Set the scene.
Williamsburg’s beloved institution, JR & Son, recently swung its doors open once more, welcoming guests back to 575 Lorimer Street after closing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Diners should expect a reimagined menu, reverent design restoration, and a deep respect for the building’s tavern roots.
Design duo Nico Arze and Matthew Maddy (known for their work on Kellogg’s Diner and Lillia) have breathed new life into the 50-seat space while preserving its well-worn soul. Original black-and-white tiled floors, vintage ceiling panels, and decades of memorabilia–including sticker-bombed walls and photos of regulars–have lovingly been maintained.
First opened in 1936, the bar and restaurant blend old-school charm with modern culinary flair–and it’s ready for its next chapter.
Let’s break it down–wine, food, and everything in between.
At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Patricia Vega, previously of Thai Diner and Cafe Colette, whose menu offers a soulful mix of Italian-American classics and elevated tavern staples. Her approach is rooted in tradition but executed with polish (and even a bit of Thai influence on the spices and garnishes front).
Bread service kicks off the meal with Green Olive Focaccia and Garlic + Herb Parker House Rolls, and guests’ choice of butter or olive oil.
Then move to the raw bar offerings–Shrimp Cocktail, ½ Lobster Cocktail, Clams, and Oysters–or opt for something like the Stuffed Clams or Arancini Salad, composed of smoked mozzarella, watercress, and radicchio.
The pasta offerings are curated yet plentiful, with options ranging from Cacio e Pepe, Risotto with sun-dried tomato and artichokes, and very classic Spaghetti & Meatballs.
The early favorites seem to be Ravioli stuffed with mint ricotta and topped with English peas plus Parmigiano Reggiano, and Paccheri with lobster fra diavolo sauce. The latter has a kick of spice, the likes of which guests may have only found at a Thai restaurant.
Entrees revolve around surf and turf, from true Italian crowd-pleasers such as Chicken Parm to meaty tavern plates: the Junior’s Burger with steamed onions, American cheese, and shredded lettuce on a sesame bun, or Skirt Steak arranged atop a bed of rosemary butter.
Pastry Chef Amanda Perdomo turns out whimsical, reimagined Italian dolci. The Rainbow Cookie Layer Cake is a hot commodity (and also happens to be vegan), and the Orange Amaro Tiramisu provides a citrusy twist on a beloved, decadent dessert. Don’t skip the nostalgic cookie plate that would make any nonna proud.
Behind the bar, the cocktail program leans classic but adventurous with amaro-forward drinks and names referencing Italian-American pop culture. The Love Theme From Spartacus is spritzy with sparkling wine, cocchi americano, pasubio, and rosemary, while Strawberry Letter 23 is JR & Son’s take on a Negroni, with gin, strawberry amaro, campari, and lemon.
Final thoughts?
JR & Son is back–not as a reboot, but as a revival. This sceny neighborhood watering hole is a time capsule that knows where it’s been but toasts to where it’s going.
Top Takeaways:
Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Address: 575 Lorimer Street, Brooklyn, NY
Cuisine: Italian American
The vibe: Old-school Brooklyn tavern charm meets the sophistication demanded by the city’s current dining scene.
Pricing: $$
Takes reservations? While primarily geared toward walk-ins, reservations can be made via Resy.
Our favorite dish on the menu: The Arancini Salad is highly recommended by the waitstaff and truly unlike anything you’ve tried before. You can’t go wrong with any of the pasta or the Skirt Steak…and never skip dessert.
The attire: Smart Casual
Hours: JR & Son is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM. An abbreviated late-night menu will be available until 1:00 AM.
