Red Hook, New York City - a body of water with a city in the background
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Red Hook New York City

4.6
·491k reviews·, United States

A Brooklyn waterfront enclave with a gritty-chic vibe, renowned for its exceptional food, art scene, and industrial charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend Afternoons

Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Red Hook, New York City - a body of water with a city in the background

Red Hook New York City

Best Time

Weekend Afternoons

Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Brooklyn waterfront enclave with a gritty-chic vibe, renowned for its exceptional food, art scene, and industrial charm.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Red Hook offers a unique, less-touristy Brooklyn experience with some of the city's best food."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Ferry is Your Friend

The NYC Ferry is a scenic and convenient way to reach Red Hook. :ferry:

🍔 Burger Reservations

For Red Hook Tavern, try Resy notifications a week ahead or walk-in around 5 PM. :hamburger:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Red Hook Tavern Burger

Red Hook Tavern Burger

Red Hook Tavern

A thick-cut steak burger, hailed by many as potentially the best in NYC. Simple, yet perfectly executed.

Hometown Bar-B-Que

Hometown Bar-B-Que

Hometown Bar-B-Que

A Brooklyn staple serving up authentic, mouth-watering barbecue. Expect delicious meats and a lively atmosphere.

Red Hook Lobster Pound

Red Hook Lobster Pound

Red Hook Lobster Pound

Savor a classic Connecticut lobster roll with buttery, toasted bread. Beachy vibes and great seafood await.

Van Brunt Street Stroll

Van Brunt Street Stroll

Van Brunt Street

Explore Red Hook's main street, lined with charming cafes, unique shops, and vibrant street art.

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Planning Your Visit

Getting to Red Hook: Plan Your Journey

Red Hook is a bit of a transit desert, so plan your commute! The NYC Ferry is a popular and scenic option, especially from Manhattan or other Brooklyn waterfronts. Driving is possible, but parking can be tricky. Consider ride-sharing or biking if you're comfortable with city cycling.

Embrace the Vibe: Red Hook's Unique Charm

Red Hook offers a distinct, less-touristy Brooklyn experience with industrial roots and a burgeoning arts scene. While generally safe, be aware of your surroundings, especially near public housing areas. It's a neighborhood best explored on foot or by bike to soak in its unique atmosphere.

Best Times

When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
More relaxed dining
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny Fall Days
Why
Beautiful scenery, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#greenscreen Survival tips when walking in the hood in NYC🗽‼️Tag a friend to save their life🙏🏽🤣#fypシ #nyc #xyzbca #foryou #relatable #advice
@dongxttilive
42.6K likes • 383K views

🚢 Ferry is Your Friend

The NYC Ferry is a scenic and convenient way to reach Red Hook. :ferry: Reddit

🍔 Burger Reservations

For Red Hook Tavern, try Resy notifications a week ahead or walk-in around 5 PM. :hamburger: Reddit

Part 2 | 🪝 Iconic Red Hook Eats: Hometown Bar-B-Que 🥩🐄 Part 2 of our Iconic Red Hook Eats series brings us to Hometown Bar-B-Que. A Brooklyn staple known for doing barbecue the right way. We ordered ...
imonalunchbreak
0 likes • 2.6K views
Potentially the best burger in NYC Power ranking of dishes: 1. Burger 2. Wedge Salad 3. Country Ham Croquettes 4. Cottage Fries 5. Baguette 📍Red Hook Tavern (329 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231) #...
tastebywill
3.3K likes • 188.9K views

🍖 BBQ Beat the Rush

Arrive at Hometown BBQ by 11:30 AM on weekends to avoid long waits. :ribs: Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Red Hook is best explored by walking to discover hidden gems. :walking: Reddit

RED HOOK TAVERN BURGERS Credit @thegrilldads Have you Been to RED HOOK TAVERN ? WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE BURGER in NYC ? #FAVORITE #BURGER #BEST #BURGERS #NewYorkCity #nycfoodie
nycfoodie.nyc
99 likes • 2.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Ferry is Your Friend

The NYC Ferry is a scenic and convenient way to reach Red Hook. :ferry: Reddit

🍔 Burger Reservations

For Red Hook Tavern, try Resy notifications a week ahead or walk-in around 5 PM. :hamburger: Reddit

🍖 BBQ Beat the Rush

Arrive at Hometown BBQ by 11:30 AM on weekends to avoid long waits. :ribs: Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Red Hook is best explored by walking to discover hidden gems. :walking: Reddit

🎨 Art & Pier Views

Visit the fishing pier on Coffey Street for great views and explore local galleries. :art: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Red Hook is celebrated for its exceptional culinary scene, particularly its legendary burger and authentic BBQ. Visitors appreciate its unique, less-touristy vibe and waterfront charm. However, its remote location and limited public transit can be a drawback for some.

