29 Best Restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC in 2024

Restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, are the beating heart of Brooklyn’s food scene, where every block offers a fresh take on exceptional cuisine. While many are drawn to this hipster haven that's known for its street art, buzzing nightlife and unique shops, according to Camp New York, it’s the food that keeps them coming back.

With some of NYC’s trendiest restaurants and clubs, Williamsburg continues to set the standard for dining and entertainment. From waterfront hotspots to cozy neighborhood staples, the best restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, cater to every craving and occasion.

But with so many incredible options, where do you even begin? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. From wood-fired pizza to Michelin-starred tasting menus, this guide dives into the very best restaurants in Williamsburg. 

Jump to Section

• The 29 Best Williamsburg, NYC Restaurants
• Other Fun Culinary Experiences in NYC

The 29 Best Williamsburg, NYC Restaurants

1. Birds of a Feather

The Sichuan cuisine at Birds of a Feather is crafted by the creative minds behind Michelin-starred Café China. Since opening in 2017, this stylish spot has become a staple among restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, serving bold noodle-based dishes, delicate dim sum and cocktails infused with Asian herbal tea. 

The Vibe

This oriental oasis is one of the most authentic Chinese restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, filled with décor reflecting Asian cultures and Sichuan cuisine.

What to Order

Try the spicy soft shell crab, a signature entrée featuring crispy fried crab and aromatic fried shallots with a spicy kick. The green tea ice cream with vanilla mochi is a must-try dessert.

Birds of a Feather | 191 Grand St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$

2. Ensenada

Hidden within the heart of Brooklyn's trendiest neighborhood, Ensenada is a mariscos and mezcal haven that brings the vibrant flavors of Baja California to restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC. Led by Chef Luis Herrera, it’s a destination for crispy fish tacos, toothsome tostadas and a mezcal selection that's as diverse as its coastal-inspired menu.

The Vibe

Immerse yourself in a lively atmosphere where busy crowds gather to dine in a tropical-inspired restaurant with Tulum-style lighting and hanging plants. 

What to Order

Order the pescado del dia “al pibil”, featuring tender fish in a rich recado rojo with pickled onions, sunchoke chips and house-made tortillas. 

Ensenada | 168 Borinquen Pl., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$$

3. Francie

Tucked in a stunning former bank building on the corner of Broadway and Bedford, Francie is one of the premier fine dining restaurants Williamsburg, NYC, has to offer. With its Michelin-starred status, this contemporary brasserie redefines sophistication, from creative pastas to elegant soufflé cakes topped with caviar.

The Vibe

Enjoy the intimate ambiance of dim lighting, paired with a sleek, minimalist interior design that surrounds a large bar and features an elegant display of spirits.

What to Order

Indulge in the ravioli with lobster, tarragon and saffron, a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. 

Francie | 136 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$$

4. Kru

When visiting restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, Kru stands out for its modern take on 100-year-old Thai recipes inspired by royal traditions, crafted by Chef Ohm Suansilphong. Recognized by the Michelin Guide and as a James Beard semifinalist, this spot delivers bold, layered flavors in dishes like beef tongue curry and cauliflower steak.

The Vibe

The intimate atmosphere experienced in this restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is thanks to the dimly lit walls, botanical artwork and racks of delicate stemware, all culminating in modern elegance.

What to Order

Try the honey soy crispy pork belly. This dish features Berkshire porchetta with a delectable honey-soy glaze, paired with garlic butter lotus root and mushrooms. 

Kru | 190 N. 14th St., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$

5. Aska 

The Nordic cuisine at Aska, led by Michelin-starred Chef Fredrik Berselius, has cemented its reputation as a must-visit restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, for fine dining enthusiasts. With just 10 tables facing an open kitchen, guests are treated to an intimate 12 to 14-course journey that highlights the landscapes of New York and the Northeast. 

The Vibe

Step into a cozy, candlelit space with soft lighting from above, creating the perfect ambiance for a romantic date or an intimate birthday dinner in NYC.

What to Order

The tasting menu at this restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, showcases Nordic flavors and seasonal ingredients in every dish, such as lobster paired with elderflower or hake accompanied by caviar. 

Aska | 47 S. Fifth St., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$$

6. Maison Premiere 

More than a decade after opening its doors, Maison Premiere has earned its place as one of the most beloved restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC. Inspired by the French Quarter, it’s known for its show-stopping absinthe fountain, meticulously crafted cocktails and one of the city’s best raw bar selections.

