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Flowery, Legal Cannabis Dispensary, now at 692 Grand Street

The Flowery, Grand Street's first licensed cannabis dispensary, is now open at 692 Grand Street! 692 Grand Street marks their fifth location, with others located in each of the five boroughs, starting on Staten Island two years ago.

The shelves have a variety of different products, which can be a lot to take in. That’s where The Flowery’s excellent customer service comes in to assist - the staff is trained to know the in’s and out’s of every product in the store, and can help you from start to finish. Natasha, the location's manager, brings a wealth of industry knowledge and 8 years of expertise to the store; her goal is to make her customers feel welcome and comfortable choosing from their inventory of lab tested and legal cannabis products.

While the interior itself is richly covered with collage murals (featuring the likes of George Washington and John Lennon) the site additionally hosts rotating art, with Natasha expressing interest in bringing in local artwork to display. Natasha has felt welcome by Grand Street, saying the “reception has been great from the neighborhood. Everyone’s happy that a legal spot is here.”

Check out The Flowery at 692 Grand Street!

Wellness Week on Grand Street 2025

The Grand Street BID is excited to showcase Wellness Week; a week of deals and events at some of your favorite Wellness businesses on Grand Street from April 7th - April 13th.

You’ll have the option to choose from deals at salons, spas, barbers, fitness studios, and more! We’re excited to offer discounted experiences at the best of Grand Street’s beauty, health, and wellness businesses to our community. So stop by and treat yourself to a business (or two!) on Grand. Read below for all deals and events being offered during the event.

Wellness Week Events

Powers street garden walking tour

Kick off the week with a walking tour of the Powers Street Garden at 12PM on April 5th, located at 278 Powers Street. Learn from local members about bed management, check out the daffodils blooming all over, and maybe even get your hands dirty helping planting and clearing space for new growth. 

Click here or the button below to RSVP for the walking tour:

composting info session with big reuse

Join us and Big Reuse on the corner of Graham Avenue and Grand Street in front of the Chase Bank to talk composting and community care, from 3-4PM on April 9th. You’ll be able to receive free printed informational materials, decals for bins, 1-gallon food scrap kitchen containers, and the team can answer any questions you have about curbside composting.

Big Reuse has been a driving force for composting efforts across NYC with their community-based approach to food waste for over a decade. As part of the city's community-scaled composting network, they collaborate with botanical gardens and composting nonprofits to provide New Yorkers with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to produce and use compost.

Wellness Week Deals and Specials

United Xtreme Martial Arts - 653 Grand Street

$20 for 2 weeks of classes with t-shirt included

Nieves Latin Dance Studio - 670 Grand Street

One free trial class

Groomers and Pomade - 796 Grand Street

25% off, with 50% for junior barber

Skin By Sol - 527 Grand Street

15% off one facial

Hair by Catherine - 584 Grand Street

Complementary scalp detox and mask with haircut/blowout. Complementary Olaplex treatment/mask with color services.

Primp N Polish - 586 Grand Street

20% any one service

Da Francesco Pizza & Cucina now at 552 Grand Street

Da Francesco Pizza & Cucina reopens at 552 Grand Street! Da Francesco is a Pizzeria and Italian restaurant that was previously located at 442 Graham Avenue for 22 years. Owner Francesco Cuozzo is bringing decades of experience in the restaurant business to this new location. Da Francesco offers delicious pizza, alongside Italian classics like Penne Ala Vodka, Ravioli with Mushrooms & Truffles, and even desserts like Tiramisu. 

Da Francesco is known for using high quality ingredients imported from Italy, and is an established community staple. When we visited the pizzeria, two longtime customers swung by and were delighted to see that Da Francesco is still in the neighborhood. 

Francesco came to this country 22 years ago from Salerno, Italy. He has a deep love for the community in East Williamsburg - that’s why this new location isn’t too far from the original. He considers himself “a people person, who’s happy to feed folks”. He’s hardworking and loves to cook; when he’s not making pizza he’s spending time with his family. That family time is almost always about food as well; and when it isn’t, he’s talking to his sons about Juventus and other football clubs. 

Swing by Da Francesco at 552 Grand Street for a delicious slice of pizza, plate of pasta, or cannoli!