What People Like

Incredible food scene
Unique neighborhood charm
Scenic waterfront views

What People Dislike

Difficult to access
Limited public transit

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular way to reach Red Hook is via the NYC Ferry's South Brooklyn route, offering scenic views. Reddit Driving is an option, but parking can be challenging. Reddit Some Redditors suggest taking the IKEA ferry and then walking. Reddit The closest subway lines are further away, making the ferry or a car service more convenient. Reddit

Red Hook is considered a transit desert, meaning it's not directly served by subway lines. The closest subway stations are a significant walk away, so the NYC Ferry or other transportation methods are generally recommended. Reddit+1

Once in Red Hook, exploring on foot is highly recommended to discover its unique charm. Reddit Many visitors also bring or rent bikes to navigate the area. Reddit

Yes, the NYC Ferry has a route that stops in Red Hook, providing a convenient and picturesque way to arrive. Reddit

Red Hook can be a bit challenging to get to and from due to its limited public transit options. Planning your journey in advance is advised. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Reservations for Red Hook Tavern can be difficult to secure. It's recommended to try for Resy notifications a week in advance or attempt to walk in around 5 PM on a weekday or Sunday. Reddit

Operating hours vary by establishment. It's best to check the specific restaurant's website or social media for the most up-to-date information. Many popular spots like Hometown Bar-B-Que and Red Hook Lobster Pound have weekend hours that can get busy. Instagram+1

Most attractions in Red Hook, such as strolling Van Brunt Street, visiting piers, and exploring galleries, do not have entrance fees. Dining and specific events may incur costs. Reddit

For highly sought-after spots like Red Hook Tavern, booking well in advance or being prepared for a wait is advisable. Reddit For places like Hometown Bar-B-Que, arriving early on weekends is a good strategy. Reddit

Absolutely! The NYC Ferry is a great car-free option. Many visitors enjoy exploring Red Hook on foot or by bike. Reddit+1

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Red Hook is known for its industrial waterfront, burgeoning arts scene, unique eateries like Hometown Bar-B-Que and Red Hook Lobster Pound, and the highly-rated Red Hook Tavern burger. Instagram+2

Must-dos include trying the iconic burger at Red Hook Tavern, enjoying BBQ at Hometown Bar-B-Que, savoring a lobster roll from Red Hook Lobster Pound, and strolling along Van Brunt Street to discover local shops and galleries. Instagram+3

Red Hook is generally considered safe, especially in its commercial areas. However, like any neighborhood, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, particularly near public housing developments. Reddit

While not a primary shopping destination, Red Hook has unique boutiques, art galleries, and vintage stores along Van Brunt Street. InstagramReddit

Yes, Red Hook offers great photo ops with its waterfront views, industrial architecture, street art, and charming streetscapes. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The burger at Red Hook Tavern is legendary. Instagram+1 Hometown Bar-B-Que offers incredible BBQ, Instagram+1 and Red Hook Lobster Pound serves up delicious lobster rolls. Instagram

Red Hook Tavern is frequently cited for having one of the best burgers in NYC, if not the country. Instagram+1

Hometown Bar-B-Que is a top contender for the best BBQ in Red Hook and often in all of NYC. Instagram+1

While Red Hook is known for its meat-centric eateries, some cafes and restaurants may offer vegetarian or vegan options. Public Records, mentioned by a Redditor, is a vegan spot. Reddit

Sonny's Bar is recommended for acoustic music in the back, offering a relaxed atmosphere. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the industrial waterfront, unique street art, and charming architecture along Van Brunt Street. The piers offer great skyline and harbor views. Instagram

