A blend of divey charm and retro Americana touches, duckduck has been around since 2001 – a cavernous, exposed brick, Christmas light-strung watering hole in which to sip cheap beer and feel like a regular. When the weather’s nice, post up outside in their colourful folding chairs. Or nestle into one of their sunken couches, like something stolen from your grandmother’s basement, when it’s blustery outside. Cash only.   

Tucked off an unassuming street in East Williamsburg, Win Son's exterior pays homage to New York's beloved bodegas, but the light-filled interior has a crisp, modern vibe thanks to glossy blonde wood tables, exposed brick walls and a small, polished bar that's perfect for both solo diners and couples. This bright little spot aims to showcase Taiwan's culinary landscape with a fresh perspective. Don’t miss briny clams in a thick bath of Shaoxing rice wine, bobbing with cubes of red kabocha. This may be paired with soft bao – their unique twist is as addictive as it is sloppy – and tailed by thick and chewy zha jiang mian (noodles simmered with tender lamb, chilli oil, and Sichuan peppercorn). 

A sunlit, airy gem, Kalimera sources relaxed, timeless pieces – think Italian blazers, soft cotton dresses, silk blouses, and worn-in denim, giddily plucked through on Saturdays by shoppers hungry for 90s silhouettes. Prices range from affordable staples to standout investment pieces, with a rotating rack of sale finds out front.   

A modern take on the classic Greek diner, Baby Blues Luncheonette brings a playful, retro vibe to East Williamsburg’s brunch scene. The menu nods to Mediterranean roots – think halloumi H.L.T.s (a play on the B.L.T.), baklava banana bread, and the Zorba Plate loaded with eggs, tzatziki, and golden Greek potatoes. The space channels peak nostalgia with baby-blue booths, checkerboard floors, and a full wall of vintage VHS tapes. Lines can sometimes form on the weekends; weekdays are more relaxed.