ZipPicks Awards
Best Steakhouse in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Date Night Steakhouse in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Master Critic Review
Gage & Tollner
9.0
Gage & Tollner is a restored landmark oyster and chop house in Downtown Brooklyn, known for impeccably cooked steaks, seafood and a Victorian-era dining room lit by gas lamps. Locals and destination diners use it for special-occasion dinners where classic preparations and polished service matter as much as the room.
Must-Try Dishes:
New York strip steak, Dry-aged ribeye, Baked Alaska
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.5
Cultural Relevance: 9.4
What makes it special: Historic Michelin-recognized chop house marrying landmark atmosphere with serious steaks.
Who should go: Special-occasion diners who love classic New York steakhouse style.
When to visit: Prime dinner hours or weekend lunch when the room buzzes.
What to order: Oysters, New York strip or ribeye, Baked Alaska.
Insider tip: Book early and ask for a table in the main landmarked dining room.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Downtown Brooklyn; nearby paid garages on Livingston and Fulton offer the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; jackets not required but the room’s elegance favors polished attire.
Noise level: Moderate—lively buzz from the landmark dining room but still comfortable for conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation; the bar fills quickly.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait, though peak business lunch hours can add 10–15 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few well-executed options such as vegetable starters and composed mains; not a broad selection but quality-focused.
Vegan options: Very limited—best to call ahead for accommodations.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free items (steaks, seafood, oysters) and staff knowledgeable about modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the vintage gas-lit dining room creates a romantic, memorable setting, and polished service keeps the experience smooth and elevated.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unpredictable. Arrive early to request bar seating or a cancellation slot; peak times often book out entirely.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who can appreciate a formal setting; no dedicated children’s menu and the vibe leans adult-focused.
Best For
Better for: Classic steakhouse craft in a historic room—ideal for celebrations where ambiance and timeless dishes matter as much as the food.
Skip if: You want a casual, budget-friendly steak night or a menu with extensive vegetarian and vegan selections.