The Vibe

Step into this energetic restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, featuring a lush outdoor patio with hanging plants and antique lighting. On colder days, you could enjoy the cozy, wine-bar vibes indoors instead.

What to Order

Order the tender bavette steak, a premium cut served with mushrooms and bordelaise sauce. 

Maison Premiere | 298 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$

7. Kokomo 

Bringing the energy of the Caribbean to Williamsburg, Kokomo is known for its immersive dining experience. This award-winning spot reimagines classic island dishes, such as braised oxtail and jerk chicken, served in several captivating dining rooms with chic interiors. Plus, there are live DJs on weekends that set the perfect mood for creative cocktails to take center stage.

The Vibe

Easily one of the most beautifully decorated restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, this dreamy Caribbean oasis features tropical seating, oriental accents and tiki-inspired bamboo décor.

What to Order

Enjoy the red snapper, a splurge-worthy dish served fried or oven-baked. Pair it with seasonal vegetables or rice for a hearty meal.

Kokomo | 65 Kent Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$

8. Laser Wolf

Perched atop the Hoxton Hotel, Laser Wolf brings a slice of Israeli skewer house tradition to Williamsburg, offering breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Named after Lazar Wolf from "Fiddler on the Roof," this lively rooftop spot by award-winning chef Michael Solomonov pairs flame-kissed kebabs with vibrant salatim spreads, delivering one of the most memorable dining experiences among restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC.

The Vibe

With floor-to-ceiling windows framing the skyline, this spot sets the perfect vibe for a date night or a fun evening out. Add a spacious patio for warmer nights, and it’s easily one of the best restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, for celebratory dinners with friends.

What to Order

Try the grilled foie gras with apple and burnt date molasses, a rich and indulgent dish served on toasted pita. The brown sugar soft serve will be the ideal way to end your meal.

Laser Wolf | 97 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$$

9. The Four Horsemen

Opened in 2015 by James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem, The Four Horsemen has carved out its place as one of the must-visit restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC. This Michelin-starred gem pairs an eclectic natural wine list with an ever-evolving, seasonally inspired menu. 

The Vibe

Expect a lively crowd in this intimate restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, featuring tightly packed tables, sleek white lights and minimalist wood paneling. 

What to Order

You never know what you might find on the ever-changing menu, but some of the eatery's former creations include veal sweetbread skewers and a wax bean salad. The latter features a trio of flavors from peppers, fennel and lemon.

The Four Horsemen | 295 Grand St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$

10. Bamonte’s

A fixture of Italian-American dining since 1900, Bamonte’s is a family-owned treasure that has stood the test of time among restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC. With its chandelier-lit dining room and waitstaff sporting tuxedos, you’ll get to enjoy decades-old family recipes. 

The Vibe

Few eateries offer a more old-world Italian charm than this timeless restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, with its luxurious chandeliers, historic family paintings and classic round tables draped in white cloth.

What to Order

Order the broiled lobster tails, perfectly cooked and drizzled with a rich, buttery garlic sauce. The stuffed mushrooms are a delectable appetizer if you're feeling ravenous.

Bamonte’s | 32 Withers St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$

11. Peter Luger Steak House

As the name suggests, there's no better restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, to get a perfectly cooked cut of meat than Peter Luger Steak House. Since 1887, this legendary eatery has been delighting customers with steaks that are dry-aged on-site and served sizzling in their own juices by waiters (wearing bow-ties) who treat service like an art form. 

The Vibe

The interior of this charming restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, blends classic steakhouse charm with dark chocolate tones. The Renaissance-style chandeliers evoke old-world European elegance. 

What to Order

Go big with the dry-aged steak for two, a rich and tender centerpiece cooked to perfection. The ideal pairings for this meal are the French fried potatoes or the fresh broccoli. 

Peter Luger Steak House | 178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$$$

12. Bonnie’s

A popular staple among restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, Bonnie’s is a love letter to Cantonese-American cuisine. This beloved eatery was inspired by Chef Calvin Eng’s heritage and named after his mother. Combining retro Hong Kong diner vibes with a modern Brooklyn edge, Bonnie’s delivers expertly crafted dishes, such as fermented bean curd-infused cacio e pepe and clam chowder jook.

The Vibe

Bonnie features a few bar seats, tiled floors and walls, and simple white lights. It’s one of the more authentically old-school Chinese restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC.

