Itineraries for Your Trip to Brooklyn
3 Days in Williamsburg for Foodies
When I lived in Brooklyn, I was never far from Williamsburg, drawn in by sleek coffee shops and artisan groceries, pizzerias and bakeries, breweries and bars. Scoping out the street food offerings at the seasonal Smorgasburg and Brooklyn Flea was a regular weekend pastime.
Though I now return to Williamsburg as a visitor, the area hasn’t lost its foodie shine. Those culinary delights are still present, supplemented by an ever-evolving and dynamic restaurant and bar scene that continues to earn the neighborhood a top spot on the city’s dining map. Three days is enough time to discover many of Williamsburg’s tastiest stops—here’s the perfect itinerary.
New York’s weather is all about seasonal extremes; check the forecast and be prepared.
If you have time for just one thing, make it a slice at a top Williamsburg pizzeria—it’s a Brooklyn essential, after all.
Brooklyn has been slinging top-notch pizza for more than a century, and you can’t explore Williamsburg without stopping to grab a slice. Celebrated spots include Joe’s Pizza, Vinnie’s Pizzeria, L’Industrie Pizzeria, and the aptly named Best Pizza—some of which can be visited as part of a neighborhood foodie tour.
Pizza and beer are an iconic duo—and that’s especially true in Brooklyn. Go on a beery adventure to Williamsburg’s top drinking dens. Visit world-renowned Brooklyn Brewery, explore craft beer bars, and learn why the neighborhood is a suds lovers destination. Then, continue into the wee hours on a Williamsburg pub crawl.
Even if “Brooklyn” and “hipsters” are synonymous, there’s so much more to the borough and Williamsburg than that tired stereotype. Venture to South Williamsburg, home to a longstanding Hasidic community. While learning about the community's history and culture on a walking tour, you’ll also visit a bakery and a deli to sample traditional kosher bites.
Stay adventurous and try more classic dishes that make Williamsburg such a food-friendly neighborhood. From bagels to biscuits, pierogi to esquites, you’ll sample from the area’s eclectic eateries on a tour and get a taste for the neighborhood’s diverse demographics and immigrant history.
You’ve had pizza, you’ve had bagels—don’t forget about doughnuts. Brooklyn loves a doughnut shop, and both Williamsburg and nearby Greenpoint offer plenty. Join on a doughnut-themed walking tour, and follow your guide to top spots. Don’t forget to order a coffee to stave off the sugar crash.
Believe it or not, there’s still more to sample in Williamsburg. Whether you want to explore craft cocktail spots or natural wine bars, hip restaurants or buzzing markets, consider booking a private neighborhood tour that’s customized to your interests. It's an easy way to taste everything you want before your trip is through.
