Lala’s Brooklyn Apizza does New Haven-style (thin and crispy), paired with communal tables on a rooftop patio. On a balmy summer's evening, coupled with a cold beer from their partner brewery, Grimm Artisanal Ales, there is no better combo. 

Trot through this beloved little plot of green and take in the urbanity of it all, where locals, young and old, gather across the courts to play basketball and handball, skateboard, and walk their dogs. Walk around the periphery to peruse its bordering Sharon Street, a residential stretch dotted with traditional metal-awning fronted abodes as well as slick, renovated designs.   

Founded by a pair of longtime friends, Alita offers excellent locally-roasted coffee and sublime pastries and sandwiches, all baked in-house. Get a soft slice of banana bread or gooey chocolate chip cookie to have with your coffee if they haven’t sold out yet. While we’ve placed this in the afternoon pick-me-up category, their breakfast sandwiches (bacon, egg and cheese wedged between fluffy focaccia or warm biscuits) cooked right on the other side of the counter, are another exceptional way to start your day.  

The room is golden, the music easy, and the food downright joyful. Guatemalan roots run deep here: sweet plantains, pulled pork and creamy scrambled egg carnitas bowls and rum cocktails that go down a little too fast. Williamsburg has plenty of brunch spots, but Claudia’s has real soul.