Smorgasburg Williamsburg
NYC's largest weekly food market, featuring 100+ vendors with diverse global cuisines and skyline views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the peak crowds
Smorgasburg Williamsburg
Best Time
Beat the peak crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
NYC's largest weekly food market, featuring 100+ vendors with diverse global cuisines and skyline views.
"It's a foodie's paradise with over 100 vendors in three different locations."
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Bites
Beat the crowds and secure your favorites by arriving right when it opens. Some popular vendors sell out!
💳 Bring Both Cash & Card
Most vendors take cards, but having cash can speed up transactions or cover cash-only spots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Lebanese Shawarma
Hen House
Thin Lebanese bread, flavorful shawarma, and homemade harissa make this a must-try street food experience.
Trinidadian Pholourie
Everything Oxtail
Spiced fritters topped with rich oxtail, a unique and satisfying fusion of Caribbean flavors.
Luxury Indian Fusion Donuts
Knead Some Love NY
Exquisite donuts inspired by Indian desserts like Rose Pistachio and Ras Malai, beautifully decorated and delicious.
Smash Burgers
Smashed
Juicy, crispy-edged smash burgers that have left a lasting impression on food critics.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Costs
Cash vs. Card & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Bites
Beat the crowds and secure your favorites by arriving right when it opens. Some popular vendors sell out!
💳 Bring Both Cash & Card
Most vendors take cards, but having cash can speed up transactions or cover cash-only spots.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
It's an outdoor market! Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially on hot days.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Hype
While some find it overhyped, many unique and tasty options exist. Explore beyond the most photographed stalls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Bites
Beat the crowds and secure your favorites by arriving right when it opens. Some popular vendors sell out!
💳 Bring Both Cash & Card
Most vendors take cards, but having cash can speed up transactions or cover cash-only spots.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
It's an outdoor market! Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially on hot days.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Hype
While some find it overhyped, many unique and tasty options exist. Explore beyond the most photographed stalls.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Street parking is limited and can be expensive. Consider public transport or ride-sharing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Smorgasburg Williamsburg is a highly popular, albeit often crowded and pricey, outdoor food market. Visitors rave about the diverse and innovative culinary offerings, with many vendors creating visually stunning and delicious dishes. However, some find the experience to be overhyped and expensive, suggesting the quality doesn't always match the cost.
"Perfect summer day out!! So many amazing food options to try.. from sweet to savory, there’s something for everyone. The overall vibe was amazing with great music, good company, and that stunning Manhattan skyline in the background. Loved every bit of it!"
Mylie Mudaliyar
"We came mainly based on recommendations about the fries. They were definitely very tasty and worth trying.
We also had the dim sum dumplings, one of each kind, and they were delicious.
There’s quite a wide variety of food stalls in the area, with seating available, and there’s also a shaded grassy area next to the seating."
Miryam Ashurov
"A fun weekend even to attend at Billyburg. Lots of variety and good quality of food from the stands. Alas price is too high and portion sizes too low. Almost everything is $15+, with some premium items costing 20+. Guess it reflects the neighborhood. A good spot if you are in the area, but there are many queens and brooklyn neighborhoods offering better cheaper food if you are will to explore a bit."
Jia Sun
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Smorgasburg Williamsburg is located at Marsha P. Johnson State Park, 90 Kent Ave. The easiest way to get there is via the L train to Bedford Avenue or the G train to Metropolitan Avenue. Many visitors also opt for ride-sharing services or walking if staying nearby.
Parking in the Williamsburg area can be challenging and expensive. Street parking is limited, and garages are available but can add to the cost of your visit. Public transportation is generally recommended.
Smorgasburg Williamsburg typically operates on Saturdays from 11 AM to 6 PM. It's a seasonal market, so check their official website for exact opening and closing dates for the year.
Yes, Smorgasburg Williamsburg is well-served by public transportation. The L train (Bedford Ave station) and G train (Metropolitan Ave station) are the closest subway options.
Generally, pets are not allowed in Smorgasburg markets, including Williamsburg, due to food safety regulations and crowd management. Always check the official Smorgasburg website for the most current pet policy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Smorgasburg is typically free. You only pay for the food and drinks you purchase from the vendors.
Most vendors at Smorgasburg accept credit cards, but it's a good idea to bring some cash as a backup, as a few smaller vendors might be cash-only. ATMs are usually available on-site. +1
Smorgasburg Williamsburg typically runs from April through October. Specific opening and closing dates can vary each year, so it's best to check the official Smorgasburg website for the most up-to-date information.
