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Bison & Bourbon
Master Critic Review
Bison & Bourbon
8.4
Bison & Bourbon is a large kosher steakhouse on the Gowanus–Park Slope border where bourbon-glazed ribs and short rib specials share the menu with big-format steaks and cocktails. With a dramatic warehouse-style dining room and highly photographed outdoor patio, it’s become a go-to for celebrations where kosher diners still want serious smoke, sear, and showpiece rib platters.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bourbon BBQ ribs, Tomahawk short rib, Short rib tortellini
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A sprawling kosher steakhouse where bourbon-lacquered ribs, short rib creations, and a dramatic courtyard make it a destination.
Who should go: Kosher diners and groups seeking celebratory steakhouse-style ribs.
When to visit: Prime evenings for buzz, earlier weeknights for a calmer feel.
What to order: Bourbon BBQ ribs, tomahawk short rib, short rib tortellini.
Insider tip: Book the outdoor patio on warm nights—ribs, cocktails, and the courtyard lighting feel tailor-made for photos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm; nearby paid garages on 3rd Ave are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual—most diners lean polished; dark denim is fine, but athletic wear feels out of place.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is possible at smaller tables, but weekend nights skew loud due to the warehouse acoustics.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though the restaurant operates limited midday hours depending on season.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several salads, small plates, and a few pasta-style items offer workable vegetarian options.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes involve meat or dairy; a couple of appetizers and sides can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Good support—many steaks, ribs, and salads are naturally gluten-free; staff is accustomed to requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its dramatic dining room, cocktails, and polished service create a strong first-date setting, especially if you’re aiming for upscale but lively.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights, but weekends are heavily booked; walk-ins may wait an hour or more, and patio seats are rarely available without advance planning.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—high chairs and spacious tables exist, but the menu is geared toward adults and the noise level rises on weekends; better for older kids or special-occasion family dinners.
Best For
Better for: Kosher diners wanting a true steakhouse atmosphere with showpiece rib dishes and one of the most photogenic patios in the neighborhood.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, casual pricing, or classic Southern-style BBQ—several smaller neighborhood smokehouses will serve those needs better.