ZipPicks Awards
Best BBQ in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best BBQ Ribs in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Master Critic Review
Brooklyn BBQ
7.6
Brooklyn BBQ sits off Cadman Plaza serving platters of smoked brisket, ribs, chicken and wings with classic sides. Locals treat it as a straightforward neighborhood spot for big-format barbecue plates and pitchers rather than a destination smokehouse.
Must-Try Dishes:
Three-meat combo plate, Brisket panini, Sticky or Hennessy wings
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.3
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Casual Brooklyn Heights smokehouse with full platters and a beer-friendly setup.
Who should go: Groups craving classic smoked meats near the promenade.
When to visit: Evenings on non-game nights for shorter waits.
What to order: Three-meat combo, brisket panini, sticky or Hennessy wings.
Insider tip: Share a combo platter and add extra sides instead of ordering solo plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Cadman Plaza is limited during peak hours; meters are easier to find on adjacent residential blocks after 7pm. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; jeans, tees and light layers are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate; lively during evenings but still possible to hold a normal conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 25-40 minutes during peak hours, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; walk right up to the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few sides like mac and cheese, cornbread and greens, but limited full vegetarian entrées.
Vegan options: Very limited; most items rely on meat or dairy-heavy sides.
Gluten-free options: Reasonable options with smoked meats and select sides, but no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It's better for casual hangouts than romantic first dates. The setting is relaxed, portions are hearty and the focus is more on comfort-food energy than ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. Most diners walk in, and groups can usually find space after a short wait during peak dinner times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Big plates, simple sides and a relaxed environment work well for families with kids of all ages; outdoor seating is especially helpful for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Great for straightforward platters, group meetups and casual pitchers without the premium pricing or wait times of destination smokehouses.
Consider Alternatives If: If you’re seeking competition-level barbecue, long-smoked brisket depth or chef-driven specials, you may prefer a more specialized barbecue spot.