Sundays in Williamsburg

Spent 2 back-to-back Sundays in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. A little background on Williamsburg for my GA readers: It's only one stop from Manhattan on the L train, and I can actually walk there from my apt. (you just cross the East River via the Williamsburg Bridge). During my time in NYC, Williamsburg has definitely evolved. 10+ years ago it was a place artists, musicians & poor, starving advertising folks lived for cheaper rents and/or larger spaces than Manhattan. Lately the neighborhood’s popularity has skyrocketed, and development has followed… many new stores, restaurants, bars & luxury apartment buildings have cropped up. Since I don’t live in Brooklyn, it’s not really my place to say whether the changes are for the better or worse, but the difference has been noticed. There’s even a parody musical now about Williamsburg.

Went to hear Stones in Pockets at Luna Lounge on Sunday, Aug. 12. Band sounded like a mellow version of Stone Temple Pilots or Chris Cornell. The original Luna Lounge was located on the Lower East Side, and it played a significant role in the NYC music scene. This 2nd generation Luna Lounge is brand-spanking new. Not all NY clubs are dives, but they usually at least having a lived-in, puked-on feel. The new Luna Lounge is a nice venue, but you could eat off the floors. After the show, went to Dumont Burger for a cheeseburger. PS - I had bloodwork done last week; I’m afraid to get the results cholesterol test.

Had brunch at Roebling Tea Room Sunday, Aug. 19. It's silly to think of Williamsburg with a tea room, but they served some really amazing grits. I honestly thought I was back in GA. Headed to McCarren Pool, a gigantic public pool that is now empty and used as a summer concert venue: bands are at one side and people stand in the empty pool in front of the stage. I feel comfortable using the word “gigantic” to describe the space because it’s a 6-acre pool that’s 3 times larger than an Olympic-size swimming pool. There’s a Slip ‘n Slide and some other water stuff for fun. However that Sunday was rainy and 60 degrees (not optimal for water sports or outdoor events). Headlining band was Ghostland Observatory from Austin. The frontman has a stage presence that's like a Mick Jagger - Rick James combination. Props to them for captivating a crowd's attention in the rain. After the concert, went to Matchless for a beer and ate dinner at a Polish place on Bedford Avenue.

The stage at McCarren Pool.