Brooklyn is home to a vibrant and diverse food scene, with fine dining establishments that offer exceptional experiences for every palate. Whether you’re a fan of classic steakhouses, innovative modern cuisine, or international flavours, the borough boasts a wide range of restaurants where you can indulge in world-class food. From elegant settings to creative dishes, Brooklyn’s fine dining scene has something to satisfy every culinary craving.
Table of contents
1. Gage & Tollner
Located in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn, Gage & Tollner is an iconic institution with a rich history. Established in 1879, it is one of Brooklyn’s most beloved steakhouses, known for its classic yet contemporary approach to fine dining. The restaurant has recently been revived, retaining its nostalgic charm while introducing modern elements to its menu and atmosphere. The elegant dining room features velvet booths, brass chandeliers, and intricate woodwork, reflecting the upscale but welcoming ambience.
Gage & Tollner’s menu features an impressive selection of steaks, seafood, and classic American dishes. The interior evokes a sense of grandeur, and the food matches that sense of occasion. You can expect flawlessly cooked steaks, oysters, and expertly prepared cocktails. A key part of the charm is the personalized service, which makes every guest feel special.
Must-try dishes include the dry-aged porterhouse steak, oysters on the half shell, and the famous fried chicken, which is crispy and tender, with a perfect balance of flavours. For dessert, the cheesecake with fresh berries is a crowd favourite.
| Dish | Notes |
| Dry-aged Porterhouse Steak | Cooked to perfection |
| Fried Chicken | Crispy, juicy and flavourful |
| Oysters on the Half-shell | Fresh and briny with a classic sauce |
| Cheesecake with Fresh Berries | Rich, creamy and beautifully plated |
2. Ugly Baby
Ugly Baby is a no-frills Thai restaurant tucked away in Carroll Gardens, and it’s all about bold, spicy flavours. The restaurant’s name may be quirky, but the food is nothing short of extraordinary. Offering a traditional Thai menu with a touch of spice that some might describe as “intense,” Ugly Baby provides an unforgettable dining experience for spice lovers. The space is minimalistic but cosy, with wooden tables and casual decor that feels authentic to its roots.
Known for its adventurous use of spice and unusual flavour combinations, Ugly Baby has become famous for dishes like the ‘Stay Away Spicy’ duck salad and the fiery chilli crab curry. The heat level in many dishes is not for the faint of heart, but it’s perfect for those who love to push their tastebuds to the limit.
Must-try dishes include the ‘Stay Away Spicy’ duck salad, the Pad Thai, and the chilli crab curry. If you enjoy spice, don’t miss the ‘Spicy Stir-Fried Catfish’ — a dish that is flavourful and intense with layers of heat.
| Dish | Notes |
| Stay Away Spicy Duck Salad | Exceptionally spicy with tender duck |
| Pad Thai | A perfect balance of sweet, sour and spice |
| Chilli Crab Curry | Rich, flavourful and incredibly spicy |
| Spicy Stir-fried Catfish | A bold and spicy dish with crispy catfish |
3. Francie
Nestled in Williamsburg, Francie is a contemporary fine-dining restaurant that has made waves since its opening. Known for its sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant combines an elevated menu with sleek, modern decor. The design emphasizes high ceilings, plush seating, and soft lighting that together create an intimate but refined experience.
Francie’s menu is a celebration of both seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, with dishes prepared using French techniques. The food is meticulously plated and beautifully balanced. The kitchen focuses on fine, intricate flavours, offering a contemporary twist on classic French cuisine.
Must-try dishes at Francie include the roasted foie gras, lamb shoulder, and the signature soufflé cake with caviar. The wine list is impressive and pairs wonderfully with every course.
| Dish | Notes |
| Roasted Foie Gras | Rich, buttery and perfectly executed |
| Lamb Shoulder | Tender and juicy, served with fresh vegetables |
| Souffle Cake with Caviar | A luxurious dish, delicate and beautifully plated |
4. Clover Hill
Clover Hill, located in Brooklyn Heights, is a modern American restaurant with a focus on high-quality ingredients and seasonal dishes. The ambience is chic yet comfortable, offering a warm, minimalist aesthetic with soft lighting and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work.
