17 Thames Street

Quick Profile

East Williamsburg is a mixed industrial neighborhood in Brooklyn, with many working factories that make everything from beer and wontons to clothing and concrete. You are likely to hear screeching, pounding and the deep thump of industrial machinery throughout the day. East Williamsburg has become a haven for artists and musicians of every description, who are attracted to the large open loft spaces of the converted industrial buildings. The area has attracted a younger crowd of 20- and 30-somethings that are drawn by affordable rents and a generally lower cost of living.

There is a rich history of immigrants from Puerto Rico and Italy, and oddly enough, they chose to settle on opposite ends of Graham Avenue, with the Italians on the north and the Puerto Ricans on the south.

Housing in the area consists of mid-rise apartment buildings, row houses, and public housing complexes. There are also smaller multi-family apartment buildings available. Lofts are becoming more prevalent as the older, abandoned factory buildings come up for sale and are converted into residential properties. 

East Williamsburgfairly pulses with a creative vibe. There are unique shopping venues, numerous tiny coffee shops, interesting restaurants, and cafes, along with food trucks that frequent the area. The grocery stores are affordable and carry a wide variety of goods that appeal to the eclectic tastes of the neighborhood residents.

There is a vibrant bar scene, where you will find mostly local residents imbibing, so it is easy to make friends among your neighbors if you stop in frequently at your favorite watering hole. There are many interesting shops, bars and restaurants tucked in amongst the warehouses and factories. Many do not invest in elaborate signage, so it can be difficult to find some of the best spots. Keep an eye out for hand-painted signs on the sides of buildings with arrows pointing to nondescript, nearly invisible entrances.