What to Order

As mentioned above, the clam chowder is a popular choice that customers can't get enough of. With littleneck clams, dried scallops and jasmine rice congee chowder, it's a combination of delicious flavors that makes for a memorable meal.

Bonnie’s | 398 Manhattan Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$$

13. The Commodore 

Known for its unapologetically satisfying comfort food, such as crispy fried chicken and towering nachos, The Commodore is one of the area's most popular eateries. Pair the food at this restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, with its iconic piña colada topped with amaretto float, and you’ve got a spot perfect for kicking back with friends.

The Vibe

Stepping away from the ordinary, this fun restaurant in NYC exudes retro vibes with its maroon leather booths, iconic arcade games and walls decked out with cheeky vintage décor. 

What to Order

Go for the fried chicken plate if you're a meat lover. It’s a crispy, comforting spread of three thighs served with flaky biscuits slathered in honey butter and a trio of hot sauces.

The Commodore | 366 Metropolitan Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$

14. Huda 

Named after the community center where owner, Gehad Hadidi, spent his youth in Damascus, Huda brings Levantine cuisine to the forefront of Brooklyn's culinary scene. This popular restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, showcases Hadidi’s Syrian heritage through its Lebanese and Palestinian flavors. 

The Vibe

Featuring a marble bar, cozy lighting and tasteful décor, this restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is the perfect spot for an intimate gathering with friends and family. 

What to Order

If you've never tried shish barak, you're in for a treat. The delightful combination of Lebanese beef and creamy yogurt sauce will have you questioning the possibility of a second portion. 

Huda | 312 Leonard St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$

15. Llama Inn 

With its airy, plant-filled interior and vibrant energy, Llama Inn reimagines Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Brooklyn. Known among restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, for its bold flavors, the menu highlights meat- and seafood-based specialties that make for a memorable dining experience.

The Vibe

Llama Inn exudes Peruvian elegance with contemporary art, ambient lighting and cascading vines. This restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is also given a captivating touch thanks to the romantic candles scattered throughout.

What to Order

Opt for the lomo saltado, which features tender beef, a scallion pancake and bold rocoto flavors. 

Llama Inn | 50 Withers St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$$

16. Best Pizza

Opened in 2010 by Frank Pinello, Best Pizza brings authentic New York slice culture to Williamsburg, using a century-old, wood-burning oven to craft its signature pies. Influenced by Pinello’s Sicilian heritage, this restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, which was once a bakery, has become a favorite among locals and visitors.

The Vibe

Best Pizza captures the classic hole-in-the-wall charm that defines authentic New York pizza. With limited seating, this grab-and-go restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, often has long lines, but the pies are certainly worth the wait.

What to Order

Go for the Italian combo, a square-cut classic with provolone, cured meats and marinated eggplant, alongside onions, lettuce, mayonnaise and vinegar. 

Best Pizza | 33 Havemeyer St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $

17. K’Far

Meaning “village” in Hebrew, K’Far is a vibrant all-day café, bar and restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, inspired by Chef Michael Solomonov’s hometown in Israel. Located in the lobby of the Hoxton Hotel, K’Far transitions from mornings filled with lattes and Jerusalem bagels to evenings featuring dishes like savory baklava and lamb tartare.

The Vibe

Step into Middle Eastern luxury, where lush greenery and neutral-toned décor set the stage for ultimate relaxation. It’s arguably one of the most tranquil restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, to enjoy your meals.

What to Order

Order the Persian lamb shank for two, served with yellow rice, horseradish and sumac onions. If you're visiting for breakfast, an egg and cheese Jerusalem bagel is the perfect way to start your day.

K’Far | 97 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$

18. Diner

Set in what feels like the protected hold of a ship, Diner is a Williamsburg institution that helped define Brooklyn’s farm-to-table movement. Opened by Andrew Tarlow and Mark Firth in 1998, this pioneer of restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, continues to impress with its menu of seasonal, sustainable foods, featuring favorites like grass-fed burgers and perfectly roasted brick chicken.

The Vibe

True to its name, this restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, exudes old-school diner vibes with a central kitchen flanked by bar and booth seating.

What to Order

What better to order at an eatery called "Diner" than a delectable burger? Topped with pickled red onion, white cheddar and lettuce, there's only one way to describe this meal — irresistible.

