Gran Torino

"Similar to an amusement park or a playground in a rich neighborhood, there are many different places where you can experience the fun at Gran Torino. There’s a huge indoor space with big windows, there’s a cafe section where you can order Italian meats and cheeses, pizzas, and salads, and, finally, a backyard space with a bunch of picnic tables and its own bar serving frozen drinks. Come on a Saturday (or during Happy Hour which runs from noon to 7pm on weekdays) and it’ll feel like three different Williamsburg parties happening at once." - hannah albertine

"Andy Xu, Executive Chef at The Odeon, told us that Bela is his preferred sardine brand: 'They’re lightly smoked, so there’s an added depth of flavor,' he says." - Hilary Reid

"Gran Torino is an Italian restaurant near the Bedford stop in Williamsburg and it has a very large backyard with its very own outdoor bar. Considering this place is pretty much made for Williamsburg day drinking, the food is better than it needs to be. Head to the counter inside, where you can order personal Neapolitan pizzas, salads, and other Italian snacks. We like the kale caesar that’s not embarrassed about how many anchovies are in its dressing, and the personal-sized pizza with olives, mushrooms, and a nice blanket of prosciutto on top. photo credit: Noah Devereaux" - Hannah Albertine