Williamsburg, Brooklyn

These last few months I’ve gotten to know Williamsburg, Brooklyn and I must say that it is always a nice change of pace from Manhattan. Since I teach fitness classes in that area,  I get to explore and discover new places to eat, shop and hang out there on the weekends. The following are a few of my favorite spots:

1. Cafe Colette

The decor is adorable and their avocado toast is intense yet simple… ( i know, the oxymoron). This is a cute place for a late lunch with a friend on a Sunday afternoon.

2. Cafe Mogador

This is one of my favorite restaurants in Williamsburg and I recently found out that they have a location on the Lower East Side! Food is perfectly seasoned, setting is very cute and prices are affordable (chicken kebab skewers served with salad, grilled vegetables, rice and tatziki comes at $18.50). All-around win! Keep in mind that there is often a wait to get a table. They’re considerate enough to have a nice little greenhouse in the back of the restaurant to hang out in while you’re waiting to be seated.

3. Shelter

This place feels like a hip and cozy tavern. My friend and I came here over the summer and ate outside. I had a pizza with a glass of rose and we shared some olives. This past weekend, another girlfriend of mine and I had brunch there. Solid burger with fries with no wait time? Yes please!

4. Midnights

I stumbled upon this bar/lounge one night a few years back and can’t wait to go back this summer. Dimly lit and vibey, this is a cool place for a sexy date or nightcap. Oh and if you’re feeling a little basic (no judgement here!) try their frozen rose that comes in a gold pineapple. Feels like summer!

5. Freehold

I’ve been to Freehold several times for birthdays and even a pre-wedding reception. I don’t really know how else to describe it other than that it’s a cool place. I know, riveting description. But it really is COOL! It was made to look like a hotel lobby and even has an outdoor ping-pong table.

6. Kinfolk

I’ve only been to Kinfolk once but I remember having so much fun. The space is not particularly large but the atmosphere is chill with great music.