Clover Hill offers an innovative tasting menu, changing regularly to reflect the seasons and the availability of fresh ingredients. Every dish is meticulously crafted to bring out the flavours of each ingredient. The restaurant is particularly known for its seafood-focused dishes and its beautifully plated meals.
Must-try dishes include the scallop aguachile, fluke stuffed with crimini mushrooms, and the incredible smoked duck with corn puree. For dessert, the poached pear with gingerbread is a must.
| Dish | Notes |
| Scallop Aguachile | Fresh, tangy and a perfect balance of flavours |
| Fluke with Crimini Mushrooms | A delicate dish with deep flavours and textures |
| Smoked Duck with Corn Puree | Rich and savoury with sweet corn and tender duck |
| Poached Pear with Gingerbread | A warm, comforting dessert with a spicy kick |
5. K’Far
K’Far, located in the heart of Williamsburg, offers a fresh, modern take on Israeli cuisine. The restaurant is light and airy, with clean lines, modern furniture, and an overall inviting atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for those looking to indulge in Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a laid-back yet upscale setting.
The menu focuses on Israeli comfort food with a twist, offering a mix of fresh vegetables, flavourful spreads, grilled meats, and rich desserts. Dishes are designed to be shared, creating a communal dining experience. K’Far excels in providing vibrant and bold flavours, with ingredients like tahini, hummus, and za’atar featured prominently.
Must-try dishes include the crispy lamb shoulder, hummus with lamb, and the baklava. For those with a sweet tooth, the Turkish Delight ice cream is a must-try.
| Dish | Notes |
| Crispy Lamb Shoulder | Succulent lamb with a crispy, flavourful exterior |
| Hummus with Lamb | Creamy and rich, with tender lamb on top |
| Baklava | Flaky, sweet and deliciously nutty |
| Turkish Delight Ice Cream | A unique and sweet treat for dessert lovers |
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6. Gus’s
Gus’s, a Carroll Gardens gem, specializes in steak and classic American comfort food. The cosy, unpretentious interior, with vintage touches, gives it a homey feel. The menu highlights hearty, indulgent dishes perfect for anyone craving a substantial meal. The dimly lit atmosphere and personalized service make it ideal for a relaxed but upscale dinner experience.
Must-try dishes include the signature bone-in ribeye steak, the creamy mashed potatoes, and the decadent lobster bisque. Gus’s is also known for its Sunday roast, a perfect dish to share with family and friends.
| Dish | Notes |
| Bone-in Ribeye Steak | Juicy, tender and full of flavour |
| Creamy Mashed Potatoes | Smooth, buttery and a great side to any steak |
| Lobster Bisque | Rich, creamy and brimming with lobster flavour |
| Sunday Roast | A hearty, shareable roast for the whole family |
7. Leland Eating and Drinking House
Located in Prospect Heights, Leland Eating and Drinking House offers a mix of contemporary American dishes with a Southern influence. The decor is warm and inviting, with wooden tables and vibrant colours that make it feel like a cosy, upscale diner. The restaurant is popular for its casual vibe but exceptional food, which has earned it a loyal following.
Leland’s menu is inventive, with a strong emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. The dishes are comfort-oriented but elevated to fine dining standards, making it perfect for a casual yet sophisticated night out. Must-try dishes include the duck confit, smoked ribs, and the baked Alaska dessert.
| Dish | Notes |
| Duck Confit | Crsipy skin, tender meat, served with fresh sides |
| Smoked Ribs | Rich, smoky and fall-off-the-bone tender |
| Baked Alaska | A sweet and indulgent classic dessert |
8. Birds of a Feather
Birds of a Feather is a Chinese restaurant located in Williamsburg, offering a unique twist on classic Chinese dishes. The restaurant has a relaxed and modern feel, with contemporary decor that contrasts with its traditional Chinese menu. Its menu blends classic flavours with creative updates, making it a standout in the Brooklyn food scene.
