Seemor
Brooklyn Ice HouseBWorth Trying
318 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
· Bar & grill, Barbecue area, Chicken wings restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (566 reviews)
Takeout
Laid-back Red Hook dive with standout burgers, cheap cold beer, and a big backyard; food is solid for bar fare, but service can swing from friendly to brusque.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Brooklyn Ice House earns its grade through solid burger and wings execution paired with an excellent backyard setting and exceptional value. However, inconsistent food quality—soggy buns, dry wings, lukewarm takeout— and unpredictable service ranging from warm to rude prevent higher standing. It's a genuine Red Hook staple worth visiting for casual drinks and comfort food, but not a destination for reliability.
Restaurant Summary
This Red Hook haunt leans into true dive bar vibes with cold, cheap beer and a backyard that soaks up weekend crowds. Service stories split between effortlessly friendly bartenders and the occasional brusque interaction. One diner summed it up: "Neighborhood spot where the burger hits and the pints stay cold." The cooking sticks to comfort-first bar food: a loaded cheeseburger with a heap of thin, hot fries, saucy wings, chili, and Frito pie. It is not fancy, but it is satisfying and priced right. Expect hearty plates that pair well with beers and game nights rather than chef-y flourishes; think solid execution over spectacle. For families, the menu works thanks to simple kid-pleasers like hot dogs, fries, and straightforward burgers. Do note it is a bar environment, so earlier hours and the backyard are the best bet. Cash only can be a surprise; bring bills or plan for the ATM.
At a Glance
- Backyard is spacious and perfect for groups
- Excellent value on burgers and beers
- Genuine dive bar character with friendly regulars
- Service can swing from warm to rude depending on staff and timing
- Cash only; ATM on site
What Sets It Apart
- big_backyard_hangout
- great_value_burgers
- true_dive_bar_vibes
What People Love
- Chunky, satisfying burgers with hot fries
- Cheap, well-poured beers
- Big backyard for lingering with friends
- Unpretentious, real-deal dive feel
Points of Concern
- Service inconsistency: several reports of curt or rude interactions amid many positive bartender notes
- Bar atmosphere can attract rowdy patrons; one report of staff not de-escalating well
- Occasional food execution misses (dry wings, over-crisped sides, lukewarm takeout)
- Review patterns show typical diversity with strong photo evidence; minimal risk of manipulation
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$20-28 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Go for the Ice House Burger ($11) which includes fries for best value
- Vegetarians: Black Bean Burger ($11) or Caesar Salad ($9) as reliable options
- Share sides like Onion Rings ($5) and Sweet Potato Fries ($5) for group snacking
Perfect For
- Casual burger-and-beer nights
- Post-bike-ride cool-down in Red Hook
- Laid-back group hang in a backyard
- Pre- or post-waterfront stroll pit stop
Location Insights
Area: Industrial-chic Red Hook strip with local bars and shops; relaxed, artsy, neighborhood crowd.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical late-night bar environment, occasional rowdy patrons reported.
Nearby: Near Red Hook small businesses, waterfront draws, and residential pockets; destination for casual bar-hopping.
Red HookRed Hook is a waterfront neighborhood with a strong maritime and industrial heritage, now transformed into a vibrant community with a growing food scene featuring artisanal and eclectic dining options. The area attracts locals and visitors seeking unique restaurants, waterfront views, and a laid-back, creative atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–04:00
Tuesday12:00–04:00
Wednesday12:00–04:00
Thursday12:00–04:00
Friday12:00–04:00
Saturday12:00–04:00
Sunday12:00–04:00
Available: Takeout
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