February 21, 2023

This newsletter is currently in beta. Please send us feedback or send us tips about Williamsburg.

Welcome back to our weekly newsletter! This week's edition covers a wide range of topics, from a construction update on an 11-story office building in DUMBO to the return of the Dolly Parton look-alike contest at Mable's Smokehouse. We also explore the flourishing development projects in Williamsburg and Bushwick, as well as the Black Artists + Designers Guild Mural Project. Plus, learn about the efforts to address environmental racism in NYC Council zoning amendments and affordable coliving options in Williamsburg. Don't miss out on these exciting updates and more!

🍔 Food & Restaurants

Coniglio's Old Fashioned in Morristown: Williamsburg's Award-Winning Pizza Comes to NJ!

Nino Coniglio has opened the family-owned pizzeria Coniglio's Old Fashioned in Morristown, NJ, bringing his award-winning Brooklyn-style pizzas from Williamsburg and winning the title of "Best Pizza in New Jersey" at the 3rd Annual Pizza Bowl.

Williamsburg Diners Keep Iconic New York Tradition Alive Despite Pandemic

As a result of the pandemic, iconic New York diners are dwindling; however, Williamsburg diners such as Golden Diner, Baby Blues Luncheonette, Sandwich and Pickle, Kellogg’s Diner, S & P Lunch, and Superiority Burger have kept this classic tradition alive.

Discover the Best of Williamsburg's Bagels with NYC Bagel Tours!

Experience the best bagel spots in Williamsburg with NYC Bagel Tours- uncover the history of the iconic New York bagel with two long-time connoisseurs, and gain exclusive access to unique offerings like the 'cragel'.

A Taste of Tradition: Enjoying Appetizing Eats in East Williamsburg

Simply Nova, an East Williamsburg appetizing shop, offers customers a nostalgic experience filled with classic deli boards, pastrami, herring, and plenty of lox options; catering to traditional appetizing foods and allowing customers of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy the good eats.

Celebrating Elazar Sontag's Birthday with a Williamsburg Grub Street Diet at Buka!

Elazar Sontag, Bon Appétit's restaurant editor, is diving back into the role with a grub street diet, from morning fitness classes to field-trips to Brooklyn's legendary restaurants like Buka in Williamsburg. He marks his birthday with a commemorative wing-party.

Tantalizing Tastes of Williamsburg: An Inside Look at the 2023 KFWE and Its Culinary Offerings

The 2023 KFWE featured a plethora of favorite foodie bites such as Elegant Dessert's Caramel Hazelnut Chocolate Log, Marani's Georgian Lula with Basmati and Tkemali, Marble & Grain's Prime Ribeye with Truffle Mashed Potatoes, Pizza Biza's Pastrami Pizza, Pint n' Pies' Lotus Ice Cream Pie, Wall Street Grill's Crispy Rice Bar with Spicy Tuna, and Crave Sourdough's Sourdough Bread with Assorted Toppings, which were sampled at the popular event in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

The Windy City Strikes Williamsburg: Chicago-Style Hot Dogs Take New York

New York is embracing Chicago-style hot dogs to an extent, with restaurants like Glizzy's in Williamsburg serving Sabrett dogs instead of the traditional Vienna Beef franks, while Dog Day Afternoon and Bobbi's Italian Beef have made a name for themselves by offering faithful renditions of the iconic Chicago dish.

Exploring the Epicurean Delights of Williamsburg: A Tour of South Street Seaport's Top Restaurants

South Street Seaport extending from Jackson Street near the Williamsburg Bridge to Whitehall Street at Manhattan’s southernmost point is home to some of the best restaurants such as Cowgirl Sea-Horse, The Fulton, Momofuku Ssäm Bar, Fresh Salt, Barbalu Restaurant and The Paris Café, offering a variety of food, drinks, and entertainment.

Williamsburg's Suzume Offers Diverse Dining Experiences With Expansion Across New York City

Jill Salazar Jose, Sam Barron, and Jill Cuticello of Suzume Williamsburg are expanding their offerings with Fat Rabbit Diner in Fort Greene, while Amadou Ly of former Tribeca favorite Arcade Bakery is bringing ALF Bakery to Chelsea Market this spring and estemed udon restaurant Raku is expanding next door in the East Village.

