Williamsburg food + coffee guide

From someone who's lived in New York 2x (and is often plotting her return).

I love New York. It’s a love that might seem overdone or phony to those who don’t get it—but for those who do, you know exactly what I mean.

The neighborhood of Williamsburg, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. I lived in my then-dream studio before moving back to Los Angeles a few years ago (a story for another time) and have revisited twice since. 

Any movie or TV show set in Manhattan or Brooklyn? I devour it.

Any opportunity to share stories from my time living there? I take it. Speaking of…

Living in New York can be tough, but its magic, buzz, and energy make the hard parts almost feel irrelevant—or at least forgivable.

Given that I’m (clearly) feeling nostalgic for my time in Williamsburg, I thought it’d be fun to write up a guide for anyone who’s interested. If you, like me, appreciate any of these things, then you’ll likely enjoy this guide too:

• Walking a lot! Like, more than the average person.

• A freshly baked croissant that rivals what you’d get in Paris.

• Really great coffee/spots to read, hang or people watch at.

• Charming restaurants with incredible food, service, and ambiance.

Okay, let’s get into it.

Coffee shops + bakeries:

• Devocion – this coffee spot’s got a great industrial vibe—it’s also within walking distance of Domino Park, which is a great place to sit and enjoy the beauty that is New York—ideally with a coffee and/or morning snack in tow.

• La Bicyclette – this YouTube feature originally sold me on this Parisian bakery—I can’t visit Williamsburg without grabbing (at least!) one of their pains au chocolat. Their baguettes are also next level.

• Bakeri – a charming, tiny, Scandinavian-inspired bakery with very popular baked goods. Their full menu is great too, if you have time for a sit-down meal.

• Butler – they make their matcha using Matchaful matcha, my go-to at home—they also have great takeaway pastries and empanadas.

Breakfast + brunch:

• Leon’s Bagels – a newish bagel spot that has quickly moved to the top of my list. Their egg and avocado on everything is perfection—don’t forget to add hot honey.

• Two Hands – a welcoming Australian cafe with plenty of healthy options. Plus, I’m still thinking about their banana bread—best I’ve ever had? Maybe.

• 12 Chairs – it is not a trip to New York without a visit to 12 Chairs (for me). Order their mushroom hummus, fresh pita (comes out warm!), meatballs, and an array of salads. Perhaps some wine, too. You can’t go wrong.

• Cafe Mogador – this all-day restaurant has locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan—known for its Moroccan dishes, with dimly lit yet warm interiors. I love it so.

• Sunday in Brooklyn – this is where you BRUNCH. They have a super extensive menu full of elevated classics, plus all the daytime cocktails you could want.

Dinner spots:

• Misi – I used to live right above this restaurant! Incredible handmade pasta dishes–the atmosphere is wonderfully romantic and cozy. Book ahead if you can.

• Birds of a Feather – if you like dumplings, fun cocktails, and a great soundtrack, go here. I took my co-workers when we visited for a work trip this spring and it was just as lovely and lively as I remembered.

• Le Crocodile – chic, with a very French menu; I remember sitting at the bar and having the best time.

• Juliette – also chic, also French-inspired; when you can’t fly to Paris but are craving a taste of it, go here.

Wine + cocktail bars:

• Maison Premiere - this cocktail bar will teleport you to another era in the best possible way.

• Sauced – there’s no menu at this natural wine bar—just tell the bartenders what kind of wine you usually like and they’ll pour you a glass of something delicious, likely a bit funky, and surprisingly affordable.

Honorable mentions:

• Noods n’ Chill – a very casual BYOB spot with super flavorful Thai food.

• The Hoxton – book a room here, work from here, grab a coffee and read a book—it’s the perfect spot for whatever you’re after.

• Catbird – a boutique store with gorgeous jewelry for you or someone you love.

• Artists and Fleas – a great spot to visit on the weekends; listen to music, grab a coffee, peruse the vintage records and jewelry stands, have yourself a time.

• Joe’s Pizza – it’s not a visit to New York without a (late-night) visit to Joe’s. Trust.

Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking for new spots to add to my list, as I’ll likely be back in the spring (to get my annual fix). As I do!

Ciao for now,

Jess