming restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, known for its down-under, Australian-inspired menu and laid-back vibe. Ample seating is available inside and out, and the modern restaurant has an open, airy feeling. 

A must-try menu item is their signature avocado smash, served with creamy feta and fresh dukkah on sourdough bread, or the truffle mushroom pasta for a more indulgent and flavor-filled option. With its eclectic atmosphere and a menu with vibrant dishes that are difficult to find elsewhere, this is a great spot for a casual family outing or lunch with friends.

14. Lion’s Milk

Lion’s Milk is an adorable little spot for gathering and a welcoming café and bar. The establishment offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes, pastries and specialty drinks. This restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is loved for its warm, flaky spinach and feta borek or the light and refreshing avocado halloumi salad. Pair your meal with a latte or energy-inducing Turkish coffee. Its relaxed atmosphere and comfortable outdoor seating make it ideal for a casual meal or drink.

15. The Levee

The Levee is a laid-back bar and eatery known for its comfort food and fun vibes. While technically more of a bar than a restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, The Levee is a casual spot where you can enjoy comfort food, sharing-sized portions of frito pie and chips and salsa. 

Order a vegetarian hot dog alongside your favorite microbrew; their beer selection is impressive. The service is friendly, and the atmosphere is dark and divey with neon lights and a copper-tin ceiling. 

16. Have-A-Bagel

Have-A-Bagel is a local gem for breakfast or lunch on the go and soft, fresh and flavorful bagels in the Brooklyn area. This casual and affordable counter service restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, serves classics like an everything bagel with lox or hearty breakfast sandwiches with farm-fresh eggs, smokey bacon and sharp cheddar. 

Its friendly atmosphere and quick service make it a staple for a satisfying weekday morning stop on the way to the office.

17. Birds of a Feather

Birds of a Feather Restaurant in Williamsburg
Birds of a Feather interior (via Birds of a Feather)

Birds of a Feather is a modern, open and airy spot that brings authentic Sichuan cuisine to Brooklyn. This restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, offers dishes like fresh dan dan noodles and spiced kung pao chicken, perfect for those who enjoy bold, international cuisine. Its sleek atmosphere and large communal table make it the ideal spot to meet friends for a drink or enjoy a lively dinner out on the town. 

Best New Restaurants in Williamsburg

18. Gus and Marty’s

Gus and Marty’s is a restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, bringing a fresh take on Greek cuisine.  Its warm, taverna-inspired atmosphere with darker, earthy tones welcomes guests in and invites them to sit awhile, converse and leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind momentarily. Family inspires the restaurant and menu, as evident by the many family pictures that adorn the walls. 

This 65-seat gem offers a menu that blends traditional Greek dishes with creative herbs and spices, such as taramasalata topped with trout caviar and feta saganaki paired with fresh thyme-infused honey. Don’t miss their petite gyros with Pat LaFrieda meat, a nod to owner Demetri Makoulis’ Greek heritage. ​

19. Bang Bang Bangkok

Bang Bang Bangkok offers a modern twist on classic Thai street food. This vibrant restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is modeled after a transportation center with narrow seating and scenes transporting guests through different Bangkok marketplaces. It boasts bold flavors and inventive presentations for its delicious dishes. 

Guests give rave reviews to menu options like the crispy rice salad and spicy grilled pork skewers, perfect for those craving authentic Thai cuisine in a lively setting​ with colorful, graffiti-filled corrugated tin walls and images of Bangkok at night on projection screens that create a unique experience for diners.

20. Llama Inn

The Llama Inn Rooftop is a new addition to the popular Llama Inn and is available seasonally. It offers stunning skyline waterfront views and a unique menu filled with inventive Peruvian-inspired cuisine. This standout restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, serves dishes like warm ceviche with sea bass and sweet potato or spiced hanger steak with a creative twist, making it an ideal spot for group gatherings in a stylish, open-air setting​. 

Rustic wood tables, warming lamps and authentic Peruvian shag rugs fill the rooftop space, which has a capacity for 25 guests for a seated dinner. The homey vibe creates an intimate atmosphere for a special celebration or an elegant night on the town. 

