TLDR
Step back in time at this historic, chandelier-lit Brooklyn landmark. Famous for perfectly executed American classics, a lavish raw bar, and iconic tableside-worthy desserts.
Reddit Sentiment for GAGE & TOLLNER(based on 139 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
Gage & Tollner, a Brooklyn landmark, was originally established in 1879, beginning its journey as an oyster cart before moving into its current historic building in 1892. After a significant run, it closed its doors in 2004, briefly becoming a TGI Fridays and then an Arby's. Executive Chef and Partner Sohui Kim, along with her partners, embarked on the ambitious project of reopening the restaurant, which they successfully did on April 15, 2021. Kim emphasizes the immense behind-the-scenes effort involved in preparing dishes, polishing silverware, and setting the stage, contrasting it with what patrons might perceive. She acknowledges ongoing challenges like high food and labor costs but finds motivation in the strong sense of community and the desire to uphold Gage & Tollner's legacy, striving to ensure its continued presence for another 125 years.
Step back in time at Gage & Tollner, a beautifully revived Brooklyn institution serving classic American dishes like steaks, chops, seafood towers, and sensational fried chicken.
Time Out reviews Gage & Tollner, a historic Downtown Brooklyn steakhouse revitalized by new owners, praising its timeless decor, sharp cocktails, and standout dishes like Clams Kimisino and Edna Lewis-inspired fried chicken.
Willa Moore reviews Gage & Tollner, a historic Downtown Brooklyn steakhouse that blends old-world charm with a modern feel, highlighting its martinis, raw bar, and special occasion appeal.
Details
This historic Downtown Brooklyn landmark masterfully blends 19th-century elegance with modern American chophouse fare [1], [3]. Known for its stunning interior featuring velvet booths and brass chandeliers, it serves as a top choice for special occasions [3], [4]. While experiences can occasionally be inconsistent regarding steak preparation, the restaurant consistently earns praise for its extensive raw bar, expert cocktail program, and legendary desserts [1], [4], [7].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on elevated American chophouse classics, including standout raw bar selections, fried chicken, and rich sides like creamed spinach [4], [6], [7]. While the steaks are a major draw, they receive polarized feedback ranging from perfection to overcooked, whereas desserts—particularly the signature Baked Alaska—are widely considered must-order items [1], [4], [7].
Highlights / Recommended
Mentioned Dishes:
- •baked alaska(20)
- •fried chicken(7)
- •steak(6)
- •parker house rolls(6)
- •creamed spinach(4)
- •ny strip(3)
- •seafood tower(3)
- •steak frites(3)
- •parker rolls(3)
- •baked alaska for two(2)
- •butter roasted hash browns(2)
- •oysters rockefeller(2)
- •caesar salad(2)
- •she-crab soup(2)
- •house rolls(2)
- •martini(2)
- •wedge salad(2)
- •clams kimisino(2)
Customer Sentiment
Customer sentiment is generally positive, with many diners lauding the atmospheric, historic setting and high-quality cocktails [4], [7]. However, reviews are mixed regarding the consistency of the steaks and overall value, with some guests finding the experience less than spectacular for the price point [1], [7].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About GAGE & TOLLNER
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Where To Take Picky Parents Out To Brunch Dinner
"Recommended for its amazing fried chicken and good sides."
PositiveFrom post: What Trendypopular Coffee Shopdessert Spot Did
"Disappointed, found it like an upscale chain rather than a high-end steakhouse."
NegativeFrom post: What Trendypopular Coffee Shopdessert Spot Did
"Terrible and a huge letdown."
NegativeFrom post: Where Did The Ny Strips Go Where Are They Best
"The restaurant is listed as a recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Non Basic Birthday Dinner Ideas In Brooklyn
"This venue hosts the Sunken Harbor tiki bar located directly above it."
NeutralFrom post: Where Can I Find Crab Bisque Not Lobster Bisque
"The restaurant is described as providing a great overall meal experience, making it a good spot for a special dinner."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find Crab Bisque Not Lobster Bisque
"They serve a she-crab soup that is very cream-forward and suggested as a good alternative to crab bisque."
PositiveFrom post: Steakhousesteak Recommendations For Visitors Who
"The restaurant is praised for its ability to handle well-done steak requests better than other locations."
PositiveFrom post: Recommendations For The Best Savoury Pot Pies In
"Regarding Gage and Tollner, their menu offers several standout dishes beyond steak."
PositiveFrom post: Recommendations For The Best Savoury Pot Pies In
"The pork pot pie at Gage and Tollner is recommended."
PositiveFrom post: Does Gage Tollners Dessert Menu Still Hold Up
"This user visited Gage & Tollner a few months ago and highly recommends the Baked Alaska, but found the steaks to be mediocre for a steakhouse."
PositiveFrom post: Does Gage Tollners Dessert Menu Still Hold Up
"This user believes that the dessert recipes at Gage & Tollner likely remained the same after Caroline Schiff's departure, as it's improbable she was the sole creator of all prior desserts."
NeutralFrom post: Does Gage Tollners Dessert Menu Still Hold Up
"This user recently visited Gage & Tollner and found the desserts enjoyable, though they cannot offer a comparison to the menu during Caroline Schiff's tenure as they did not experience it."
PositiveFrom post: Whats One Fine Dining Restaurant That
"Gage and Tollner is recommended as a fine dining steakhouse option."
PositiveFrom post: Spacious Restaurants Anywhere In Manhattan Or
"Gage and Tollner is mentioned as a restaurant that could potentially offer spacious seating."
NeutralFrom post: I Won A 250 Gift Card To The Restaurant Of My
"Gage and Tollner was recommended as a dining option."
PositiveFrom post: New York Times Top 100 Restaurants X Michelin
"This user expressed surprise that Gage & Tollner made the list, stating that the place has "really gone downhill" in the past couple of years."
NegativeFrom post: Romantic Nyc Dinner Recommendations That Arent
"The original poster thanked the commenter for the recommendations."
PositiveFrom post: Romantic Nyc Dinner Recommendations That Arent
"Gage & Tollner was recommended as a high-end steakhouse option for a nice room and ambiance without experimental food, suitable for a romantic dinner."
PositiveFrom post: New York Times Top 100 Restaurants X Michelin
"Gage & Tollner is listed on the NYT top 100 list for 2023, 2024, and 2025, with a Michelin selection."
Neutral