Diner | 85 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$

19. L’Industrie Pizzeria

Helmed by Tuscan native Massimo Laveglia, L’industrie Pizzeria brings authentic Italian flavors to the heart of Brooklyn. This popular restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is known for its ultra-thin crust and inventive toppings, such as fig jam and burrata. 

The Vibe

This lively spot has all the makings of one of the most popular pizza restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC. Two of the first things you'll notice at this hole-in-the-wall gem are a bakery display up front and pizza chefs baking pies before your eyes.

What to Order

Try the fig jam and bacon pie, a unique sweet-and-savory masterpiece featuring fig jam, bacon, ricotta and mozzarella. Feel like dessert? Go for the olive oil cake for a fluffy slice of heaven.

L’Industrie Pizzeria | 254 S. Second St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$

20. Lilia 

Housed inside a repurposed auto body shop, Lilia has become a popular destination for Italian cuisine enthusiasts. Opened in 2016 by James Beard Award-winning Chef Missy Robbins, this must-visit restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, serves handmade pasta and wood-fired seafood in a relaxed, industrial-chic setting. 

The Vibe

The prominent alcohol display and central bar at this restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, attract the attention of lively customers. Whether you're seated at the bar or one of the cozy tables, the vibrant atmosphere makes for a memorable experience.

What to Order

If you're in the mood for pasta, get the Sheep's Milk Cheese Agnolotti. This elegant dish is highlighted by saffron and honey, creating a perfectly balanced blend of rich and sweet flavors.

Lilia | 567 Union Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$$$

21. Okonomi 

By day, Okonomi, an intimate 12-seat eatery, serves ichiju sansai, a traditional Japanese set meal with soup, three side dishes and rice. By night, it transforms into Yuji Ramen, one of the best Japanese restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, celebrated for its inventive mazemen and bold ramen creations.

The Vibe

The interior transports you straight to Japan with its minimalist, Oriental design, featuring small plants and bar seating that allows you to watch chefs master delicious creations. It's easily one of the most popular restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, for a quick, satisfying sit-down meal.

What to Order

The ichiju sansai features white rice, roasted fish and miso soup, as well as tsukemono, tamagoyaki and an additional seasonal vegetable for a satisfying meal with a medley of flavors.

Okonomi | 150 Ainslie St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$$

22. Pies ‘n’ Thighs 

Located near the Williamsburg Bridge, Pies ‘n’ Thighs has been serving up some of the best southern comfort food since 2006. Started by Sarah Sanneh and Carolyn Bane in a repurposed beer storage closet, this cozy restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, quickly became famous for its crispy fried chicken and decadent pies.

The Vibe

Pies ‘n’ Thighs brings a cozy diner-like vibe with brick walls, cozy white tables and outdoor lighting hanging from the awning.

What to Order

You can't go wrong with the chicken and waffles at a restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, that's renowned for comfort food. Add a side of French fries if your stomach calls for it.

Pies ‘n’ Thighs | 166 S. Fourth St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$

23. Cozy Royale

Created by the team behind The Meat Hook, Cozy Royale is a full-service restaurant that celebrates its Brooklyn roots, focusing on top-quality meats and a welcoming atmosphere. Named after the building’s former restaurant and event space, this beloved restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, blends classic tavern charm with inventive Appalachian-inspired dishes.

The Vibe

This cozy restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, offers a dimly lit ambiance reminiscent of a speakeasy, complemented by classic European-inspired décor that sets it apart.

What to Order

The bone marrow is the ideal way to start your meal before tucking into the scrumptious cheeseburger topped with onions, pickles and fancy sauce, and served with fries.

Cozy Royale | 434 Humboldt St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$ 

24. Barano

Inspired by the southern Italian roots of Chef Albert DiMeglio, Barano serves up a menu centered around wood-fired grills and ovens, offering handmade pastas and Neapolitan-style pizzas. This gem among restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, is known for its craft cocktails and handmade mozzarella. It's also a contender for the best pizza in NYC.

The Vibe

Step into one of the classiest restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, with Italian charm, thanks to the leather-cushioned booths, elegant plants and captivating Renaissance-inspired architecture.

What to Order

Locals and visitors will agree that this spot serves some of the best pizza in NYC, so it would be remiss of you not to try the ‘nduja. This sweet and savory pie features spicy pork salumi, ricotta, mozzarella and a drizzle of honey.