🏠 Real Estate

Construction on 11-Story Office Building in DUMBO Historic District Reaches Halfway Point, 6-Story Rental Property in Jersey City Approved by Williamsburg-Based LLC

More:

Construction of 29 Jay Street, an 11-story office building in Brooklyn's DUMBO Historic District developed by Jay Street Office LLC and designed by Marvel Architects, has reached the halfway point, and a six-story rental property at 316 Forrest Street in the Jackson Hill section of Jersey City, developed by an anonymous LLC based in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, has been approved.

NYC's Outer Boroughs Flourishing Despite Economic Turmoil: New Development Projects Emerge in Williamsburg and Bushwick

In spite of unfavorable economic conditions, condo projects are still springing up in the outer boroughs, with notable projects in Williamsburg and Bushwick. Developers such as Jeremy Armstrong and Matthew Bristol have launched projects to meet demand, offering a range of prices for studio and two bedroom units.

Exploring Black History in Williamsburg: The Black Artists + Designers Guild Mural Project

Elon Musk has partnered with real estate developer Lennar to construct a 110-home Project Amazing neighborhood outside of Austin, while in Williamsburg, the Black Artists + Designers Guild has commissioned a mural in honor of Black History Month.

Limiting Amazon Warehouse Siting in Williamsburg and Beyond: Addressing Environmental Racism in NYC Council Zoning Amendments

Elected officials on the New York City Council have proposed zoning amendments to limit the siting of last-mile warehouses, including those run by Amazon, in communities of color like Williamsburg, Bushwick, and Ridgewood. This is in response to the truck traffic and air and noise pollution created by the proliferation of these warehouses that has resulted in environmental racism.

Exploring Affordable Coliving in Williamsburg: A Vibrant Community for New Arrivals

Coliving is an affordable and convenient housing solution suitable for college students, young professionals, and new city residents. It is found in cities such as New York City, Brooklyn, and Philadelphia, with neighborhoods such as Williamsburg providing a vibrant community for those looking for a unique experience.

Winning the NYC Apartment Game in Williamsburg: A Guide

Securing a NYC apartment is like the Hunger Games, but with some tips, like starting your search early, being flexible with rent, considering professional help, and being ready to act quickly, especially in hot spots like Williamsburg, you can increase your chances of success.

🗳️ Politics

Mayor Adams and De Blasio Respond to Digital Divide Following Wi-Fi Cut in Williamsburg

The MTA's move last month to cut off free Wi-Fi services on New York City buses without proper discussion drew criticism from Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez, as the routes with highest usage served communities of color, such as Williamsburg. Mayor Eric Adams and Bill de Blasio have both worked to increase free public internet, in response to the digital divide.

Exploring Civil Court Judicial Candidates at Williamsburg Forum Hosted by Brooklyn Democrats

The Brooklyn Democratic Party hosted their first-ever Community Forum for Civil Court Judicial Candidates last week in Williamsburg, giving the public a chance to learn more about the seven candidates vying for four open spots on the bench. The forum was moderated by Dana Rachlin, who is the chair of the party's Ad-Hoc Judiciary Committee.

NYPD Commissioner Under Fire: Williamsburg Charter High Shooting Prompts New Security Measures

More:

NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell was recently interrogated by kids at the Harlem Children's Day event, while NYC principals are set to hold weekly meetings with NYPD precinct commanders in order to stem out-of-school violence, following two students and a security guard being shot outside Williamsburg Charter High School.

Honoring Heroes of Harlem and Williamsburg: "Detective Wilbert Mora St." Officially Dedicated in Williamsburg

The City Council passed a bill honoring slain police officer Wilbert Mora, union official Eddie Kay, Burger King cashier Kristal Bayron-Nieves, and 10-year-old Clifford Glover, and naming streets in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and Harlem after them. The legislation includes Detective Wilbert Mora St. in Williamsburg.

From Williamsburg to New York City: The Struggle of Asylum Seeking Families for Support

Asylum-seeking families bused to New York City are finding limited support as the city faces deep budget cuts; for example, The United Federation of Teachers and the American Federation of Teachers sponsored a book giveaway at P.S. 33 in Williamsburg to help marginalised asylum seekers, yet many are still in need of considerable support.

