Growing Together

The Grand Street BID is proud to highlight Growing Together, a new mural painted by local artist Vanesa Álvarez Díaz. Located outside of Tribeca Pediatrics on 622 Grand Street, this mural was painted with the help of the community and students from PS018. Vanesa hosted a community mural painting party, where community members and students helped create this beautiful piece of artwork depicting unity. The BID was glad to have assisted Vanesa with logistics and during the paint party.

Growing Together was funded entirely through the Brooklyn Arts Fund, a grant from Brooklyn Arts Council.

From the artist:

Growing together is a community mural project that seeks to empower and honor the East Williamsburg neighborhood in Brooklyn. A family neighborhood with a lot of history, which is standing up to gentrification.

I am beyond grateful for the community which I am part. Gracias! 🙏🏼

- Vanesa Álvarez Díaz

Get to Know Grand: Grand Morelos

Get to know Grand Morelos! Grand Morelos is a Mexican Diner that’s been at 727 Grand Street since 1996. Grand Morelos was at first a Greek restaurant, until Co-owner Raul Gonzalez stepped in to bring flavors from Morelos, Mexico to the neighborhood. Serving traditional Mexican food alongside American diner classics, Raul’s key to success is by “keeping every customer happy”. From chilaquiles to cheeseburgers, Grand Morelos has been serving up delicious meals on Grand Street for 28 years. Raul Gonzalez caught up with us to talk about his time on Grand Street and what Grand Morelos has to offer:

Produced by the Grand Street BID in partnership with OWLEY Studios.

Kaew Jao Jorm has arrived to 800 Grand Street

Chor Muang, or Royal Flower Dumplings

Kaew Jao Jorm has arrived at 800 Grand Street! Kaew Jao Jorm is a new Thai restaurant on Grand Street focusing on Royal Thai cuisine, inspired by the cuisine served to King Rama V who ruled from 1868 - 1910. Royal Thai cuisine is seldom found in NYC, and some dishes are rare even in Bangkok. Kaew Jao Jorm prides itself on these dishes, offering Royal Thai dishes like its Chor Muang, or Royal Flower dumplings, made with tender rice-based dough that is naturally dyed blue with a sweet-savory chicken and peanut filling. Other dishes include its Run Juan Curry, a Royal Thai coconut milk free curry with beef, lemongrass, shallot, shrimp paste, fish sauce, kaffir lime leaves, and basil leaves and elevated versions of Thai classics such as Pad Thai.

Sam, co-owner, wants his customers to feel like “they’re entering into another world” when they step into Kaew Jao Jorm - more specifically, the royal dining hall of the Thai Palace in the late 19th century. Yellow floral chandeliers hang from the ceilings, surrounded by a lime green brick wall on one side and a brown wooden paneled wall on the other. A shrine to King Rama V sits inside one of the walls, with his portrait centered and draped with colorful multi-patterned curtains. All of the art and decor comes from Thailand, and all of the ceramics are handmade.

Co-owner Sam isn’t new to the industry; he’s been working in Thai restaurants for over five years, and owns another location in Westchester. He opened Kaew Jao Jorm to introduce Royal Thai cuisine to the neighborhood, noting that it's much different than what most Thai restaurants offer. He opened on Grand Street because of its proximity to different modes of transportation and its welcoming community. He says he already is starting to get regulars from folks in the neighborhood and feels supported. He loves the challenge of running a restaurant, including all the problem solving it comes with. From ordering kitchen supplies to planning a large backyard structure, Sam finds joy in all of it.

Swing by Kaew Jao Jorm on 800 Grand Street to try their Royal Thai cuisine!

Welcome La Oficina to 759 Grand Street

Welcome La Oficina to 759 Grand Street! La Oficina is a Latino dive bar, existing at the intersection of punk rock and Latino culture. Owner Julian Villegas dreamed of opening up a bar that would cater to both his Colombian heritage and his love for punk rock - achieving that with La Oficina. This comes in the form of salsa nights, punk rock nights - and nights featuring both at the same time. The one constant is “it's always a good time”, as Julian puts it. On the weekends they host either a DJ or a themed party; and on Thursdays La Oficina’s backroom turns into a Latino comedy club, with performances in mostly Spanish.

The bar is adorned with a mix of punk rock and Latino aesthetics - the artwork all being sourced from friends of Julian’s. The decor is adorned with a vibrant and wide range of art; ranging from neon backlit skulls to portraits of Pablo Escobar. There are also a handful of funny pieces of art - including a portrait of Tom Cruise (slide 4) and references to “The Office” (La Oficina’s English namesake). 

Julian Villegas, Owner

Julian worked as a chef for 13 years, including time at Michelin starred Eleven Madison Park and critically acclaimed restaurant Kat & Theo. His first job in NYC was at Eleven Madison Park, where he learned English on the job. After a month he was promoted, and eventually received high praise from the head chef calling him the best line cook he’s ever worked with. After Eleven Madison Park Julian had stints at several other restaurants, even working in the Hamptons. Julian worked as a chef for 13 years, including time at Michelin starred Eleven Madison Park and critically acclaimed restaurant Kat & Theo. He brings that experience to the menu, which offers Colombian and Mexican dishes alongside some bar staples. Taquitos, Salchipapas, Elote, and Quesadillas are some of the dishes La Oficina is offering.

Eventually, Julian transitioned from the kitchen to the bar - wanting to have more time in his life to spend with his family. Back in Bogota, Colombia, Julian used to run a bar for a handful of years - this combined kitchen and bar experience is brought to the table with La Oficina. Julian’s favorite aspect of running La Oficina is sharing all of his knowledge of both the bar and the kitchen with his staff. “It’s exciting to see people agree with you when you know what you’re doing”. He places an emphasis on building trust and communication with his team, and wants customers to know that. Julian wants folks who visit La Oficina to notice the professionalism and kindness of the team, and look forward to returning. Swing by 759 Grand Street to check out La Oficina, the neighborhood’s newest bar!

A Guide to Summer Restaurant Week on Grand Street 2024

Ammazzacaffè backyard

Monday, August 12th marks the beginning of Restaurant Week, Grand Street’s semi-annual restaurant event! From August 12th to August 25th, you’ll have the opportunity to try 13 of Grand Street’s restaurants both new and old at lower than ever prices. 13 of the best eats in Williamsburg are offering 3-course prix fixe dinners at discounted rates from $25 to $35 in North Brooklyn’s annual celebration of local cuisine. With all these offerings on 6 blocks, it might be difficult to make a decision. This guide is here to give you all the answers to why you should visit each participating restaurant on Grand Street, and what you can order for the best experience. Each of the following restaurants has special Restaurant Week menus, so just ask if you don’t see one.

As always, take a picture of your Restaurant Week experience and post with #DineonGrand for a chance to win $50 to a Grand Street BID business of your choice.

Follow @grandstreetbid on Instagram and Facebook for the most up-to-date information on the event!

Critically Acclaimed on Grand

All pasta at Ammazzacaffè is made in-house

AMMAZZACAFFÈ—$35

702 Grand Street — menu

Winner of a coveted Bib Gourmand title from Micheline Guide, Ammazzacaffè has already built its reputation for affordable fine dining at its best. Be sure to try the Tartare crostino with sea trout, Lettuga salad with Botarga, and sunchokes as an appetizers. For your entree, try the Reginette—pasta with pork shoulder ragu — it’s a perfect dish. Finish the night with their daily dessert offering for the perfect date or special night out on Grand Street.

Lamb Chops from BK Jani

BK JANI—$35

679 Grand Street — menu

There are a lot of burger joints in Williamsburg, but only BK Jani’s burgers come with mint chutney as a sauce option. Featured on Infatuation’s Best Restaurants in Williamsburg, you can’t go wrong with a burger here. They’re offering Two Lamb Chops to start, then any burger of your choosing. We recommend The Jani Burger; ½ pound of custom blend ground beef, cooked medium rare, mint chutney at the bottom, grilled tomato and a touch of raita. Included in their special is a soda or one of their house drinks.

Grand Street Classics

GRAND MORELOS—$29.50

727 Grand Street — menu

A Grand Street staple, Grand Morelos has been with the neighborhood day and night for over 27 years. The late-night diner & bakery has seen us all at our finest and not-so-fine hours. The Grand Morelos bakery is also one of the better-kept secrets of our food scene, so take advantage. Guacamole & Chips is our go-to appetizer, but we also recommend the Steak Nachos. If you’re extra hungry, the Mole Poblano for your entree will fill you if the app didn’t, but try to save room for the Strawberry Cheesecake. Once you’ve fallen in love with Grand Morelos stop back in for affordable cookies & doughnuts from the bakery and amazing iced coffee.

Dar525

DAR525—$28

525 Grand Street — menu

A Grand Street classic, Dar525 has been serving up delicious Syrian cuisine for over 12 years. Dar525 is offering extreme value to Restaurant Week’s with four courses instead of the usual three. You can start with hummus or babaganouj, but they’re offering other apps as well. Next you can choose from kibbeh or a cheese and parsley roll. For the main course you’ve got a variety of protein choices including the vegan falafel and the not-so vegan chicken shawarma. Top your dinner off with baklava or basbousa for a fantastic four-course meal at amazing value.

