James O'Brien, the restaurateur behind the popular Italian restaurant Popina in Cobble Hill, has signed a lease for 2,000 square feet at Naftali Group's Williamsburg Wharf to open a new wine bar, the developer announced on Tuesday. The as-yet-unnamed wine bar is expected to begin operations at 484 Kent Avenue in 2027.
The lease term and rental rates were not disclosed. However, according to the Real Estate Board of New York's 2025 Brooklyn Retail Report, the average asking rent for retail space in Williamsburg north of Sixth Street was recently $400 per square foot.
Strategic Waterfront Partnership
Miki Naftali, Chairman and CEO of Naftali, stated that O'Brien has a reputation for creating restaurants deeply rooted in their communities. He expressed excitement about partnering for a completely new concept at Williamsburg Wharf. Naftali spoke of the genuine following Popina has built in Brooklyn, expressing confidence that the new offering would further strengthen the sense of community and authenticity that defines the meticulously designed waterfront location in Williamsburg.
Restaurant industry consultancy Friend of Chef represented both Naftali and O’Brien in the deal. The names of the brokers involved were not immediately available, and a spokesperson for Friend of Chef did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Commercial Observer.
Williamsburg Wharf Development and Overall Concept
Williamsburg Wharf is a 3.75-acre resort-style residential development on the waterfront, comprising 950 residential units – both for sale and for rent, with a portion designated as affordable housing. The first phase of the project was completed last year, with full completion scheduled for 2028. Numerous retail tenants are already located along Williamsburg Wharf.
- —The Goods Mart
- —Breads Bakery
- —Naked Tomato, a new restaurant expected to open later this year
O’Brien expressed enthusiasm in a statement about the opportunity to be part of the Williamsburg Wharf development. He emphasised the uniqueness of the waterfront location and the hope of creating a place people would always want to return to. He looked forward to welcoming the neighbourhood and becoming part of this new community.