âś… What Happened

KAWS: The Williamsburg-Based Icon Shaping Graffiti Culture Around the World

KAWS, the highest-grossing living artist, hails from Jersey City and began his now-global art empire with Companion figures that pay homage to 1990s graffiti culture. After attending the School of Visual Arts in New York City, the artist modeled the iconic figures off of the classic Mickey Mouse cartoon and now calls Williamsburg, Brooklyn home.

Kevin Devine: 20 Years of Musical Magic in Williamsburg and Beyond

After 20 years, Kevin Devine celebrates his long-standing career in Bedford-Stuyvesant and Williamsburg, where he's been "Brooklyn boy born and raised" since 1994 and performing with bands like My Chemical Romance and Yeah Yeah Yeahs. His journey through genres and across continents, coupled with consistent musical quality, has earned him a lifetime of loyal fans.

👩‍🎓 Education

Exploring Beyond the Boundaries: The Establishment of a Larger Eruv in Williamsburg, Brooklyn

An eruv allowing Orthodox Jews to now push a stroller on the Sabbath has been established in Brooklyn, excluding the largely Satmar Hasidic sect in Williamsburg. This boundary, funded by private donations, has allowed families to explore areas previously not included in smaller eruvim, making it easier to honor the biblical mitzvah of delighting in the Sabbath.

Controversy over Williamsburg Hasidic Schools and Kiryas Joel Village Union Free School District

Created over 30 years ago, the Kiryas Joel Village Union Free School District in Upstate New York receives over $2.4 million a year in public funds, with some going to companies affiliated with the United Talmudical Academy of Kiryas Joel, a Hasidic school organization. This controversy has been ongoing since 2015, when the investigation into whether Hasidic schools, including the one from Williamsburg, Brooklyn, were teaching a basic secular education started.

Celebrating Black Pride and Strength: Lamar Digital Billboards Display Black History Month Mural in Williamsburg

The Black Artists + Designers Guild's wall mural in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn celebrates Black History Month, representing strength, pride and accomplishment, which will be displayed on Lamar digital billboards nationwide throughout February.

đź’° Finance

Hermès Stepping Up Luxury in Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Hermès remains one of the few luxury brands to have topped the $10 billion mark in revenues in 2022, and with their long waiting list and global local strategy, they remain a desirable safe haven even as the world economy undergoes uncertainty. The company continues to expand their reach, notably opening a flagship location in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Real Estate Shifts and Williamsburg Moves: NYC DOT Takes Office in Williamsburg

Last week's real estate industry saw prominent moves such as Doug Harmon & Adam Spies switching to Newmark, Ken Manke joining Colliers, and KLNB securing Lee & Associates' Pierson Kreutzer, John Colan, and Patrick Scanlon. In addition, NYC's Department of Transportation took 156,000 sq ft of office and warehouse space at 101 Varick Avenue in Williamsburg.

🌲 Random

đź‘— Fashion

Vegan Glide Tattooing Lubricant Launches at Atelier Eva in Williamsburg!

Mad Rabbit's Mad Glide Tattooing Lubricant is designed to improve the tattoo experience with a vegan formula, containing sunflower oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, and lavender oil, and was recently launched at Atelier Eva in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

LUAR FW2023 Finds Inspiration in Williamsburg: Oversized Constructions, Mink Coats and Regal Gowns

Raul Lopez' FW2023 LUAR collection, inspired by the people of Williamsburg, NY where he grew up, showcased oversized constructions and an experimental selection of mink coats, technical jackets and regal gold button gowns, as well as elegant loungewear, statement accessories and leather harnesses with wine glasses.

Revamping the Jewelry Shopping Experience: Kendra Scott Unveils New Williamsburg Store Concept

Kendra Scott has been revamping its store concept since 2020 in an attempt to differentiate itself from competitors and make the jewelry-buying experience more welcoming. Part of this includes adding experiential components and local elements, such as the Kendra Scott Sips & Sweets Café in their Woodlands store. Additionally, they also unveiled a store concept with a new theme every four to 12 weeks in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Spectacle of Style: Puppets and Puppets, Gogo Graham, and more Make Grand Debut at Williamsburg Savings Bank for NYFW AW23

More:

New York Fashion Week AW23 featured spectacle-filled looks from Puppets and Puppets, Gogo Graham, Coach, Rodarte, Area and Heron Preston, culminating in Helena Eisenhart's dystopian-inspired presentation at the Williamsburg Savings Bank.

