With a mix of apartment buildings, warehouses, and converted artists lofts, East Williamsburg is part gritty industrial area and part rising creative quarter. Often mis-identified as Bushwick, and sometimes colloquially referred to as Morgantown or Robertasville, East Williamsburg is quickly developing an identity of its own. With plenty of street art, hidden away DIY spaces, historic buildings, tech enterprises, and trendy new shops, East Williamsburg is a place of constant flux, and a happy home for many a self-made creative individual with hustle and heart.
Art gallery with an awesome roof for the best opening parties.
El Cortez is an unexpected treasure on an unassuming block. You'll first notice the totem pole on the facade of the building but as you enter, you're wowed by the most perfectly put together 60s tiki lounge vibe complete with mid-century furniture, elaborate palm tree wallpaper, and tropical cocktails that come in fully themed glasses. It's like having a Singapore Sling in a 60s Caribbean amusement park. The second floor has another bar, a patio, and one impressive taxidermied alligator on the wall. The menu would best be described as Mexican-American: crunchy tacos, loaded nachos, taco salad, and (why not?) a cheeseburger. Come here and embrace the crossover themes for a classic good time.
