How Please Tell Me Perfects the Art of Casual Cool in East Williamsburg
Photo Courtesy of James Huang
Tucked into an unassuming restaurant front in East Williamsburg, Please Tell Me is the kind of spot you wander into on a lazy afternoon and never want to leave. Inspired by Japanese listening rooms and Brazilian flavors, this intimate bar and restaurant offers a soulful blend of sound, food, and community. Founded by neighbors and DJs Austin Woolridge and Eric Griego, the space has quickly become a local favorite since opening in Fall 2023, thanks to its natural wines, curated DJ sets powered by a top-tier HiFi system, and bold Brazilian bites from Chef David Sedycias through its culinary partnership with Mané co-created by Chef David and Alex Lee. A Mediterranean-minimalist interior sets the vibe, while Beverage Director Kiara De Leon brings tropical flair and Dominican spirit to a cocktail menu that’s as playful as it is polished.
We kicked things off with the mané mai thai, a signature cocktail made with Ten to One white and dark rum, dry curaçao, macadamia orgeat, lime, and a coconut whip cream finish. Equal parts sweet, strong, and unexpected, it was the perfect drink to match the bar’s vibe. To eat, we tried the queijo coalho grilled cheese skewer with honey, oregano, and chili oil, no bread needed or missed. Then came the batatas fritas, a genius mix of Yukon and sweet potato fries tossed with hot dog ends and served with malagueta pepper ketchup and aioli. Think street food with a gourmet twist. But the dish that stole the show? The grilled kale, charred to perfection and served with Brazilian honey and a luscious brazil nut/cashew cream foam. It was comforting and refined, almost like a creamed kale reimagined.
Enjoying sun at Please Tell Me’s wine window
No trip to Please Tell Me is complete without stopping by the wine window, which has become a defining feature of the space, and the first of its kind in New York. Inspired by the buchette del vino of Florence, Italy, this charming window opens up in warmer months for guests to order glasses of wine on the go. The selection spans far beyond the usual suspects, with natural wines from Mexico, Japan, and Slovenia via Zev Rovine Selections. There’s something undeniably delightful about receiving your drink through a tiny window, then sipping it on the sidewalk like it’s a secret neighborhood ritual, one that connects strangers with a shared love of sunshine and bubbly.
DJ booth at Please Tell Me
We had an absolute blast at Please Tell Me, from the playful bites and bold cocktails to the unbeatable energy that fills every corner of the space. It’s the kind of place that lingers with you long after you leave, and honestly, we’re already making up excuses to go back (do we need a reason?). Whether you’re there for brunch, beats, or just a glass of wine from the window, it’s a guaranteed good time.
For more information, visit www.pleasetellme.nyc.
Photos Courtesy of Stephanie Carino and James Huang
Please Tell Me
📍 820 Hart St, Brooklyn, NY 11237
📞 (929) 593-9916
🕐 Monday–Friday: 5PM–Late
🕐 Saturday & Sunday: 12PM–Late
🍹 Happy Hour: Mon–Fri 5–8PM, All Day Sunday