🏀 Sports

Defending Champs and Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic of Williamsburg Highlighted in District 6 Playoff Brackets

The District 6 6A Boys' Playoff bracket will be headlined by defending champion State College and competitor Altoona, while the 4A playoffs feature Central and Johnstown looking to dethrone 2021 4A champion Penn Cambria. Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic of Williamsburg is the favorite to take home the District 6 3A Boys Championship.

Savoring the "Art of the Graphic" in Williamsburg with Scott Lenhardt's Exquisite Snowboard Art

Scott Lenhardt's artwork, spanning over four decades, is showcased at a solo exhibition in the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum in Stowe, highlighting his artwork for Burton Snowboards from 1994-present and showcasing his unique style. His work is also featured at projects such as the "The Art of the Graphic" in Williamsburg.

Soccer in Williamsburg: Develop Your Soccer Skills at Bedstuy Soccer Club and Brooklyn City FC

Brooklynites of all ages looking to compete or develop their skills on the Soccer field can find great programs around the borough, including Albion SC Brooklyn, AYSO Brooklyn, Bedstuy Soccer Club, Brooklyn City FC, and Brooklyn United Academy. For programs in the heart of Williamsburg, check out Bedstuy Soccer Club and Brooklyn City FC.

🍺 Nightlife

Exploring the Music Scene in Williamsburg: An NYC Must-Do!

New York City is renowned for its thriving music scene, which has been a vital part of the city's cultural identity for decades. From the Apollo Theater in Harlem to Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg, music lovers of all genres can explore a range of iconic venues, record stores, and festivals in the city.

Exploring Williamsburg: Jake and George Civeris Go Out for Libations and Laughs!

This week, Jake goes out with comedian George Civeris to try some of the trendiest, Instagram-forward restaurants in Williamsburg. They discuss non-alcoholic beverages, cocktails, wines, and getting caught up on emails and having meetings during their staycation.

🎸 Music & Concerts

Fenne Lily and Christian Lee Hutson to Co-Headline Tour at Music Hall of Williamsburg in Brooklyn

Fenne Lily recently revealed her new single "Dawncolored Horse" from her upcoming album 'Big Picture', and is set to co-headline a tour with Christian Lee Hutson at Music Hall of Williamsburg in Brooklyn on June 2.

Bands Unite for Spring Concerts in Williamsburg - Militarie Gun to Perform at Music Hall of Williamsburg

Rival Schools have announced Soft Blue Shimmer & Jinx for their West Coast shows, Truth Cult & Scarlet for Bowery Ballroom on May 19th and Praise & Somerset Thrower for Music Hall Of Williamsburg on May 20th. Militarie Gun will be performing at all European and UK shows.

Rico Nasty is Coming to the Music Hall of Williamsburg in April!

Rico Nasty has announced dates for a North American tour this spring, kicking off in Toronto in April and closing in Detroit in May. The tour includes a performance at the Music Hall of Williamsburg in Brooklyn, NY on April 19th, with tickets on sale Friday, February 17th.

Surprise Show - Skrillex, Fred Again &Four Tet Coming to Williamsburg's Avant Gardner in May!

Skrillex, Fred Again and Four Tet are hosting a surprise show at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, with tickets already on sale. The trio also recently announced a series of shows in Williamsburg, Brooklyn's Avant Gardner beginning in May.

đźš” Public Safety

Citywide Robbery Spree Strikes Williamsburg, Brooklyn: 2 Suspects Wanted

More:

Police are searching for two suspects after they sprayed a woman with mace and threatened a man with a knife in two attempted robberies in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The suspect is believed to have been responsible for a months-long, citywide spree of thefts involving the stealing of Apple products and other expensive items.

Four-Alarm Fire Causes Devastation in Williamsburg Lumber Building

Four-alarm fire ripped through a Williamsburg building storing lumber on Feb. 21, leading to a NYC five-hour long firefight and causing significant damage to both the one-story and three-story interconnected buildings. The cause of the fire is currently still under investigation.

Tragedy Strikes Williamsburg: 15-Year-Old Subway Surfer Falls off Bridge to His Death

More:
•

A 15-year-old hit his head on a piece of the Williamsburg Bridge in Brooklyn while subway surfing on Monday night, and fell to his death, confirmed by police. This is the latest of several incidents involving teenagers illegally riding atop New York City trains within the past year.