21. Matchaful

Matchaful Williamsburg Café
Matchaful Williamsburg (via Matchaful)

Matchaful redefines the café experience with its dedication to high-quality, sustainable Japanese matcha. Located in Williamsburg, this female-owned, serene café serves beautifully crafted matcha lattes and matcha-infused pastries, perfect for a casual stop to recharge in the heart of the neighborhood.​ Try their decadent vegan matcha donuts paired with a creamy frozen matcha for an afternoon treat. 

This restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC’s commitment to sustainability and health includes working in direct trade with Japanese tea farmers who use environmentally friendly and labor-friendly practices. The setting is serene and inspired by plant life and traditional tea ceremonies, with earthy colors and unique textures that provide guests with a tranquil escape from everyday life. 

22. Tacombi

Tacombi’s Williamsburg outpost delivers a vibrant dining experience featuring authentic Mexican tacos and a lively, welcoming space. Their al pastor tacos and esquites are guest favorites and real crowd-pleasers. This restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, offers a flavorful journey to Mexico City’s street food culture. 

The restaurant has roots in Mexico City and as a small bus transformed into a food truck. It is part of a popular chain and one of many locations across New York City, Miami and Washington DC. 

23. Chino Grande

Chino Grande blends Asian and Latin American flavors to create a unique and dynamic menu. This inventive restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, features stunning green leather booths and showcases dishes like pork dumplings with mole sauce. 

The fusion of flavors and aromas keeps diners raving and coming back for more. This cozy neighborhood restaurant also offers karaoke Wednesday through Saturday. Make a reservation here for a fun night out with friends or a special birthday celebration featuring coconut sago for dessert. 

24. Bar Blondeau

Bar Blondeau, located atop the Wythe Hotel, is a sleek, stylish restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC. It offers Spanish, Portuguese and French-inspired small plates that are served to guests while they enjoy breathtaking panoramic city views. 

Guests at this Williamsburg favorite enjoy dishes like perfectly seasoned steak tartare or hazelnut-crusted tuna paired with crispy potatoes or fragrant saffron rice with morcilla. The menu is perfectly complemented by an extensive natural wine list, a wide variety of signature cocktails and exceptional five-star service from Bar Blondeau’s highly trained staff. ​

Trendy Restaurants in Williamsburg, Brooklyn

25. Lilia

Lilia Restaurant
Lilia (via Lilia New York)

Lilia, a darling Italian restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC’s dining scene, excels in preparing contemporary food and serving it paired with fine wines. Its handmade pastas, like the ricotta gnocchi with saffron butter and fennel pollen, are must-tries, and the wood-fired seafood dishes are fresh from the sea, aromatic and delicious. This restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is a perfect spot for foodies seeking bold yet comforting flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.

26. Aska

Aska, a two-Michelin-star restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, features creations from chef Fredrik Berselius. It offers an intimate and innovative dining experience. Their menu is served out of an open kitchen and based on the aromas and spices of Scandinavian cuisine. The hand-crafted, seasonal tasting menu features ingredients like sea buckthorn, aged duck and wild herbs. 

The unique location, in a restored 1860s warehouse near the Williamsburg bridge, lends to the sophisticated atmosphere. With every bite, you can taste the commitment to creativity that makes Aska a standout choice for anyone seeking a special night out in a top-tier restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC​. 

27. Okonomi

This minimalist eatery in Williamsburg serves traditional Japanese breakfast and lunch in a modern, serene environment. Their ichiju-sansai set, featuring grilled fish, rice, miso soup and pickled vegetables, is a fan favorite that exemplifies simplicity and balance. The meal is freshly prepared, light, healthy and affordable, with a modest price of $12 per person. 

Okonomi is a hidden gem for lovers of traditional Japanese cuisine looking for a tranquil dining experience in a conveniently located restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC. The quaint setting only seats 12 guests, so there will almost certainly be a wait. Come prepared and arrive early. 

28. Barano

Barano delivers rustic Italian dishes with a focus on wood-fired cooking. Chef Albert DiMeglio’s handmade, pull-apart mozzarella and cheesy, saucy Neapolitan-style pizzas are especially popular among guests. Many menu items are served alongside seasonal pasta dishes. One example is the fresh garganelli with tender lamb ragu. 

Enjoy a glass of sustainable, natural wine as the perfect compliment to your meal. The warm, welcoming ambiance, modern interior and lovely patio space make it a delightful restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, to visit for a casual yet elevated meal with family and friends. 

