A new South American-inspired tavern, Cafe Bar J.F., has opened at 50 Withers Street in Williamsburg, taking over the location previously occupied by Llama Inn. Llama Inn, which launched in 2015, was known for its modern take on Peruvian cuisine under the guidance of restaurateur Juan Correa and chef Erik Ramirez. The restaurant closed its doors in late 2025.

Despite the closure, the space remains under Correa’s oversight as Cafe Bar J.F. seeks to offer a different approach to South American dining. The new establishment leans toward a tavern concept, expanding beyond the Peruvian focus of its predecessor to incorporate a broader range of South American flavors. The exact menu details have not been widely publicized, but the venture signals a shift in dining style and atmosphere.

Cafe Bar J.F. is located at the intersection of Withers Street and Meeker Avenue, a neighborhood that has seen significant culinary activity in recent years. Williamsburg continues to attract new restaurant concepts, maintaining its reputation as a diverse dining destination.

The transition from Llama Inn to Cafe Bar J.F. highlights a common trend in New York’s restaurant scene, where spaces evolve to meet changing consumer preferences. Both concepts remain connected through Correa’s involvement, suggesting a continuity of vision despite the change in format and focus.

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.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Weekly stories, neighborhood notes, and what's opening this week.