Reducing Battery Fire Risk in New York: Williamsburg Delivery Hub Provides Hope

Due to the growing risk of battery fires in New York, the City Council is considering bills to reduce the risk, while the Workers Justice Project/Los Deliveristas Unidos is working to build a $1.7 million delivery hub in Williamsburg, Brooklyn to help increase safety.

School Security Measures Strengthened Post-Williamsburg Charter High School Shooting

More:
•

The NYC Department of Education has approved a new door locking system for schools to increase security and protect students in the wake of a shooting at Williamsburg Charter High School on Feb. 8 that left three people injured.

Investigation of NYPD Officers' Use of Force at Hewes Street Station in Williamsburg

On Tuesday night in Williamsburg at the Hewes Street Station in the Brooklyn J train, a video captured NYPD officers using pepper-spray on a man and arresting a woman who was filming in the incident. The blog 1010 WINS reported that the Civilian Complaint Review Board has launched an investigation into the use of force.

🤔 Opinion

Bridging the Divide: Rap and Indie Rock Find Common Ground in Williamsburg

More:

Rap venues in Williamsburg, such as Elsewhere and Baby's All Right, have been successful in bridging the divide between rap and indie rock, overcoming historic injustices such as self-segregation, police interference, and even gentrification.

Reviving Romance in Williamsburg: A Night at The William Vale Hotel

After six years of marriage, my husband and I revitalized our relationship by taking mini staycations around New York, including a night at the luxe The William Vale Hotel in Williamsburg. On these short journeys, we got to relax, explore, and be present with each other; a respite from the stress of everyday life.

đź“° In Other News

Daisy the Great Kicks off All You Need Is Time Tour at Music Hall of Williamsburg

Daisy The Great's All You Need Is Time Tour begins April 12th in Allston, MA and makes their final destination at Brooklyn's Music Hall of Williamsburg. They have just released the music video for “I Don’t Wanna Fall” from their new album to commemorate the tour.

Exploring Williamsburg's Troubled History: Walk and Talks Along the BQE this Weekend

Transportation Alternatives will host a series of 'Walk and Talks' along the BQE this weekend, beginning in Williamsburg to educate residents about its troubled history and prompt them to get involved in planning its future.

Capturing the Soul of Williamsburg: Mauricio Gonzalez-Aranda and Andrew Mullen Welcome Guests to The Richardson Bar for 'Bar Talk' Docuseries

Mauricio Gonzalez-Aranda and Andrew Mullen host the docuseries "Bar Talk" at The Richardson Bar in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Every Monday night, a new pair of guests come to the candlelit table to have a conversation that is recorded for posterity and to capture contemporary snapshots of the borough.

From Williamsburg to Flushing: Margaret Sohn's 'Follow the Cyborg' Charting Explorations of Identity

Queens-based musician Margaret Sohn has released their debut album, 'Follow the Cyborg', after writing, recording and producing it in their Williamsburg apartment in 2020 and 2021. By delving into deeper existential questions, Sohn found the freedom to explore their identity, having relocated to Flushing from the more traditional artists' hub of Williamsburg.

Exploring Williamsburg: How Two Trees is Transforming the Waterfront and the City Pays Big for MTA Settlements

The MTA has scaled back plans for new stations in East Harlem as part of its Second Avenue subway project, while Two Trees is reimagining the Williamsburg waterfront. In addition, the city has paid more than $500 million to settle claims involving its own vehicles.

Exploring Marriage and Identity in Anna Ziegler's 'The Wanderers' of Williamsburg

More:

Anna Ziegler's new play The Wanderers, which takes place in Williamsburg, tells the story of two couples, two generations, and two differing approaches to marriage and identity, ultimately leading to both happy and unhappy endings.

Celebrating 35 Years of EstĂşdio Campana in Williamsburg: Nelson-Galt House to Open for Touring

To commemorate the 35th anniversary of Estúdio Campana, Friedman Benda Los Angeles has unveiled “Cine São José”, and Soane Britain has announced plans to open a New York showroom. Meanwhile, Heather Chadduck Hillegas' renovation of the 1695 Nelson-Galt House in Williamsburg is now open for touring.

Did this newsletter help you discover something enjoyable to do? If so, please consider showing your appreciation by treating me to a cup of coffee. Your support helps me continue creating content that you'll love.

Disclosure: This newsletter was curated and edited by a human. We leverage AI technologies to help us discover content and draft the newsletter.