THE CLONARD—$25

506 Grand Street — menu

Known for their lager and bar food staples, The Clonard has only been on Grand Street since 2021 but already feel like a neighborhood go-too. They’re offering bar staples Mozzarella Sticks and Jalapeño Poppers to get the appetite going. Then you can enjoy an 8oz burger, with the option of going for a Beyond Burger if you’re looking for a vegan option. Enjoy a Clonard Lager, or a glass of Pinot Grigio if you’re feeling classy, with your meal for the full bar eatery experience.

Desy’s Meatballs

DESY’S CLAM BAR—$35

672 Grand Street — menu

Desy’s Clam Bar is an old school Italian restaurant with history dating back to the 1920’s. It shares chefs and recipes from the now shuttered “Little Charlie’s Clam Bar”, a well known restaurant located in Little Italy. We recommend starting with the Fried Calamari, or Mozzarella Fritta for a fried and savory start. Follow it up with Desy’s Meatballs, Chicken Parmesan with your choice of pasta or the Penne ala Vodka and finish off your meal with a sweet slice of Tres Leches.

Steak and Pupusas from Bahia

BAHIA—$25

690 Grand Street — menu

Bahia has been on Grand Street for over 20 years, serving up pupusas and other delicious Salvadorian dishes. We recommend you start with their famous Pupusas; you can choose from a wide variety of options but some favorites include the revueltas pupusa stuffed with pork, refried beans, and cheese, or jalapeño pupusas .For the main entrée enjoy their delicious Carne Asada, Pollo Sorpresa, or Tilapia al Sarten. A glass of either Sangria or Wine is included in your meal, alongside a delicious slice of Amaretto Cheese Cake to finish.

RYUJIN—$25

513 Grand Street — menu

This Grand Street staple has been serving Japanese comfort food to the neighborhood for over 13 years. Something about the ramen from Ryujin leaves us stuffed after every bowl. Now add an appetizer and dessert to the mix to really make the most of a 3 course dinner. Keep it light with your app so go with the Pork bun or the Edamame. You can choose from 6 different options of ramen bowl, but our favorite is the Sapporo Miso Bowl. Finally, the meal is paired with your choice of Beer, Mochi Ice Cream, or their homemade Early Gray Plum Wine. The jury is out here so we’ll leave that choice to you.

Filling Favorites!

Curry from Thip Osha

THIP OSHA—$30

795 Grand Street — menu

This Thai spot nearby the Grand Street L station always feels cozy. With a diverse prix fixe menu, Thip Osha has altogether 50 combinations to choose from. There is surely something that will please everyone from curry to noodles to fried rice. Out of all of those choices, our favorites are the Thom Yum soup to start and the Pad Thai noodle with your protein of choice for the main entree. You can’t go wrong with the delicious Coconut Custard for dessert. Stop by this small spot for big flavors.

MAD FOR CHICKEN—$21

617 Grand Street — menu

There’s no better place to go for classic Korean Fried Chicken than Grand Street’s very own Mad For Chicken! And with the most affordable Restaurant Week special by far at $21, Mad for Chicken is a must visit. Swing by and start with their 4-Piece Dumpling to get you appetized. For the main, we recommend their Chicken and Fries Combo: you’re gonna go Mad for this Chicken. If you’re feeling a different vibe, their Bulgogi over Rice is also fantastic. Alongside your meal you can enjoy a glass of Sangria or a beer.

LA CHACRA—$32

613 Grand Street — menu

La Chacra’s got traditional Peruvian cuisine straight from the “Chacra” or farm in Spanish. Our most recent Get to Know Grand story covered the awesome story of La Chacra, and now they’re here for their first Restaurant Week! Begin your meal with a delicous Ceviche de Pescado if you’re feeling seafood, or their Papa Rellena: a golden fried potato stuffed with beef stew, onions, olives, and eggs. For the main entree we reccomend the Lomo Saltado, strips of skirt steak sauteed with onions, tomatoes in a soy sauce served with fries and white rice, or the Arroz con Mariscos, a classic Peruvian Paella. Enjoy your dinner alongside either a beer or Punta Sal Margarita.

A tostada from Los Tacos Mcondo

LOS TACOS MCONDO—$28

502 Grand Street — menu

Los Tacos Mcondo is a classic taqueria, offering some awesome deals this time around. They are cash only - so make sure to come prepared! Start with their Corn on the Cob for a fun bite before you dig into their wide variety of main courses: Burritos, Nachos, Tostadas, Quesadillas, Enchilladas, or a Queso Fundido with Chorizo. You wont find this many options at most other participating restaurants! End your meal with some refreshing and delicious fruit, with your choice of a Mexican Mango with lime, salt, and chili powder or Churros that also come with a side of fruit.

