The Williamsburg dining scene has a new entrant with the opening of Cafe Bar J.F., a South American-focused tavern that takes over the location previously occupied by Llama Inn at 50 Withers Street, near Meeker Avenue. Llama Inn, known for its modern Peruvian cuisine, was founded in 2015 by restaurateur Juan Correa and chef Erik Ramirez. The establishment closed in late 2025.

Cafe Bar J.F. maintains a connection to the former restaurant, as it remains under the guidance of Correa and Ramirez, preserving a familial continuity at the address. The new venue shifts the concept slightly toward a broader South American tavern style, though specific details on the menu and beverage offerings have yet to be widely disclosed.

The transition marks a notable change for Williamsburg’s restaurant offerings, which have evolved significantly over the past decade. Llama Inn was part of the neighborhoodโ€™s early wave of culinary destinations that helped establish Williamsburg as a food destination. Cafe Bar J.F. aims to contribute to the area’s ongoing restaurant diversity.

The tavern opened its doors on Wednesday, May 13. It is expected to serve as a casual spot for locals and visitors interested in South American flavors beyond the Peruvian focus of its predecessor. This development reflects a broader trend in Brooklyn, where restaurateurs are exploring new concepts while maintaining ties to established culinary roots.

Editorial Transparency. A first draft of this story was produced with AI-assisted writing tools, then reviewed for accuracy and tone by the named editor before publication. More on our process: Editorial Policy.

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