Food prices at Smorgasburg can vary significantly by vendor and item, but many visitors find it to be on the pricier side. Expect to spend anywhere from $10-$25+ per dish, with some items being more. +1
Yes, portable restrooms (portapotties) are typically available at Smorgasburg locations, including Williamsburg.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular recommendations include the Lebanese shawarma from Hen House,
luxury Indian fusion donuts from Knead Some Love NY,
Other favorites mentioned are porchetta and Asian tacos.
Yes, Smorgasburg features a diverse range of vendors, and many offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to check with individual vendors about their specific offerings.
Opinions vary. Some visitors praise the diverse and delicious offerings, while others feel the food is overpriced and has declined in quality over the years, suggesting it's more about the 'vibe' and Instagrammable food. +1
Many vendors are aware of dietary restrictions and may offer gluten-free options or modifications. It's recommended to ask the vendor directly about their ingredients and preparation methods.
Go with friends and share dishes! This allows you to try a wider variety of foods without overspending or overeating.
📸 📸 Photography
The market itself, with its vibrant stalls and diverse food, is a great photo op. The backdrop of the Manhattan skyline across the East River from Marsha P. Johnson State Park also offers stunning views.
Yes, Smorgasburg is known for its visually appealing food presentations, making it a popular spot for food photography. Many vendors create dishes specifically designed to be photogenic.
Late morning or early afternoon often provides good natural light for photos. However, arriving earlier can help you capture shots without as many people in the background.
Drones are generally not permitted in public parks like Marsha P. Johnson State Park without special permits. Always check park regulations before flying any aerial devices.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both close-ups of food and wider shots of the market. A smartphone with a good camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for vendors with simpler options like grilled cheese, fries, or sweet treats. While there aren't dedicated play areas, the park itself offers some open space. It's advisable to go earlier in the day to avoid the largest crowds and potentially find more manageable seating areas. Remember to bring wipes and hand sanitizer, as it's a bustling outdoor market.
💰 Budget Travelers
To manage costs, consider going with a group and sharing dishes to sample more without breaking the bank. Prioritize one or two 'must-try' items that you've researched beforehand. Alternatively, explore nearby neighborhoods like Bushwick or East Williamsburg for more affordable and equally delicious food options.
👫 Couples & Date Ideas
Consider making it a part of a larger Brooklyn exploration. You could combine a visit to Smorgasburg with exploring nearby shops in Williamsburg or enjoying a drink at a local bar. Going on a Saturday morning can offer a more relaxed vibe before the peak afternoon crowds arrive, allowing for more quality time together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Smorgasburg Experience
However, it's important to manage expectations. Many long-time visitors and Reddit users note that Smorgasburg has become increasingly expensive and crowded over the years. While the quality of food is generally good, some feel it doesn't always justify the price point, and the experience can be overwhelming due to the sheer volume of people. Despite these criticisms, many still find it a worthwhile experience, especially for first-time visitors, highlighting the unique vendors and the overall festive ambiance.
To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early on a Saturday to avoid the peak crowds and ensure your preferred vendors haven't sold out. Alternatively, the Friday market at the World Trade Center location is often less crowded. Be prepared for a sensory overload – the sights, sounds, and smells are all part of the Smorgasburg adventure.
Vendor Spotlights: Culinary Gems
Another standout is Everything Oxtail, offering a unique take on Trinidadian pholourie topped with rich oxtail, a dish that has garnered significant attention. For those with a sweet tooth, Knead Some Love NY presents luxurious Indian fusion donuts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious, with flavors like Rose Pistachio and Ras Malai being particular favorites.
Food critics have also raved about the smash burgers from Smashed, noting their perfect crispy edges and juicy interiors. While these are frequently mentioned highlights, the beauty of Smorgasburg lies in its ever-changing lineup and the discovery of new favorites. Reddit threads often feature discussions about hidden gems and long-lost favorites like Shrimp Daddy, encouraging visitors to explore beyond the most popular stalls and find their own culinary treasures.
The Smorgasburg Debate: Hype vs. Reality
However, Reddit discussions frequently offer a more critical perspective. Users often point out that the market has become significantly more expensive and crowded over the years, with some feeling the quality doesn't match the cost. Phrases like 'overpriced,' 'overhyped,' and 'lackluster' appear in multiple threads.
Ultimately, the 'worth it' factor seems to depend on individual priorities. If you're looking for a vibrant, bustling atmosphere with a wide variety of trendy and visually appealing foods, Smorgasburg can be a fantastic experience. If your primary concern is value for money and a more relaxed dining experience, you might find other options more suitable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit