ZipPicks Awards
Best BBQ Ribs in Greenpoint
Master Critic Review
Bernie's
8.4
Bernie's is a retro Greenpoint tavern opened in 2018 where baby back ribs share the spotlight with martinis, wedge salads, and other nostalgic comfort dishes. Locals use it as a go-to third place for celebratory dinners and game nights, and the ribs arrive generously sauced with a straightforward, crowd-pleasing barbecue profile.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baby Back Ribs with barbecue sauce and pickles, Cheeseburger deluxe with fries, Wedge salad with blue cheese and bacon
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: A retro neighborhood tavern where baby back ribs feel as core to the menu as the martinis and wedge salad.
Who should go: Comfort-food diners who want a lively sit-down night
When to visit: Prime-time dinner or late evening when the room hums
What to order: Baby back ribs, mozzarella sticks, wedge salad
Insider tip: Grab a bar seat if you want the quickest path to ribs, a martini, and a last-minute walk-in.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally workable on surrounding residential blocks but tougher after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and tees are common, but many diners lean slightly dressy at night.
Noise level: Moderately loud during peak dinner; you can talk, but the room stays lively and music-forward.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially 7–9pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — salads, sides, and several non-meat plates offer workable options.
Vegan options: Very limited — most dishes rely on dairy or butter; confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Some items are workable (salads, certain mains), but ribs and many tavern classics are not GF; cross-contact likely.
Best For
Better for: A lively, nostalgic night with ribs, cocktails, and a social tavern vibe rather than a strictly barbecue-focused meal.
Consider Alternatives If: You want slow-smoked, regional barbecue styles or very quiet, formal dining — this skews saucy, social, and bustling.