CARNEVAL—$35

507 Grand Street — menu

Carneval is inspired by the owners’ own cultures and carnivals from countries they’ve visited around the world. This comes in the form of a wide variety of different cuisines all fused into one. We reccommen you start with Maduro Trio, a sweet plantain basket filled with tropical cheese and shredded beef topped with “El Ninja sauce”. Follow it up with Dominican style Carneval Mofongo, that comes with garlic shrimp. Alternatively, go with the classic Ravioli Pasta. Finish your meal with either a delicious Sweet Pear in Red Wine, served with a side of vanilla ice cream, or Nutella Crepes if you’re in a chocolate mood.

Summer Restaurant Week returns to Grand Street 2024

We are ecstatic to announce the return of Restaurant Week to Grand Street! Restaurant Week offers fine dining, quick eats, and drinks for awesome prix fixe prices. 13 restaurants are participating this time around, showcasing the excellent dining and nightlife scene on Grand Street. The two week celebration of local cuisine begins on Monday, August 12th and runs through Sunday, August 25th.

Check out our comprehensive Restaurant Week Guide for tips on how to navigate the event.

Stop by at any participating location to get in on discount dining offers exclusive to Grand Street—and only during Restaurant Week. Just ask for a restaurant week menu when seated. You can find the full list of the 13 participants and pricing below. Prices at restaurants range from $25 to $35 and apply only to sit-down dinners, starting at 5PM — tax and tip not included.

For this season’s Restaurant Week event we have 13 restaurants joining in on the fun. Many of our staple restaurants are returning to participate this time around and some, like Grand Morelos and Ryujin, are featuring exciting updates to their menus. We’re pleased to welcome back Desy’s Clam Bar back to Restaurant Week. Desy’s Clam Bar, a longstanding business in the neighborhood, last participated in 2019. Desy’s Clam Bar offers traditional Italian cooking, with an emphasis on seafood — and more specifically, clams!

BK Jani is returning with their renowned burgers that have been spotlighted on Infatuation NYC’s best restaurants in Williamsburg list. Grand Street classics like Thip Osha, Carneval, and Los Tacos Mcondo are also participating again with many Restaurant Week’s under their belts. Restaurant Week pricing ranges from $20-35, with a variety of different cuisines at great value at each price point. At a steal of a price of $35, Michelin Bib Gourmand winning Ammazzacaffè is offering fine dining Italian cuisine. Dar525 and Bahia are both offering a fourth course, bringing amazing value to the table.

Be sure to snap a picture of you, your meal, or your friends on your night dining out with the #DineOnGrand for the opportunity to win $50 to a Grand Street BID restaurant of your choice!

Follow @grandstreetbid on Instagram & Facebook for the most up-to-date information on the event.

Get to Know Grand: Nieves Latin Dance Studio

Get to know Nieves Latin Dance Studio! Nieves Latin Dance Studio has been on 670 Grand Street since 2012. Owner Wil Nieves has been teaching salsa for over 12 years, and has studied music theory for even longer. The studio is open to people of all experience levels, from beginner to expert. Nieves Latin Dance Studio isn’t just a place to dance - it’s a place to make friends, meet new people, and build community. Beginners can swing by the studio at anytime for a free trial. Get to know Nieves Latin Dance Studio and pickup a few salsa moves in the process:

Produced by the Grand Street BID in partnership with OWLEY Studios.

Un Verano en Nueva York

The Grand Street BID is excited to debut Un Verano en Nueva York, a new mural we have commissioned on the south-west corner of Grand Street and Humboldt Street. Artist Huetek, a Brooklyn-based graphic designer, illustrator, & musician, brought to life what a summer day in New York might look like here on Grand Street. Supporting Huetek on this project are the Grand Street BID and the art production & mural company Dripped On Productions. Photography by OWLEY Studios.

Huetek was inspired by a visit to the wall, where he saw folks in the neighborhood playing dominoes. The wall features dominoes being played on a table featuring some of the different countries of origin of our neighborhood. The dominoes fall off the table, turning larger and more realistic while swinging by the Grand and Humboldt Street signs. They end up on the side of a Piragua man shaving ice, bringing life and color to the community. The perspective perfectly compliments the domino table on the left side, creating balance.  A blue and purple floral pattern adorn the backdrop of this scene, evoking feelings of (the aptly named) Un Verano en Nueva York, or A Summer in New York. 

UN verano en nueva york

Check out behind-the-scenes photos and video of the making of Un Verano en Nueva York. Huetek worked on the project during his time off from his full time job at the airport. Coming early in the morning and staying till the late afternoon, he managed to complete the mural in only 8 days.

Photography + Videography by: OWLEY Studios

Get to Know Grand: Skin By Sol

Get to know Skin Care by Sol ! Skin Care by Sol is a facial treatment and hair removal spa located at 527 Grand Street. Owner Soledad Flores has been on Grand Street since January, and has operated as a licensed esthetician for over 12 years. Sol offers a variety of different treatments including: facials, skin rejuvenation, microdermabrasion, waxing, laser hair removal, and so much more. As an experienced esthetician, Sol is on top of the ever developing skincare world - she makes it a point to research new methods and products whenever they arrive. 

Sol had operated a studio in Greenpoint before coming to Grand Street. She had decided she wanted to move her business here after a conversation with her hairstylist, Hair by Catherine, a hairstylist that’s been on Grand Street since 2020. Sol says her favorite aspects of Grand Street are the walkability and proximity to the L & G, and the friendliness of the neighborhood. Sol loves to see people’s smiles after improving their skin. She says it makes her happy to see people glow, and that it feels therapeutic for her to use her hands to help people. 

As a special summer offer, Skin Care by Sol is offering 15% off one facial treatment for first time customers! This offer is available till August 1st, 2024. Swing by 527 Grand Street for a facial treatment from Skin Care by Sol!

Grand Street Community Cleanup Day 2024

The Grand Street BID is proud to announce our Community Cleanup Day on Grand Street in partnership with the office of Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez. Join us on Saturday, June 22nd from 11AM - 2PM to help cleanup our community! We’ll be picking up trash, cleaning our tree pits, and beautifying our neighborhood. Meet us at the corner of Manhattan Ave and Grand Street - We’ll have cleaning supplies and t-shirts for you. After that, join us for a happy hour and pizza on Grand Street!

Our plan is to start at opposite ends of the district, Bushwick Ave and Union Ave, and have each group clean towards each other until they meet in the middle. This is a family-friendly event so feel free to bring children. We can't wait to have Grand Street looking and feeling its best and to connect with our neighbors while doing it.

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez will also be hosting an E-Waste recycling event on Saturday, June 29th from 10AM - 2PM alongside El Puente Williamsburg. Click here for more information on their E-Waste recycling event.

Adopt-A-Tree Summer 2024

Adopt-A-Tree has returned! We are excited to bring back our volunteer-based, tree stewardship program. Our tree pits are finally in bloom and we’re looking for neighbors who are interested in adopting a tree!

There are over 85 tree pits in our district (on just 6 blocks!)—and the process of planting perennials has been years in the making. It started five years ago with funding from the Borough President and City Council, allowing the BID to place tree guards in our previously unprotected tree pits. With each new tree guard installed, the BID is able to team with The Horticultural Society of New York to plant perennials native to Brooklyn.

Volunteers are asked to water their tree beds weekly. All of the plants in our tree pits enjoy full or partial sun, are drought tolerant, and do well in sandy or gravelly soils. Although these plants are less temperamental than most, it is important to keep an eye on them and provide water during periods of drought throughout the Summer.

Volunteers will be asked to attend one short introduction session hosted by the BID. The session includes learning about the pits, tips on what you can do to best care for them, and materials and goodies to help you along the way. The introduction session will be on Monday, June 10th at 6PM.

Please fill out this form to participate. We can’t wait to welcome all of our newcomers and to reconnect with our previous volunteers! Pit assignment will be first come first serve, and we will be giving priority of tree pit locations to our returning volunteers.

Grand Street BID Welcomes Francesca as new Executive Director

The Grand Street BID is proud to announce the arrival of our new Executive Director, Francesca Bruce!

Francesca Bruce, Executive Director

Yaz and Francesca

Francesca, a native New Yorker, is passionate about empowering communities. After college and several years teaching abroad, she returned to pursue a Master's in Urban Planning at CUNY Hunter College, to further the cause of social and environmental justice. While studying, she managed a small business, worked with the Port Authority of NY NJ, and finally with the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, providing pandemic assistance to under-resourced small businesses. In 2022, she became a Borough Planner at NYC Department of City Planning, to develop a deeper understanding of the policies that shape our neighborhoods.

Missing hands-on community work, however, she leapt at the chance to serve the Grand Street BID alongside a rich tapestry of friends, neighbors, and small businesses. She looks forward to lending her passion to Grand Street's mission, and to helping build a safer, more beautiful and inclusive community.

In her spare time, Francesca practices yoga, painting, pottery, cooking, volunteers in her local community garden, and is a devoted dog parent. She loves meeting new people, and hopes you'll stop by the office and say hello!

Get to Know Grand : UXMA Williamsburg

Get to know UXMA Williamsburg! United Xtreme Martials Arts is a Tae Kwan Doe Gym that’s been at 653 Grand Street for over 17 years. Led by Masters Olga and Fabricio Rodriguez, UXMA teaches students of all ages; with their youngest student being 2 and oldest 69! UXMA focuses on teaching its students more than just fighting techniques - students learn about discipline, respect, and what it means to be apart of a community. Get to know UXMA and the wonderful people that make up this cornerstone of our community:

Produced by the Grand Street BID in partnership with OWLEY Studio.

Alita Cafe Sustainability Report

Happy Earth Day! To celebrate, we’re highlighting Alita Cafe - a cafe in the BID that focuses on sustainable business practices from the top down. Jacob Marre is a barista at Alita Cafe and SEA who’s published a report on Alita’s sustainability practices. The report (linked here and posted below) outlines Alita’s commitment to reducing its emissions, examines Alita’s resource usage, and gives suggestions on how to improve even further.

We caught up with Jacob and Alejandro Ceballos, co-owner of Alita Cafe, to talk about how Alita works to lower their carbon footprint.

Jacob Marre, SEA and barista at Alita Cafe

Jacob is a certified SEA (Sustainability Excellence Associate) and is passionate about sustainable business practices. His report goes into immense detail about every aspect of Alita Cafe’s sustainable business practices, going so far as to report that Alita used 537 gallons of water per day. This is equivalent to 4.5 New Yorkers, which is impressively low water usage for a cafe. After a staff meeting in January 2024 about water usage, employees have been even more conscious of water usage. Jacob makes a handful of suggestions to improve sustainability at Alita; one being composting Alita’s coffee grounds. He states that composting the coffee ground would not only reduce Alita’s total waste, but also support local parks and gardens.

Jacob’s report concludes that most of Alita’s emissions come from their suppliers, even when working with more eco-friendly partners. He emphasizes the importance of collective bargaining amongst businesses to reduce suppliers carbon footprints, saying:

“Small and medium-sized businesses often lack sufficient bargaining power when trying to get suppliers to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, an essential step in reducing their own scope 3 emissions. I think that membership to organizations such as Grand Street BID, New York State Small Business Development Center, and Small Business Administration, among others, can allow many small businesses to band together and, through their combined purchasing power, affect positive change up and down value chains worldwide”.

Paolo (left) and Alejandro (right), co-owners of Alita Cafe

Owners Alejandro Cabellos and Paolo Maliksi work to reduce their emissions at every level, starting from where they source their coffee beans all the way down to the straws and utensils. Paolo works to source coffee exclusively from farms with eco-responsible growing practices that farm efficiently and sustainably. Due to Alita’s small space they are unable to offer ceramic mugs; Alejandro works to mitigate this by having all of their utensils, cups and straws be biodegradable. Agave straws and utensils, eco-friendly paper goods, and the option to fill your own thermos are all available at Alita.

Alejandro attributes Alita’s success in sustainability to a few key business practices. As mentioned earlier, the sourcing of coffee and use of sustainable utensils is important; but Alejandro also talks about taking it upon himself to reduce emissions on a daily basis. This comes in the form of smaller steps that when added up have a large impact on Alita’s emissions.

Alita sources their own pastries, choosing to make everything from scratch in house as opposed to buying them wholesale. This eliminates the emissions a truck would produce delivering them. Alita uses energy efficient appliances, reducing their energy consumption. They opt to use cloth aprons instead of disposable, Alejandro washing them with his own laundry. Rags are used instead of paper towels, and employees bring their own thermoses and mugs to drink beverages from. Alejandro shares information on cost and waste usage with his employees, encouraging them to come up with their own ways of being sustainable and working together as a team.

Alejandro encourages other businesses to take the initiative to be more environmentally sustainable in their own ways, in both daily work and on a larger scale with suppliers.

Grand Street Passport Prizes

We hope you’ve been enjoying your Grand Street Passport so far and racking up stamps at your favorite eateries and bars on Grand Street! We’re excited to announce Passport prizes, where you can redeem your stamped passport for prizes:

5 stamps: Raffle Ticket, Tote Bag

10 stamps: 2 Raffle Tickets, Tote Bag, Merch Item

15 stamps: 3 Raffle Tickets, Tote Bag, 2 Merch Items, $25 Gift Card

22 stamps: 4 Raffle Tickets, Tote Bag, 3 Merch Items, $100 Gift Card

Raffle Tickets: Chance to win a $100 Gift Card to a business of your choice in the Grand Street BID.

The Grand Street Passport is active till April 30th, 2024. Passport prizes can be claimed till May 31st, 2024. Raffle winner will be announced on June 1st, 2024.

To claim prizes, contact us on Instagram @grandstreetbid or email us at info@grandstreetbk.org to schedule a time to visit our office with your passport book. (you get to keep the book!)

São Paulo Artists Paint Mural on Grand Street and Manhattan Ave

Artists Senk11 and Super have collaborated on a new mural on Grand Street and Manhattan Avenue! This beautiful mural sits on the side of Big Apple 20 Deli on 669 Grand Street. Both Super and Senk11 are artists originating from São Paulo and longtime friends. They’ve known each other for years but have seldom collaborated - till this piece. The mural has inspiration from both São Paulo and Brooklyn, depicting a woman wearing the Brazilian national soccer jersey, while surrounded by the L train.

