10 Hidden Gems and Activities in and Around Williamsburg, Brooklyn
I’ve spent over a year and half now living in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and I couldn’t be happier with this neighborhood. It has everything I love and in this post I’m sharing some more of my favorite things to do in and around here. If you missed it, don’t forget to check out my last 10 Things To Do in Williamsburg, Brooklyn for more inspiration.
THE BROOKLYN MUSEUM
The Brooklyn Museum is New York City’s third largest museum in size with almost 1.5 million works of art from all around the world.
UPSTATE STOCK
Upstate Stock is a local business in town that specializes in fine knit goods and sells a variety of other interesting items - mostly upstate New York themed. I stop in for their brewed coffee and the (most delicious) flourless chocolate walnut cookies after a fun browse around the store.
TAIYAKI NYC
Taiyaki NYC is a Japanese ice cream shop serving homemade waffles and soft serve ice cream. They’re known for their fish-shaped ice cream cones, but the mochi donuts are my go-to.
MCCARREN PARK GREENMARKET
If you happen to be in Williamsburg on a Saturday, you can’t miss the McCarren Park Greenmarket located on Union Avenue and N. 12th St. currently open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. They have all your local farm favorites in one long stroll.
Arlo Williamsburg (formerly The Williamsburg Hotel)
As a local I’ve played with the idea of spending the night at The Arlo Williamsburg, but luckily I had a friend visit and stay here and it’s really worth a visit if even just for breakfast at the restaurant or a drink at the Watertower Bar.
Taqueria Casa Imelda is a Tex-Mex fusion restaurant in town that’s no frills, just all good food and drinks. Owner Manuel and his crew add all the ambiance you could ever need and you always walk out of there happy. My favorites on the menu are the burrito bowls, shrimp tacos and (of course) the margaritas.
Nitehawk Cinema
Nitehawk Cinema is a unique independent dine-in movie theater experience serving up a curated selection of films using 35 mm projection. Each screening features a 30 minute pre-show made in-house. A specialty menu including food and drinks is served tableside in the comfort of your seat.
MARTHA’S COUNTRY BAKERY
Martha’s Country Bakery has one of its locations in Williamsburg. They bake all of their products on-site every single day year-round. Walk in and you’ll be captivated by all those fresh baked smells (you’ve been warned).
Birds of a Feather is a beautifully designed Chinese restaurant serving Sichuan cuisine. It’s owned by Yiming and Xian, the Michelin-starred duo behind Cafe China. My number one on the menu is the soft-shell crab.
XIXA
Xixa is an upscale modern Mexican restaurant and bar serving their unique take on some of the cuisine’s staples with a selection of mezcals. Some personal favorites from the menu include the ceviche, coconut shrimp, fish tacos and michelada.
