ZipPicks Awards
Best Korean in Williamsburg
Master Critic Review
East Hae
8.3
Korean gastropub and rooftop above N 6th Street where grilled seafood, kalbi, and bar snacks meet strong cocktails and Williamsburg skyline views. Diners come for sharing plates, happy hour, and a lively, late-night crowd in a two-level space that feels more like a bar-with-serious-food than a traditional restaurant.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chargrilled oysters with garlic miso butter, Korean fried chicken wings with gochujang glaze, Bulgogi ssaam platter
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Korean gastropub and rooftop with wood-fired plates and strong cocktails.
Who should go: Date nights, small groups, and cocktail-first Korean fans.
When to visit: Golden-hour happy hour or late-night rooftop sessions.
What to order: Chargrilled oysters, gochujang wings, bulgogi ssaam.
Insider tip: Target weekday happy hour at the bar for half-price food and drinks.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on N 6th and nearby avenues, especially evenings; expect to rely on metered street parking or nearby garages within a few blocks — no on-site valet.
Dress code: Smart-casual and slightly dressy; jeans are fine but most guests lean polished for rooftop and date-night seating.
Noise level: Lively and loud during peak and late-night hours — conversation is possible at tables but can be tough at the bar or rooftop.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation during peak hours, especially for rooftop seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait — daytime and early evening are the easiest times to walk in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some small plates and sides can work for vegetarians, but the menu skews seafood and meat-forward — confirm with staff when ordering.
Vegan options: Very limited — a few dishes may be modifiable, but this is not a strong vegan destination.
Gluten-free options: Select grilled seafood and protein dishes can be gluten-lean with modifications, but cross-contact is likely — ask staff about sauces and marinades.
Best For
Better for: Cocktail-centric Korean dining, rooftop energy, and shareable plates in a social, late-night setting.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet dinner, extensive vegan or gluten-free options, or a family-oriented restaurant environment.