The artists mixed their artistic styles together to bring this mural to life, using distinct elements from their respective work. Senk11’s contribution to the mural comes in the form of the woman and two children, while Super worked on the geometric shapes that serve as a backdrop for the mural.

Super lives in the neighborhood, a short distance away from the mural. He says he loves the neighborhood for its people and the restaurants, saying it “the best place to live his life”. He says the closest comparison to Williamsburg in São Paulo is Vila Madalena, with its rich history of artistic galleries and graffiti. Super takes pride in his Geometric art, saying that his favorite aspect of painting murals is taking in his work on larger-scaled projects after he’s finished them. Check out Super and Senk11’s Instagram pages to keep up with their art!

Photos by Bryan Hernandez.

Executive Director Erin Piscopink Says Goodbye

Dear Grand Street Community,

After nearly six years with the Grand Street BID, I am stepping down as Executive Director at the end of this month. I have deeply enjoyed my time both with the organization and as part of this community. I am so proud of all we’ve accomplished together! I am particularly proud of the work we have done in the public realm. Our supplemental sanitation program remains one of our core services; we have made great strides in planting and caring for the flowers in our tree beds; and our public arts programming reflects our neighborhood while adding beauty to the district.

I am confident that Yaz Mansi, our Community Engagement Manager, will continue to serve the neighborhood well under new leadership and know that our Board of Directors maintains their commitment to caring for the community through their search for the new Executive Director and their ongoing stewardship of the organization. Please feel free to share the job description with your networks or anyone you believe may be a good candidate for the role. While my work will take me to a different BID, I will remain a Williamsburg resident and look forward to watching Grand Street continue to evolve.

Sincerely,

Erin Piscopink
Executive Director

How-To Valentine's Day on Grand Street 2024

Happy Valentine’s Day! Need last minute plans on this special day with your special someone? Then you’re in the right place! This Valentine’s guide lists specials, deals, events, and the best spots to shop on Grand Street! There is an abundance of ways to spread love this winter season - whether you are doing something special with a significant other or partner, spending time with friends and family, or most importantly showing love for yourself! Check out “How-to” Valentines Day on Grand Street for all the inside tips.

Flowers

Flowers are a Valentine's day staple. Start off the month by gifting someone you love with a floral surprise. Or make some room on your coffee table, and treat yourself to a gorgeous bouquet to brighten your space.

Flores Del Valle (706 Grand Street) - Choose from an extensive selection of flowers, and colorful, decorative arrangements at this long standing flower shop. Whether you want to purchase a single flower, a bouquet, or inquire about their amazing custom arrangements, swing by to surprise that special someone!

Events

Crystal Lake Brooklyn (647 Grand Street) - Crystal Lake is hosting a Valentine’s party in partnership with Brooklyn Hearts Club! Drink specials, games and more, from 8PM - 12AM. (21+)

Nieves Dance Studio (670 Grand Street) - Swing by Nieves Dance Studio for their Valentines Day Social! Salsa and Bachata the night away, from 8PM - 12AM. Free for members, $25 for guests. Tacos will be served!

Medusa (618 Grand Street) - Grand Street’s newest bar Medusa is hosting “Snake Bite”, a burlesque show at 8PM! (21+)

Blinky’s (609 Grand Street) - Blinky’s is hosting a Takoyaki Pop-Up, in partnership with YokoNips - Get some delicious Takoyaki from 6PM - 10PM! Blinky’s will also be showing a variety of Romance movies for their annual Love-Movie- Marathon!

specials and deals

Ubi Market (655 Grand Street) - Buy one Boba and get the 2nd one free at Ubi Market - exclusively on Valentine’s Day!

Lucy’s Vietnamese (649 Grand Street) - Double the Pho, Double the Joy! Buy one get Pho get one free at Lucy’s Vietnamese today! *One free Pho per order, must order online at lucysvietnamese.com”

Wine, Dine, and Desert

Nothing says love like food. Grand Street has it all, from delicious dishes to bottles of bubbly, and sweet treats! Dine out or treat yourself or someone you love to a night in. Below are just a few of Grand Street's restaurants and desert spots that can spark some ideas to find the perfect Valentine's day vibe for you.

WINE

Los Tacos Mcondo (502 Grand Street) - Drink your heart out with a Cupid Cosmo from Los Tacos Mcondo - exclusively on Valentine’s Day!

The Clonard (506 Grand Street) - Grand Street's classic Irish pub is warm and cheerful. With ample table space and a cozy bar in the back its a great spot to spend time with friends or someone special.

Check out Blue Angel Wine and Spirits or Richie's Wine and Liquors for a bottle of wine, bubbly, or cocktail ingredients for a festive evening in.

