If you need an excuse to head out to Red Hook - that pocket of Brooklyn that feels like its own little alternate universe at the edge of the city (and I mean that in the most complimentary way possible) - this is it. Red Hook Tavern’s thoughtful nod to Peter Luger’s lunch burger has, in some ways, eclipsed the legendary original it pays homage to, cementing itself as a destination worth the trek.
The Burger: Dry-Aged Red Hook Tavern Burger (Tier 1). American cheese, white onion, cottage fries. This is a simply done masterpiece. A plump 8oz 75/25 patty is seasoned with salt and pepper and cooked to a chef-recommended medium rare, developing a peppery crust while staying perfectly pink and juicy inside. It’s blanketed evenly with melty American cheese and gently set atop a thin wheel of raw white onion, all held together by a sesame seed bun that is truly something special. To (allegedly) quote the great Reggie Jackson, it’s “the straw that stirs the drink”, the one “who puts the meat in the seats” (literally). The bun has a firm, lightly charred exterior with a soft, dense interior that maintains integrity while soaking up the juices. Without it, the greatness of the meat would be muted. The dry-aged patty brings a subtle, savory funk while remaining rich, beefy, and perfectly balanced, allowing the seasoning and texture to shine. The white onion adds just the right bite without overpowering, and the American cheese is abundant. On the side: textbook cottage fries, generously seasoned with salt and pepper. Simple and perfect.
Pro Tip: Start with the shrimp cocktail (bright, cold, and refreshing), then the burger, and finish with rainbow cookies — a three-course trademark. The burger is a regular menu item (not a “limited count”), but demand is high. Prime-time reservations are competitive. Walk-ins are possible, but expect hours-long waits at peak times. Aim for off-hours, and you should be able to snag a seat without a problem.
The Occasion & Vibe: Stepping inside feels like entering an impeccably preserved New York tavern. Warm oak runs throughout, its grain visible across the bar, tables, and exterior, giving the space a golden tone and sturdy elegance. A pressed tin ceiling overhead adds classic character, while worn black wood floors bring a lived-in charm. Light filters through the window blinds, brightening a room that otherwise feels cozy and intimate. The open kitchen crackles in the back, and the whole space balances polish with familiarity.
The Location: Red Hook, Van Brunt Street & Sullivan Street.