0 Followers
Henry's End
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Henry's End
8.6
Henry's End is a long-running Brooklyn Heights bistro known for wild game, pepper steaks and hearty, sauce-driven plates in a cozy brick-walled space. Neighborhood regulars treat it as a reliable spot for carnivorous date nights and old-school comfort that predates the current restaurant boom.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak au poivre, Duckling in honey-soy, Walnut-crusted chicken breast
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Decades-old Brooklyn Heights institution for game-focused plates and peppery steaks.
Who should go: Meat lovers craving classic, hearty plates in a cozy room.
When to visit: Cool-weather evenings when rich sauces and game feel perfect.
What to order: Steak au poivre, wild game special, walnut-crusted chicken.
Insider tip: Visit during the seasonal wild game menu for the full experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Brooklyn Heights is limited, especially after 6pm; no valet. Allow extra time or use nearby garages on Henry St or Atlantic Ave.
Dress code: Smart casual; sweaters, button-downs and dark denim fit the cozy, classic vibe.
Noise level: Moderate; the intimate brick-walled room stays lively but conversation with your date is still easy.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; the small dining room fills quickly.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; Henry's End is dinner-focused and generally quiet early in the evening on weekdays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited; a few non-meat plates and sides but the menu is largely steak and game-focused.
Vegan options: Very limited; expect to rely on salads and vegetable sides rather than full entrées.
Gluten-free options: Moderate; several grilled items and proteins can be made gluten-free, but sauces may contain flour—ask your server for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The intimate lighting, warm service and classic bistro feel help set an easy, conversation-friendly tone without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weekdays if you arrive early, but weekends often require reservations due to the small dining room and neighborhood regulars.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat; older kids and teens who enjoy hearty dishes will be comfortable, but the cozy room and game-heavy menu are not tailored for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Rich, old-school comfort dishes and wild game plates you won't find at more polished or modern steakhouses nearby.
Skip if: You want a sleek, modern steakhouse with broad dietary flexibility or prefer lighter, contemporary menus.
Henry's End
8.2
A Brooklyn Heights fixture since the early 1970s, Henry’s End is better known for seasonal game and bistro fare, but its burger-and-fries plate has quietly become a neighborhood favorite. The fries here skew classic and crisp rather than heaped or gimmicky, matching the restaurant’s old-school dining room and serious wine list. It’s where locals end up when they want a proper sit-down dinner that still includes a very good side of fries.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smash-style burger with fries, Grilled steak with fries, Seasonal special with fries on the side
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Long-running Brooklyn Heights bistro where a serious burger comes with well-executed fries.
Who should go: Diners wanting bistro cooking with a classic fries moment.
When to visit: Dinner reservations on cooler evenings or special occasions.
What to order: Smash burger with fries, a seasonal entree, glass of wine.
Insider tip: Book earlier seatings for a quieter room and more attention to pacing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Brooklyn Heights, especially after 6pm; nearby paid garages on Henry St. and Clinton St. are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual; diners tend to lean slightly dressy due to the bistro setting and long-running neighborhood reputation.
Noise level: Moderate; conversations are generally easy, though peak weekend dinners can get lively without becoming overwhelming.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–45 minute wait without a reservation, especially between 6:30–8pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait; walk-ins are typically seated immediately or within a few minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — a few composed vegetarian dishes and sides are available, though the menu leans protein-forward.
Vegan options: Limited — vegan guests may rely on select sides or modifications; it is not a core focus.
Gluten-free options: Yes — several proteins and salads are naturally gluten-free; staff is accustomed to handling gluten considerations.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the charming, slightly old-school room, polished service, and strong wine list make it a confident pick for a first date that feels intentional without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly — early seatings and weeknights are most forgiving. On weekends, walk-ins should expect a wait unless arriving right at opening.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — while families are welcome, the atmosphere leans adult and date-oriented. Older kids who can sit through a full bistro meal fit best; there are no dedicated kids’ amenities.
Best For
Better for: A classic sit-down experience with well-crafted fries and a serious wine list — ideal for diners who want elevated comfort food in a polished neighborhood institution.
Skip if: You’re seeking a casual fries-first spot, large portions of pub-style fries, or a room with more bustle and energy; nearby pubs and fast-casual spots will suit those needs better.
Henry's End
8.7
Opened in the late 1970s, Henry’s End is a Brooklyn Heights institution known for a compact, brick-walled dining room and a menu that leans into wild game, hearty pastas, and classics like steak au poivre. The space is intimate and a little old-school, which reads as charmingly romantic rather than flashy. Couples who care more about rich, well-executed plates and a deep wine list than skyline views gravitate here.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak au Poivre, Grilled Duck with Blackberry Sauce, Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Long-running neighborhood bistro doing rich game dishes in a candlelit room.
Who should go: Couples craving cozy, old-school romance and hearty plates
When to visit: Weeknight dinners for quieter dates; weekends feel livelier
What to order: Steak au poivre, blackberry duck, butternut squash ravioli
Insider tip: If you like game, time your visit around their seasonal wild game menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Brooklyn Heights is limited, especially after 6pm; no valet. Plan extra time or use nearby garages on Henry St or Atlantic Ave.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; button-downs, blouses, and nice sweaters fit the room. Jeans are acceptable if paired with elevated pieces.
Noise level: Moderate; intimate enough for date-night conversation but can get gently lively during weekend rush.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; dinner-focused restaurant with no typical weekday lunch service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few thoughtfully prepared options, typically including pastas and seasonal vegetable dishes.