Emack & Bolios Arrives to 640 Grand Street

Emack and Bolios has arrived at 640 Grand Street! E & B’s is an ice cream shop founded in 1975, serving up a range of both classic and innovative ice cream flavors. Owner, Joshua Mead, opened up this new location on Grand Street with 10 years of experience as an Ice Cream man. As a resident and now business owner on Grand Street, he’s excited to “serve good vibes” to the neighborhood with delicious ice cream. His personal favorite is the Toasted S'moreo - toasted marshmallow ice cream with graham cracker swirl and oreos. You can try your favorite flavors in the form of Sundaes, Cones, Cups and Drinks like Frappes (milkshakes) and Root beer floats.

Joshua is a firm believer in “Ice cream being a food everybody can get behind”. E & B’s and Joshua’s ethos is to get back to the basics of ice cream; be kind to people & sell good ice cream and people will have a good time. Popular flavors include Beantown Buzz, Alphonso Mango Sorbet, and Vegan coffee cookie to name a few. 

Emack and Bolios was founded in 1975 by a lawyer named Bob Rook. Bob is a music lawyer who started E & B as a place that musicians could hang out at after their gigs. The rock ‘n roll scene in Boston was popping off at the time, but laws at the time prohibited clubs from opening past midnight. Then came Emack & Bolio’s, acting as a third place for Bob and his musician community. 50 years have passed since, with E & B’s now available in 17 locations across the country, and 21 across Korea and China. 

To celebrate the new store, E & B’s will be hosting a free Ice Cream Social this Saturday. Swing by Emack and Bolios at 640 Grand Street tomorrow, March 15th from 1-3PM for a free scoop of ice cream!

St. Patrick's Day Bar Hop on Grand Street

St. Patrick’s day weekend is upon us, and we know many of our fellow Brooklynites are looking for the best ways to celebrate.

Join us for our St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl from Sunday, March 16th to Monday, March 17th for a bar hop full of celebration! Our two day bar hop is jam-packed with specials to commemorate the holiday. We’ve got 10 different bars participating in our Bar Hop all offering drink specials only available during this weekend of St. Patrick’s celebration. Stop by one, or make it a crawl and check them all out!

Bar Hop Specials

The Clonard

The Clonard - 506 Grand Street | 3/14 - 3/17 (opening at 12PM on 3/17)

Grand Street’s resident Irish Pub is coming out hot as always for St. Patrick’s Day! The Clonard will be running specials from Friday the 14th to Monday the 17th. They’re opening at noon on St. Patrick’s Day as well, so come as early as you’d like.

The Clonard will be serving up a special menu with signature Irish food specials including Corn Beef & Cabbage, Bangers and mash, Spicebags, & Irish beef stew. Drinks include Guinness, Irish coffee, Irish eyed cocktails & Hot Toddys alongside Irish Whiskeys and other classics. With a full menu, drinks, and entertainment, The Clonard is a must to stop by on St. Patrick’s Day.

Mcondo Los Tacos - 502 Grand Street | 3/16-3/17
Every $20 spent on food or drinks gets you a surprise ticket. Some come with lucky prizes, including:
🥇 1st Prize: Free food & drinks for a night (up to $40)
🥈 2nd Prize: 2 free margaritas or beers
🥉 3rd Prize: A special house shot
🍀 4th prize: 15% off dinner on Monday (only)
🍀 Bonus: Some golden tickets will have surprise discounts or extra prizes! $15 draft beer, Jameson shot & Taco - 11:00 AM

Carneval - 507 Grand Street | 3/16-3/17
Green beer + well shot: $10
Green beer + Jameson shot: $12
Shamrock cocktail (Jameson, triple sec, lime juice): $10
Jameson shot: $7
2 Empanadas (chicken/beef/cheese) + a beer & well shot: $14

Whiskey on Grand - 524 Grand Street | 3/15-3/17
Corned Beef Sandwich on Rye: $14
Lucky Irishman: $14
Irish Lass: $14
Irish Coffee: $15
Dublin Drop: $15
Gansett & Tullamore: $12
Guinness & Tullamore: $15

Ontario Bar - 559 Grand Street | 3/16-3/17
$10 for a shot of Jameson with a small Guinness

Bushwick Country Club - 608 Grand Street | 3/16-3/17
$5 Green Beer. Every drink you buy gets you a raffle ticket to win a gift certificate.

Blinky’s Bar - 609 Grand Street | 3/16-3/17
$7 Tall boy Tecate Beer and shot. $5 green Pints

Medusa Brooklyn - 618 Grand Street | Only on 3/17
$5 Green Misguided Whiskey shots

Crystal Lake Brooklyn - 647 Grand Street | 3/16-3/17
$8 Irish Whiskey & Ginger, $6 Shamrock Crystal Lake Lager. $10 Dublin Drops

Haven - 683 Grand Street | 3/16-3/17
Free shot of whiskey with every Guinness.

Pace SBDC on Grand Street

On Friday February 28th, The Grand Street BID attended a meeting focused on Small Businesses in the community and to commemorate the launch of Pace SBDC’s Satellite services in partnership with our office. The meeting was held at Grand Morelos, a longstanding business on Grand Street and Pace SBDC client, and gathered local business owners, community leaders, and key stakeholders.

Among the attendees were Congressmember Nydia Velázquez, John Mallano, District Director of the SBA’s NY District Office, Francesca Bruce & Yazan Mansi from the Grand Street Business Improvement District (BID), Andrew Flamm and Pedro Soto from the Pace SBDC, Mark Caserta from the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, and representatives from State Senator Julia Salazar’s office and Brooklyn Community Board 1. We were excited to celebrate Pace SBDC’s satellite services at our office with these key stakeholders (as they provide valuable support for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.), and we were also excited to share the Grand Street Passport (our ongoing local deals program) with the attendees.

In this precarious time of so much uncertainty, we appreciate Congressmember Nydia Velázquez taking the time to meet with us and our partners. We will continue to advocate for small businesses and our community as we work towards making Grand Street a better place to work, live, and visit.

If you're an entrepreneur or business owner at any stage, sign up with Pace SBDC! Their business advisors provide expert guidance in key areas such as access to financing, marketing and sales strategies, government procurement, certification programs, and business planning. Sessions are by appointment, in English or Spanish, and interested small businesses must complete the SBDC counseling request form. Visit – https://pacesbdc.org/counseling-form for more information and to register.

Welcome Foodtown to 695 Grand Street!

Welcome Foodtown to 695 Grand Street! Foodtown is a supermarket cooperative, with each location being locally owned and operated. Their newest 10,000 sq feet location on Grand Street marks their 67th Foodtown store, with locations all throughout New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Foodtown offers a wide range of products for every type of shopper, including organic and locally sourced produce. Their International groceries section has everything you’d need from tortillas to imported cheeses. Swing by Foodtown at 695 Grand Street for your next shopping trip! 🛒 🍎

A Guide to Restaurant Week on Grand Street 2025

BK Jani

Monday, January 6th marked the beginning of Restaurant Week, Grand Street’s semi-annual restaurant event! 11 of the best eats in Williamsburg are offering 3-course prix fixe dinners at discounted rates from $21 to $35 in North Brooklyn’s annual celebration of local cuisine till January 20th. 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.

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.

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—$30

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.

Chicken from Indian Kitchen

Indian kitchen—$24.95

739 Grand Street — menu

Indian Kitchen returns to Grand Street Restaurant Week serving up delicious traditional Indian cuisine, with both Meat & Vegan options all throughout. Rice and Naan are included in every order! Start with their Samosas, either vegetable or chicken. We recommend trying their Chicken Tikka Masala for a smoky and flavor packed main. Their Saag Panir is a good alternative if you are looking for a vegan option. Finish your meal with a sweet Rice Pudding for a taste of Indian Cuisine.

Filling Favorites!

LA CHACRA—$34

613 Grand Street — menu

La Chacra’s got traditional Peruvian cuisine straight from the “Chacra” or farm in Spanish. Begin your meal with a delicious Ceviche de Hongos for a taste of a Peruvian classic or their Papa Rellena: a golden fried potato stuffed with beef stew, onions, olives, and eggs. For the main entree we recommend the Aji De Pollo, a delicious shredded chicken dish with chili sauce, or the Marisco Saltado, a mixed seafood sauteed with onions. Enjoy your dinner alongside either a Glass of Wine or an El Inca.

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, 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 Flan or Churros that also come with a side of fruit.

Bahn Mi from Lucy’s Vietnamese

LUCY’S VIETNAMESE—$22

649A Grand Street — menu

Lucy’s Vietnamese is coming in hot with it’s third Restaurant Week on Grand Street. Coming in at $22, Lucy’s is offering a Summer Roll, a bowl of Pho or a Bánh mì, and one of either their of their in house made Vietnamese Coffee or Iced Tea. At the core of Lucy’s dishes is its brisket which is smoked for 14 hours. They also offer other proteins including chicken, vegan chicken, and tofu. With a wide array of proteins available in their dishes, Lucy’s is covering all bases. If all of those options overwhelm you, you can’t go wrong with their signature Brisket Pho paired with the refreshing House Iced Tea or the sweet Creme Caramel.

Colombian Burger from La Oficina

LA OFICINA—$28

759 Grand Street — menu

Welcome La Oficina to Grand Street! La Oficina is a Latino Dive Bar and Grand Street’s newest gastropub. Come to La Oficina for the great music and vibes, and stay for the food. With a mix of Colombian and Mexican classics, you’re going to leave satisfied. Start with their Elote, or Chips and Salsa for your Appetizer. You can’t go wrong with the Mazorcadas for a main, with your choice of chicken or steak. The Quesabirria and Colombian Burger are also great options. The sweet Flan is a fantastic way to finish your dinner; or an order of Churros if that’s your vibe.

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.

Restaurant Week returns to Grand Street 2025

We are elated to announce the return of our 11th annual Restaurant Week on Grand Street! Get ready for the best dining event North Brooklyn has to offer. 11 restaurants on Grand Street are offering pre fixed menus for our 11th annual event, showcasing the excellent dining and nightlife scene in the neighborhood. The two week celebration of local cuisine begins on Monday, January 6th and runs through Monday, January 20th.

Click here for 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 11 participants and pricing below. Prices at restaurants range from $21 to $35 and apply only to sit-down dinners, starting at 5PM — tax and tip not included.

Many of our staple restaurants are returning to participate this time around and some, like Grand Morelos and Bahia; Bahia is offering a fourth course, bringing amazing value to the table. We’re excited to have Indian Kitchen return to Restaurant Week - a staple on Grand Street that last participated in 2019.

BK Jani is returning with their renowned burgers that have been spotlighted on Infatuation NYC’s best restaurants in Williamsburg list. Grand Street favorites like Lucy’s Vietnamese, Los Tacos Mcondo, Desy’s Clam Bar, and La Chacra are also participating again with several Restaurant Week’s under their belts. At a steal of a price of $35, Michelin Bib Gourmand winning Ammazzacaffè is offering fine dining Italian cuisine.

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

Grand Street Passport 2025

The Grand Street BID is proud to announce the return of the Grand Street Passport: a passport book that offers freebies & deals at select restaurants, bars, and other eateries in the BID. Participants will use their passport when shopping at select businesses to get the passport deal and get a stamp in their passport. When passport holders accumulate stamps, they’ll unlock prizes! 

The Grand Street Passport is on sale now. Deals will be active from 1/27 - 3/31. Passports cost $25 this year, a $15 decrease from last year!

22 businesses are joining in on offering discounts, including Grand Street favorites like Ammazzacaffè, Blinky’s Bar , Café Miguel & BK Jani. We are also happy to welcome Grand Street’s newest bar to the program, La Oficina.

Proceeds will be donated to North Brooklyn Angels, a volunteer-driven, hyper-local nonprofit that organizes direct action projects to address the needs of a rapidly changing community. Its small staff, supported by scores of daily neighborhood volunteers, serves up to 1,800 hot, healthy meals per week at various locations in the area, engaging over 500 unique volunteers annually.

You can only get the deal at each business once per passport. Deals do not include tax or tip. Please don't forget to tip! Participating businesses may choose not to honor Passport deals on March 17. Passports will be delivered a week before the start date.

Participating Businesses

Grand Street BID Installs Daylighting Hardening

The Grand Street BID is proud to announce our new bike corrals and planters on Grand Street at Graham and Manhattan avenues. This new street furniture protects the corner and improves visibility for pedestrians and vehicles alike, while bringing both cyclists and greenery to the area.

This is an important first step towards making our busy street safer and lovelier for all, while we wait for the NYC DOT’s broader response to last year’s extensive visioning process. Like a complete breakfast, a complete street needs a balance of ingredients to keep a community healthy including bike lanes, loading zones for businesses, & protected spaces like these!

We are so grateful to the NYC DOT and the Hort for helping us build this small but important oasis! We hope for more improvements soon - stay tuned!

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!