29. Sunday in Brooklyn

Sunday in Brooklyn Restaurant in Williamsburg
Sunday in Brooklyn (via Sunday in Brooklyn)

This beloved restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is known for its creative takes on American brunch classics. Signature dishes include malted pancakes with rich hazelnut praline and melted brown butter and savory smoked salmon toast with tart dill and caper cream. 

Its cozy yet modern atmosphere includes multiple floors and plenty of seating, but the restaurant is popular, so reservations are recommended. It is a top restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, for brunch enthusiasts​ who enjoy large portions and creative signature cocktails. 

30. Bamonte’s

As one of Brooklyn's oldest Italian restaurants, Bamonte’s combines old-world charm with hearty traditional international fare. The restaurant sits inside a two-story house in Williamsburg, faced with stone and red clapboards that give it an almost rustic farmhouse feel. 

Favorites include chicken parmigiana and homemade ravioli in a rich, savory tomato sauce. Dining here offers a nostalgic trip back in time while savoring authentic Italian-American cuisine in a fantastic, family-owned restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC. ​

31. Ainslie

Ainslie is a popular restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, with a vibrant setting in a massive 10,000 sq ft space that includes a gorgeous outdoor garden patio adorned with twinkle lights and greenery. Their expansive menu contains Italian comfort food, wood-fired pizzas, NY steak and free-range chicken dishes. 

Their full bar and drink menu are also robust. Highlights include housemade linguini, truffle fries and a burrata appetizer. The spacious beer garden and lively energy make it a standout spot for groups, family outings and fun gatherings in Williamsburg.​

32. Fushimi

For those craving fresh-rolled sushi and modern Japanese fare, Fushimi blends sleek, modern design with an expansive, authentic Japanese menu. The trendy interior is funky and fun, with neon lights and colorful accents. 

Signature rolls like the Dragon Roll or creative fusion dishes like truffle tuna tataki are guest favorites. This is an excellent restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, for a chic and flavorful dining experience or a special date night out on the town. 

33. Hungry Ghost Coffee

Hungry Ghost Coffee Interior
Hungry Ghost Coffee (via Hungry Ghost Coffee)

Hungry Ghost Coffee’s owner Murat Uyaroglu is originally from Istanbul, Turkey, where coffee and conversation are simple elements that define everyday life, and coffeehouses are the heart of many communities. In the early 2000s, she brought this feeling to NYC and opened the first Hungry Ghosts. 

Today, it is a trendy pick with multiple locations across the city. The welcoming space at this coffee house and simple breakfast restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is ideal for commuters who need a spot to work and anyone searching for a robust cup of coffee, fresh pastries and friendly service.

Restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC FAQs

Is Williamsburg, NYC, Worth Visiting?

Williamsburg, NYC, is definitely worth visiting! According to CUNY resources, it was annexed into the city in 1855 and has been a mecca for young creatives for over two decades. Today, the borough boasts a thriving culinary scene and plenty of restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC. 

There are also fun and unique storefronts, breathtaking views of the East River waterfront, a casual, laid-back vibe and an eclectic, energetic nightlife. Williamsburg has something for everyone to see, enjoy and love. 

Why Is Williamsburg Brooklyn so Popular?

Williamsburg, Brooklyn, continues to grow in popularity because the neighborhood offers the perfect balance of creativity, culture and community. Here, you will find locals coming together to support some of the best fun places to eat in Williamsburg. 

There are also storefronts with friendly shop owners selling unique homemade crafts, international finds and other goods and services. The neighborhood is walkable and accessible. For a unique date idea in NYC, visit here and enjoy the restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, beautiful waterfront views and lively music filling the air most days of the week. 

 

The incredible restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, draw people to the area and provide the local community with interesting places to eat, socialize and gather. Whether you are new to the area or a long-time resident, this culinary haven is worth checking out. From the authentic flavors of global cuisine to inventive new concepts that push culinary boundaries, Williamsburg’s restaurants exude flavor, fun, creativity and charm. 

Add to this the inviting community atmosphere, unique waterfront charm, inspiring art presence and lively eclectic music scene that Williamsburg has to offer, and you will quickly realize that this NYC destination belongs on your list for dinner tonight. Which restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, would you choose for your next outing?

For even more fun things to try in NYC, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!