North 1st St, Williamsburg

North 1st is great because it's a few blocks away from the main area of Willy but it's still close enough to the action. I like this area the most out of any of the Bedford stop sections because it's so much quieter than, say, around North 7th. It's still dirty and sketchy, but that's Willburg for ya. The rent isn't really any cheaper down this way, but you don't have to worry nearly as much about Pratt kids drunkenly yelling outside your window all hours of the night every single night of the week. In my opinion, that is worth paying the same rent alone. Also, the apartments are pretty crummy down this way so I would expect a walkup if you're looking to rent. I went to a BBQ once on North 1st and Wythe and the apartment was this crappy little studio with a massive backyard. I thought it was so cool because yards are a rarity in New York. So, the point of my cute story is that you can find some real gems on and around North 1st if you put in the legwork.
The best part about N 1st, in my opinion, is the Nitehawk Theatre. It just opened this year, and I can't tell you how exciting it is for Williamsburg to finally have a friggin movie theatre. And, it's a super cool movie theatre. There is a fantastic menu and cocktails named after the movies playing. I had pulled pork sandwiches and watched Midnight in Paris. It was a really delightful night. And, then if you live in the neighborhood, you can just walk home! The Nitehawk only plays independent films but I doubt anyone that lives in this neighborhood goes to big budget junk anyway so it suits the street perfectly.
The street can be a little scary at night because there aren't as many people out in this neck of the woods, so I wouldn't do a lot of late night walking. Oh, and there aren't any markets or conveniences around North 1st so that's a real pain in the neck. But, it's directly between both subway lines and it's definitely quieter and a little more mature than the North 7th area.

On North First Street, you’re getting closer to the heart of things in the neighborhood. As far as restaurants on the street go, there is China Noodle and Muffins N More. China Noodle is pretty much your standard New York noodle shop (as far as I know they offer free delivery). Muffins N More is a wholesale bakery that sells any muffin imaginable in bulk, which is perhaps good to know if you’re planning on throwing a party that involves muffins.