Barano | 26 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$

25. Atithi 

Derived from the ancient Sanskrit verse "Atithi Devo Bhava," meaning "consider the guest as god," Atithi embodies a warm and welcoming ethos in the heart of Williamsburg. Known for its generously portioned menu, it’s one of the best Indian restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, offering hearty dishes for unbeatable value. 

The Vibe

The space features a minimalist ambiance accented by antique lighting. The wall décor inside this restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, beautifully embodies India’s rich culture.

What to Order

Order the chicken or vegetable vindaloo for its perfectly spiced, tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with basmati rice. 

Atithi | 159 Grand St., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$

26. Misi

A haven for fans of Italian cuisine, Misi brings the art of hand-rolled pasta and flavorful vegetable antipasti to life. Helmed by Missy Robbins, the award-winning chef behind Lilia, this top restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, is open seven days a week for all dinner occasions. 

The Vibe

Step into a bright, airy restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, with light brick walls and hanging lights. With an open kitchen at its center, where you can see a lively team of chefs cooking, it's a fantastic family-friendly restaurant in NYC that the kids will enjoy. 

What to Order

You can never go wrong when ordering the gnocchi di ricotta. This popular dish features nduja, San Marzano tomato and garlic breadcrumbs for a flavorful combination that delights the taste buds.

Misi | 329 Kent Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$

27. Sunday in Brooklyn

With its three-story space and rustic vibe, Sunday in Brooklyn offers one of the best all-day dining experiences among restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC. Known for its inventive dishes, including the iconic pancakes, as well as its craft cocktails, this spot captures the essence of NYC foods. 

The Vibe

With lush greenery and a striking alcohol display at its impressive bar, this cabin-like space creates one of the most inviting atmospheres among restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC.

What to Order

Try the grilled flat iron steak, served with fries, if you're visiting this restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, for dinner. For breakfast or brunch, the hazelnut and maple praline pancakes are a delectable choice.

Sunday in Brooklyn | 348 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$

28. Le Crocodile

Tucked into the ground floor of the iconic Wythe Hotel, Le Crocodile is a French-inspired brasserie that has earned a coveted spot on the New York Times Top 100 Restaurants in NYC list for two years running. With perfectly executed dishes like roast chicken and steak frites, it stands out as one of the most elegant restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, blending Parisian sophistication with Brooklyn’s contemporary style. 

The Vibe

Step into French elegance at one of the most unique restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC. With its charming brick walls, vineyard-inspired plants, high-ceiling loft vibes and wooden tables, this spot exudes sophistication inside and out.

What to Order

For dinner, the roast chicken with sauce à l'estragon and frites goes down well before an order of creamy chocolate mousse. 

Le Crocodile | 80 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$

29. Santa Fe BK

Located in North Brooklyn, Santa Fe BK is one of the top restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, for Mexican food. From taco salads to Hatch green chile-smothered burritos and enchiladas, this cozy spot brings authentic flavors of New Mexico to the Williamsburg neighborhood. 

The Vibe

A candlelit ambiance with dim lighting and cushioned seating makes this one of the coziest restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC.

What to Order

If you're a fan of choice, the enchiladas at this restaurant in Williamsburg, NYC, are your go-to. They're loaded with your choice of green chile chicken, picadillo, pork adovada or calabacitas. 

Santa Fe BK | 178 N. Eighth St., Brooklyn, NY 11211 | $$

Other Fun Culinary Experiences in NYC

Beyond exploring the best restaurants in Williamsburg, why not take your love for food a step further? By booking cooking classes in NYC, you'll get to experience an exciting and immersive way to sharpen your culinary skills. With the guidance of professional chefs, you’ll learn tips, tricks and techniques to create gourmet meals that rival your favorite restaurants. 

If you prefer to explore the city’s vibrant food culture without stepping into the kitchen, food tours in NYC are another fantastic option. Led by experienced guides, these tours offer an insider’s perspective on the local culinary scene. You’ll discover hidden gems, learn the fascinating history behind them and, of course, enjoy an array of tastings along the way. 

Williamsburg has solidified its place as one of NYC’s most exciting culinary destinations. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the diverse selection of restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, ensures there’s always something new and delicious to try.

Sure, this neighborhood is known for its buzzing nightlife, indie music venues and trendy wineries, but the food scene takes it to another level. Whether you’re savoring Mexican favorites or tucking into plates of hearty comfort food, the top restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC, will turn any ordinary day into an unforgettable experience. 

For even more ways to explore Williamsburg and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.