the amika guide to Williamsburg

There’s no secret we love Williamsburg! There’s just something different in the air here. An artistic energy that favors the hustlers and turns dreams into reality. It’s where we call home and the backbone of our identity. From the street art to the repurposed factories, inspiration is endless. The culture and attitude of amika would not have been possible anywhere but this little section of Brooklyn - where an outsider can always thrive.

Whether you’re headed to our favorite neighborhood for the first time or looking to discover a previously unknown gem – you’re guaranteed to soak up some of the distinct culture that is found in our home from the below recs.

SHOP

• About Glamour:

A mainstay of Williamsburg since 2003, About Glamour is not only a vintage boutique but also doubles as an art gallery. As a champion of emerging artists, About Glamour provides a platform for both new and established creatives across fashion, art, music, and design. Check it out if you’re looking to not only snag some Comme des Garcons, Yohi Yamamoto, Issey Miyake, but also discover some new new.

310 Grand Street, Brooklyn, New York 11211

• Swords-Smith:

If you’re looking for a curated selection of independent designers, head to Swords-Smith and expect to discover some real gems. Carrying menswear and womenswear, Swords-Smith promises to rep brands, both emerging and established, who maintain the values of quality, process, and creativity in design.

98 South 4th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11249

• Concrete + Water:
  This lifestyle brick and mortar boutique promises to combine the vibrant hues of the tropics with the rugged tones of the street for a carefree, yet cozy selection of apparel and homeware. If you’re a fan of the hygge (who isn’t?!), you’ll be sure to find quality pieces that are refreshing yet practical.

485 Driggs Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11211

• LEIF:

You head to LEIF when you’re looking to be comforted. This lifestyle shop carries a beautiful selection of items for everyday living. With a well-edited assortment of items from textiles to artwork to stationary and more, you’re guaranteed to find some unique goods from all corners of the world that will add a little brightness to your life.

99 Grand Street, Brooklyn, NY 11249

EAT

• Mazie:

This joint has got it all. Whether you’re looking for live music, a great cocktail, delicious oysters, or the perfect meal, you’ll be sure to leave St. Mazie feeling satisfied.

345 Grand Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211

• Okonomi:
  Throw out everything you know about brunch. Yes, we’re talking about the perfectly gooey yolk of your favorite eggs benedict and your bottomless mimosa. It’s got to go. Instead, replace your brunch staples with a trip to Okonomi for a traditional Japanese set breakfast.

150 Ainslie Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211

• Lilia:
  As a repurposed auto-body shop, Lilia is a clean, streamlined space that serves hand crafted pastas and wood fired seafood.

567 Union Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11222

• The Four Horseman:
  This neighborhood restaurant prides itself on small plates but more importantly, pouring wine every day. Now, that’s something we can get behind, too.

295 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211

• Roberta’s:
  No visit to Williamsburg is complete without a stop at Roberta’s for wood oven cooked pizza concocted from ingredients plucked from their rooftop garden.

261 Moore Street, Brooklyn, NY 11206

BEAUTY

• Paintbucket Nails:

Take a walk down Wythe past your favorite shops (lets face it, no one can pass up MUJI pens or Van Leeuwen Ice Cream) and you’ll find Paintbucket for all of your nail art needs.

204 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11249

• Wild Oleander:

This beauty bar combines both the 1970s and the tropics for a space you will not want to leave. Stop by Wild Oleander for facials, lashes, and more.

222 Varet Street, Brooklyn, NY 11206

BARS

• The Woods:

The combo of inexpensive drinks and tacos keeps us coming back to this bar.

48 S 4th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211

• Kinfolk 94:

Architecturally elaborate with an open-timbered layout, Kinfolk 94 is an experimental nightclub and event space.

94 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11249

• Baby’s All Right:

It’s a bar and restaurant with serious character that always delivers on live music.

146 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211

• 3 Dollar Bill:

This is where you go for some local flavor and drag shows. We guarantee you’ll be sure to end the night with a few stories worth retelling!

260 Meserole Street, Brooklyn, NY 11206