DINE

Ammazzacaffè (702 Grand Street) - Grand Street's Michelin rated Italian Restaurant is the perfect place to have a romantic evening. Dine in their heated backyard or get it to-go! You can even purchase whole bottles of wine with your takeout order. Go to their website to make reservations or order to-go!

La Chacra (613 Grand Street) - Swing by La Chacra for their Pre-fixed Valentine’s menu! Enjoy specials like Ceviche de Pescado, Lomo Saltodo alongside a glass of Rose!

Dar 525 (525 Grand Street) - This Mediterranean staple has heated outdoor dining as well as takeout. Share a delicious platter with someone you love or order for yourself! They also have happy hour from 12-7 everyday, with wine specials galore. Order and look at their menu here.

Café Zouave (759 Grand Street) - Have a romantic dinner at Café Zouave and enjoy their delicious French cuisine. From classics like French onion soup to Steak and frites, Café Zouave is Grand Street’s newest French Bistro and perfect for a romantic dinner.

DESSERT

Yummy Tummy’s Kitchen

Yummy Tummy's Kitchen (793 Grand Street) - is offering up some delicious valentine's treats. Including heart shaped brownies, red velvet & rose cupcakes, chocolate covered strawberries, and more. Get something sweet for your sweet, these deserts will say it all! Check out their Instagram to see all their specials.

Grand Morelos (727 Grand Street) - This classic Mexican diner and bakery is serving up delicious sweets, pastries and more! Check out their full case of baked goods right as you walk in the door. Stop by today or order online.

Grooming and Self Care

Williamsburg Facial and Waxing Studio (527 Grand Street) - You'll be looking and feeling your best in no time after trying one of these amazing skin treatments. Zofia's expertise and top of the line products make the perfect treat for yourself or gift for someone you love. Click here to book an appointment or buy products.

Hour Rose Salon (658D Grand Street) - Make an appointment at Hour Rose Salon for a trim, color, or completely new look!

Hair By Catherine (584 Grand Street) - Catherine can help you get glam and feeling good with a cut and color.

Spa Ella II (529 Grand Street) - Spa Ella II specializes in custom tips and nail design. You'll be looking and feeling glam in no time!

Yummy Extensions (675 Grand Street) - Treat yourself to Yummy Extensions famed hair styles, inlcluding some of the highest quality, wigs, extensions and more!

Stop by Groomers and Pomade (796 Grand Street) or Cutz On Lorimer (483 Lorimer) for a fresh cut, touch up and shave! Have yourself looking and feeling great during this dreary month.

Primp and Polish (586 Grand Street) - Nothing makes you feel fresh, clean, and beaitiful like a mani-pedi. Make an appointment with Primp and Polish for a mini spa day, or purchase some of their nail care products!

Be A Small Business Sweetie this Valentines Day!

Valentine’s Day is around the corner, it’s time to show love! Every February, we encourage the neighborhood to show love to your community by being a #SmallBusinessSweetie! Small businesses are the foundation of what makes Grand Street special and we’d like them to know it. Join us for our 4th annual Crafts and Cocktails at Blinky’s and Medusa to make Valentines! We’re supplying art materials for you to craft the perfect valentine, whether it's for a partner, a local business, a friend, or a pet. Enjoy drink specials and get creative!

Sunday 2/11 @ Blinky’s, 609 Grand Street 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Wednesday 2/13 @ Medusa, 618 Grand Street 6:00PM - 8:00PM

The best Grand Street Valentine made wins a free Grand Street Passport! Making a Valentine for your favorite Grand Street business enters you into a raffle for a free passport. Get $5 off a Grand Street Passport if you purchase at one of our Crafts and Cocktails events!

Friends Beautiful Nail Spa Opens at 749 Grand Street

Sandra and Anita

Welcome Friends Beautiful Nail Spa to 749 Grand Street! Friends Beautiful is a Nail Spa only a block away from the Grand Street L Train Station that opened in late 2023. Carlos (owner) opened the Nail Spa alongside his family, employing his niece Anita as a nail technician. They offer a wide variety of services including manicures, pedicures, waxing, massages (both on a chair and table) and face masks - making them a one stop shop for all your grooming needs. 

Friends Beautiful Nail Spa offers a variety of ways to save on their services. On Mondays they offer discounted manicures and pedicure combos. On most holidays they have a prize wheel for customers, offering prizes like free pedicures. They have their own gift and rewards cards - racking up 10 visits (where you spend $13+) wins you a free manicure!

Carlos has said they’ve felt very welcomed in the neighborhood so far and have enjoyed their reception. He says that Grand Street is a diverse and friendly area, with a wonderful community that he feels him and his family fit right in. Swing by Friends Beautiful Nail Spa on 749 Grand Street for your nail and grooming needs!

Cover Photo by Bryan Hernandez.