Vegan options: Very limited; menu leans heavily toward game and classic bistro fare.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes can be prepared gluten-free; staff is familiar with modifications but no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its candlelit, cozy room creates an intimate tone without feeling overly formal, ideal for a relaxed, conversation-forward first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weeknights if you go early, but walk-ins on weekends often face waits. Reservations are strongly recommended for peak dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; the room is intimate and tailored more to adults. Older teens may be fine, but it’s not designed for young children.
Best For
Better for: Cozy, old-school romance with rich, well-executed game dishes and an impressive wine list—ideal for couples preferring substance over skyline views.
Skip if: You want modern, airy dining rooms, vegan-friendly menus, or waterfront scenery; choose a more contemporary or view-driven restaurant instead.
Henry's End
8.5
Opened in 1973, Henry's End is a Brooklyn Heights institution with a brick-walled dining room, seasonal New American cooking, and a long-running wild game festival. Regulars treat it as the neighborhood's special-occasion bistro, especially for rich plates, an award-winning wine list, and warm, attentive service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Elk Chop, Turtle Soup, Mud Pie dessert
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Long-running neighborhood bistro known for wild game and a deep wine list.
Who should go: Couples and small groups wanting cozy, old-school Brooklyn charm.
When to visit: Fall and winter evenings, especially during the Wild Game Festival.
What to order: Elk Chop, Turtle Soup, Mud Pie to share for dessert.
Insider tip: Reserve ahead during game season; limited tables fill quickly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Henry Street and surrounding blocks is available but tight during peak dinner hours; no valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual; sweaters, button-downs, and dressy jeans fit the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate; conversation is easy at most tables though the room buzzes at peak hours.
Weekend wait: Walk-ins often face a 30–45 minute wait; reservations are strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — the restaurant is dinner-focused and not open for lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A handful of vegetarian starters and seasonal entrées are available, but the menu leans meat-heavy.
Vegan options: Very limited; you may find one or two adaptable sides or salads, but options are sparse.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes can be made gluten-free on request; staff is knowledgeable about modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the cozy brick-walled room, warm service, and intimate lighting make it a strong pick for early dates where conversation and comfort matter.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, but expect a wait on weekends. Weeknights are more forgiving, though booking ahead is still wise during the Wild Game Festival.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited for adults; no dedicated kids menu and the intimate room is geared toward date nights and small adult groups.
Best For
Better for: Richer seasonal plates, wild game specialties, and a warm neighborhood feel that outshines trendier or more formal Brooklyn Heights options.
Skip if: You prefer lighter, plant-forward menus or want a modern, high-design dining room rather than a classic bistro atmosphere.
Henry's End
8.4
Henry’s End is a Brooklyn Heights institution dating back to the early 1970s, known for a brick-walled dining room, wild game festival, and a serious wine list. It’s the neighborhood’s go-to for anniversaries and family celebrations where rich plates and warm, old-school hospitality matter more than views.
Must-Try Dishes:
Elk chop, Turtle soup, Mud pie
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Decades-old bistro serving wild game and classics in a candlelit room.
Who should go: Couples and families who love rich, old-school plates.
When to visit: Fall and winter evenings, especially during wild game season.
What to order: Elk chop, turtle soup, house mud pie for dessert.
Insider tip: Book well ahead for the annual Wild Game Festival; it fills quickly.
Henry's End
8.4
Henry's End is a Brooklyn Heights institution dating back to the 1970s, known for its seasonal American menu, wild game specials, and a long-standing commitment to sourcing from quality farms and markets. Regulars come for hearty plates, an award-winning wine list, and a cozy, tightly packed dining room that feels more like a neighborhood clubhouse than a polished newcomer.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duckling with Raspberry Sauce, Wild Game Mixed Grill, Cayenne Corn Crab Cakes
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Decades-old seasonal spot with farm-driven game dishes and deep wine list.
Who should go: Locals and visitors chasing classic, hearty seasonal cooking.
When to visit: Weeknights or early weekends before the room gets loud.
What to order: Raspberry duckling, wild game plate, corn crab cakes.
Insider tip: Book during the Wild Game Festival for the most distinctive menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on Henry Street and generally tight after 6pm; nearby garage options on Cadman Plaza are the most reliable.
Dress code: Smart casual; sweaters, button-downs, and jeans are all common, but guests often lean slightly dressy for evening visits.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak dinner service; conversation is possible but close seating means it can get energetic.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially during seasonal game specials.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable, as lunch service is not typically offered; early weekday dinners usually have minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A handful of well-composed vegetarian dishes appear seasonally, though the menu leans hearty and protein-forward.
Vegan options: Limited options; some sides and salads can be adapted but the restaurant is not strongly vegan-oriented.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes are naturally gluten-free, and staff can guide substitutions, but there is no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want cozy intimacy and conversation around classic cooking. The small room and warm lighting create an inviting atmosphere, though it can get lively during peak hours.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekend evenings and festival periods almost always require a reservation to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Older kids and teens familiar with adventurous or hearty dishes may enjoy it, but the tight layout and game-focused menu make it less ideal for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Hearty, seasonal American cooking with depth—particularly wild game dishes—and a wine list curated for pairings that outperform more modern or minimalist neighborhood spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet room, vegan-friendly dining, or wide-open seating; consider alternatives with more space or lighter menus instead.