Yes, the waterfront areas in Red Hook provide excellent vantage points for capturing the Manhattan skyline, especially during golden hour. Instagram

Street photography, architectural shots, and food photography are popular due to the neighborhood's diverse visual appeal. Instagram+2

Generally, photography is permitted in public spaces. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the atmosphere. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Red Hook offers a unique Brooklyn experience that can be fun for families, though it requires some planning. The NYC Ferry ride itself can be an adventure for kids, offering great views. Reddit While Red Hook isn't packed with traditional playgrounds, exploring Van Brunt Street can be interesting with its quirky shops and cafes. Instagram Consider a visit to Hometown Bar-B-Que for a lively atmosphere and hearty food that kids often enjoy. Instagram+1 Be mindful that some areas have industrial elements, so keep a close eye on younger children, especially near the waterfront. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Red Hook can be a budget-friendly option if you plan smart. The NYC Ferry is an affordable way to get there and enjoy scenic views. Reddit Instead of expensive sit-down meals, consider grabbing a more casual bite from a cafe on Van Brunt Street or enjoying the atmosphere at Sonny's Bar for live music. Reddit Walking and exploring the neighborhood's street art and waterfront are free activities that offer a great sense of the area's character. Instagram

🍽️ Foodies & Culinary Explorers

Red Hook is a pilgrimage site for food lovers. The Red Hook Tavern burger is a non-negotiable experience, so plan your visit accordingly to snag one. InstagramReddit+1 Dive into the world-class BBQ at Hometown Bar-B-Que, where the smoky aromas alone are worth the trip. Instagram+1 And don't leave without trying a classic lobster roll from the Red Hook Lobster Pound. Instagram Explore Van Brunt Street for other local eateries and cafes that might surprise you. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Red Hook: Transportation Insights

Getting to and around Red Hook requires a bit of planning, as it's not directly serviced by subways. The NYC Ferry is a highly recommended and scenic option, connecting Red Hook to Manhattan and other parts of Brooklyn. Reddit Many visitors find it to be the most convenient and enjoyable way to arrive, offering great views of the harbor and skyline. Reddit For those who prefer to drive, be aware that parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. Reddit Some Redditors suggest using ride-sharing services or even biking if you're comfortable navigating city streets. Reddit

Once you're in Red Hook, the best way to experience its unique character is by exploring on foot. Reddit The neighborhood's charm unfolds as you wander through its streets, discovering hidden art studios, local businesses, and waterfront views. Instagram Bringing or renting a bike is also a popular choice for covering more ground while still enjoying the local atmosphere. Reddit Remember that Red Hook is a bit of a transit desert, so factor in extra time for travel and be prepared with your preferred mode of transport. Reddit

Culinary Delights of Red Hook

Red Hook is a food lover's paradise, boasting some of Brooklyn's most celebrated eateries. The Red Hook Tavern has garnered significant buzz for its burger, often described as one of the best in NYC, if not the country. Instagram+1 Securing a table can be competitive, with tips suggesting advance reservations or strategic walk-ins. Reddit

For barbecue aficionados, Hometown Bar-B-Que is a must-visit. This Brooklyn staple is renowned for its authentic, slow-cooked meats and vibrant atmosphere. Instagram+1 Arriving early on weekends is a common strategy to beat the crowds. Reddit Another iconic spot is the Red Hook Lobster Pound, offering delicious lobster rolls and other seafood favorites in a casual, beachy setting. Instagram Beyond these highlights, Red Hook's main street, Van Brunt Street, is dotted with cafes and bars, offering a variety of dining experiences. Instagram

Discovering Red Hook's Artistic Soul

Beyond its culinary scene, Red Hook possesses a distinct artistic character, shaped by its industrial past and a thriving community of artists. While not a primary shopping destination, Van Brunt Street is home to several independent boutiques, vintage shops, and, notably, art galleries. InstagramReddit These spaces offer a glimpse into the local creative pulse, showcasing a range of artistic expressions. Reddit

For those seeking unique perspectives, visiting the fishing pier on Coffey Street is recommended. Reddit It provides not only scenic views but also a sense of the neighborhood's maritime heritage. Reddit The industrial architecture and waterfront vistas themselves serve as a canvas, making Red Hook a visually rich environment for exploration and photography. Instagram

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