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Hollow Nickel
$$$$ · American

494 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217
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ZipPicks Awards

Best American in Boerum Hill

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Hollow Nickel 7.9
Boerum Hill
Vibes: Sports Bar Central Happy Hour Hotspots Late Night Legends Quick Bites Champions
Hollow Nickel is a Boerum Hill neighborhood bar that leans into American comfort food—burgers, wings, and late-night snacks—served until the early hours. It’s a go-to pre- and post-Barclays stop for pints, cocktails, and a proper smash burger in a dim, brick-lined space.
Must-Try Dishes: HN Classic Double Burger, Spicy Smash Burger, Wings
Scores:
Value: 8.9 Service: 7.4 Consistency: 7.6 Food Quality: 7.8 Atmosphere: 6.8 Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A late-hours Atlantic Avenue bar where well-executed burgers and wings are as central as the taps and TVs.
Who should go: Barclays-bound groups wanting drinks and solid bar food.
When to visit: Happy hour or late night after games and shows nearby.
What to order: HN Classic Double Burger, Spicy Smash Burger, wings.
Insider tip: On event nights, sitting at the bar gets food and drinks out faster than the tables in back.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Atlantic Avenue and side streets is possible but tight, especially during Barclays events; expect to circle or use nearby paid garages.
Dress code: Casual — jerseys, jeans, and everyday wear fit in perfectly.
Noise level: Loud during games and late nights; conversation can be tough at peak hours but manageable earlier in the evening.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes on Barclays event nights; shorter if you grab bar seats.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service is fast and seats are open.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable — veggie sides, salads, and occasional meatless sandwiches.
Vegan options: Very limited — bar snacks and fries may be the safest route.
Gluten-free options: Some items can be adjusted (no bun, wings without breading), but there’s no dedicated kitchen space.
Best For
Better for: Late-night burgers, sports viewing, and fast drinks near Barclays — great convenience and hours.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, broad dietary accommodation, or a polished sit-down dinner experience.