The restaurant’s specialities include authentic Szechuan dishes with bold, spicy flavours. The chefs use high-quality ingredients, giving each dish a distinctive taste. Must-try dishes include the Kung Pao chicken, the crispy duck, and the spicy mapo tofu. Each dish is packed with flavour, offering an exciting culinary experience for adventurous eaters.
| Dish | Notes |
| Kung Pao Chicken | Sweet, spicy and packed with savoury goodness |
| Crispy Duck | Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside |
| Mapo Tofu | Rich, spicy and comforting with deep flavours |
9. Peter Luger Steak House
A Brooklyn classic, Peter Luger is an institution known for serving some of the best steaks in the country. Located in Williamsburg, Peter Luger has been perfecting its craft for over 130 years. The ambience is old-school, with wood panelling, leather booths, and a no-nonsense approach to dining.
Known for its massive, perfectly cooked steaks, Peter Luger serves nothing but the best. Whether you opt for a porterhouse or a ribeye, the meat is consistently tender, juicy, and flavourful. The sides are hearty and perfectly complement the steaks.
Must-try dishes include the signature porterhouse steak, bacon appetizer, and creamed spinach. Make sure to finish with the legendary Luger’s steak sauce.
| Dish | Notes |
| Porterhouse Steak | Tender, flavourful and cooked to perfection |
| Bacon Appetiser | A sizzling, crispy treat |
| Creamed Spinach | Rich and decadent, perfect with the steak |
| Luger’s Steak Sauce | A tangy, savoury addition to any dish |
10. The River Café
Situated on the East River, The River Café offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic, perfect for special occasions. The menu features classic American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients.
The River Café is known for its impeccable service, world-class food, and breathtaking setting. Every dish is beautifully prepared and presented with an eye toward creating a memorable dining experience. Must-try dishes include the lobster tail, foie gras, and the famous chocolate cake, which is decadent and rich.
| Dish | Notes |
| Lobster Tail | Sweet, tender and perfectly cooked |
| Foie Gras | Silky, smooth, served with a delicate sauce |
| Chocolate Cake | Decadent, rich and a perfect end to the meal |
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Dining at Brooklyn’s fine restaurants is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, exploring new flavours, or simply treating yourself to an evening of indulgence, these top-tier restaurants provide the perfect setting. With exceptional food, sophisticated ambience, and attentive service, your visit will be one to remember. For booking the best student accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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FAQs
Fine dining restaurants offer exceptional service, high-quality ingredients, and a refined atmosphere. The experience typically includes attentive service, elegant decor, and meticulously prepared meals that focus on presentation and flavour.
Yes, it’s highly recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends or for popular restaurants. Many fine dining establishments book up quickly, and reservations ensure you get a table at your preferred time.
Fine dining restaurants usually have a smart-casual to formal dress code. Men often wear collared shirts or suits, while women may opt for dresses or upscale casual attire. Always check the restaurant’s dress code policy before going.
Weekdays, especially early in the evening, tend to be less crowded than weekends. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, try to book a reservation during the earlier part of the evening. Weekend nights are typically busier, especially at popular restaurants.
Yes, fine dining establishments in Brooklyn can be pricey, but the experience and the quality of food often justify the cost. Expect higher menu prices, especially for premium ingredients like aged steaks, fresh seafood, and rare wines.
Many fine-dining restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. The menus often cater to various dietary restrictions, and chefs are happy to accommodate requests for plant-based meals if they aren’t on the standard menu.
Brooklyn’s fine dining scene features a wide variety of cuisines, including American, French, Mediterranean, Israeli, Asian fusion, and more. The borough is known for its diverse food scene, so you’ll find everything from classic steak houses to contemporary interpretations of international dishes.
Yes, many fine dining restaurants in Brooklyn offer tasting menus, which allow guests to experience a variety of dishes in smaller portions. This is an excellent way to try multiple flavours and specialities from the restaurant’s menu.
While dress codes vary by restaurant, most fine dining venues in Brooklyn expect patrons to wear upscale attire. This typically means no casual wear such as shorts, flip-flops, or T-shirts. Some restaurants may have a “smart casual” dress code, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand.
Yes, most fine-dining restaurants in Brooklyn offer wine pairings to complement their dishes. Sommeliers often recommend wines that enhance the flavours of the food, and some restaurants even offer wine pairings as part of a tasting menu.
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