As settlers from across the East River continue their march on Williamsburg, the long-gone frontier spirit becomes an even more distant memory while the hipness factor keeps inching up a notch or two. This shiny railcar-style diner in the heart of Billyburg looks unimposing from the outside, but once inside you'll see why Relish appeals to both neighborhood residents and frequent visitors. Part Florent-style diner, part plush Lower East Side night-spot, little Relish has a satisfying menu, flattering lighting and comfy booths. The gilded walls and plush banquettes of the warmly lit back-room lounge beckon imbibers past the diners up front. Relish is known for its martinis, especially the Metropolitan, made with Absolut Kurant, Cassis, cranberry and lime juice and Grand Marnier. — Charles Runnette
5.8
"Mixed Reviews" Average Reader Rating on a Scale of 10
There was a time in here when a diner was a great place to catch up with your old man after not seeing him for a long time. Somewhere you didnt have to worry about fitting into some new, flashy art scene, someplace you could just grab a late cup of coffee and share a couple jokes.
I went into Relish with my father (from New York) last night and was given the hardest time you could imagine. The asian male bartender told me more to less to keep it down. He must not know my family. The waitress had absolutely zero wit to her, did not understand us. A strange reality when we were standing right in Brooklyn. Then told us they had stopped serving. We were selected out. A sad, sad truth. Our City has changed, taking the diner scene with it.
Quaint diner-car cuteness doesn't make up for waitstaff's rudeness
Relish is cute (but drafty during the cold months) and has decent food, but I won't be returning anytime soon. In the past year, I've gone there 3 times and each time I was met with ruder-than-usual service: bartenders who ignore customers sitting right in FRONT of them (at the BAR) while they talk to their co-workers; servers who can't be found when you need them, even if you've waited and waited 5 minutes for cream for your coffee, or that side of mayo you requested when you ordered your burger. The last time I was there, the bartender seemed actually put out when we ordered another round of DRINKS. Isn't that how he makes money - on drink orders? If you're looking for a nice, stress-free brunch, lunch, or dinner in Williamsburg, don't look at Relish.