TLDR
Historic 1892 landmarked chophouse featuring stunning velvet-and-brass decor, iconic Baked Alaska, and a moody, must-visit tiki bar upstairs.
Reddit Sentiment for GAGE & TOLLNER / SUNKEN HARBOR CLUB(based on 109 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
Located in a stunning, landmarked 19th-century dining room, this historic Downtown Brooklyn chophouse expertly blends timeless decor with a modern, high-end American dining experience [3], [4], [6]. The menu features classic preparations, ranging from dry-aged steaks and raw bar selections to Edna Lewis-inspired fried chicken [2], [6], [7]. While some diners have questioned consistency and value, many celebrate it as a quintessential New York destination perfect for special occasions [1], [3], [5], [8].
Food Overview
This chophouse serves a refined menu of classic American dishes, including well-regarded steaks, fried chicken, and an extensive raw bar [2], [6], [7]. While the Baked Alaska and coconut cake are iconic, customer experiences with steak quality vary, with some praising its preparation while others find it underwhelming for the price [1], [4], [7], [8]. The restaurant is also known for its cream-forward she-crab soup and unique sides like butter-roasted hashbrowns [1], [7], [8].
Highlights / Recommended
Mentioned Dishes:
- •Baked Alaska(25)This signature dessert is highly recommended and often cited as a reason to revi...
- •Parker House Rolls(13)These rolls are exceptionally praised, with some diners calling them the best th...
- •Steak(11)Steak is a recommended choice, with classic cuts available. Some diners find the...
- •Fried Chicken(9)This dish is considered excellent and a faithful rendition of Edna Lewis's recip...
- •Martini(7)The martinis are considered among the best in the city, with a high-quality, ele...
- •Butter Roasted Hash Browns(6)These hash browns are described as incredible and a standout side dish, rivaling...
- •Creamed Spinach(5)A classic side dish that is well-executed and a fitting accompaniment to steak. ...
- •Blackout Cake(5)On the menu as Brooklyn Blackout CakeThis decadent dessert is preferred by some over the baked Alaska, noted for a ta...
- •She-Crab Soup(4)
- •NY Strip(3)
- •Clams Kimisino(3)
- •Seafood Tower(3)
- •Steak Frites(3)
- •Oysters Rockefeller(2)
- •Caesar Salad(2)
- •Pork Chop(2)
- •Wedge Salad(2)
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About GAGE & TOLLNER / SUNKEN HARBOR CLUB
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: I Went To Gage Tollner A Chophouse In Brooklyn
"The steak is considered average, but the martinis are praised as high-level."
NeutralFrom post: I Went To Gage Tollner A Chophouse In Brooklyn
"The seasonal tangerine pudding was one of the best desserts the commenter has ever had."
PositiveFrom post: I Went To Gage Tollner A Chophouse In Brooklyn
"The dining experience was pleasant with lovely service, and the non-steak menu items like the fried chicken were highly recommended."
PositiveFrom post: I Went To Gage Tollner A Chophouse In Brooklyn
"The fried chicken is highlighted as an excellent dish."
PositiveFrom post: I Went To Gage Tollner A Chophouse In Brooklyn
"The diner enjoyed the blackout cake and the fried hen of the woods appetizer, noting the fries were also great."
Positive