Bark Barbecue

- 55 Water St #5FL, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Welcome to the ultimate guide for one of New York City's most talked-about culinary destinations: Bark Barbecue. Nestled high within the iconic Time Out Market, this establishment has quickly cemented its status as a must-visit spot for both barbecue aficionados and those simply looking for an unforgettable meal in a spectacular setting. Bark Barbecue is not just another smokehouse; it represents a brilliant and delicious culinary fusion, blending the low-and-slow, Central Texas-style techniques of American barbecue with the vibrant, bold flavors of Dominican cuisine.

Pitmaster Ruben Santana, a Queens native of Dominican descent, is the visionary behind this unique concept. After starting as a wildly popular pop-up in 2020, Bark Barbecue found its permanent home, bringing its acclaimed, white oak-fueled recipes to a wider audience. This is where New York's diversity truly shines, offering a menu that features traditional smoked classics alongside inventive Dominican-inspired twists. You can expect perfectly smoked brisket and tender pork ribs right next to crispy chicharrones and savory Arroz Congri. Whether you're a local looking for your next great barbecue fix or a visitor seeking an authentic taste of NYC’s diverse food scene, Bark Barbecue delivers a flavor experience that is both comforting and profoundly original.

Bark Barbecue's flagship location is situated in one of Brooklyn's most picturesque and high-energy spots: the DUMBO neighborhood, specifically within the Time Out Market. DUMBO, which stands for "Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass," offers stunning waterfront views and an industrial-chic atmosphere that is quintessentially New York. The restaurant is located on the fifth floor of the Time Out Market, which provides an added bonus: the famed rooftop seating with unparalleled, sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. Dining here elevates the entire experience, transforming a simple meal into a visual feast.

The address is 55 Water St #5FL, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA. Its prime location within a popular food hall means accessibility is a key feature. For those traveling by car, there is a mix of free street parking, paid street parking, and paid parking garages nearby, though securing a spot can be typical of New York City. For public transit users, DUMBO is easily reached via multiple subway lines.

The establishment prides itself on its accessibility features, making it welcoming for all New Yorkers. It offers a wheelchair accessible entrance, wheelchair accessible restroom, and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring a comfortable experience. Inside the Time Out Market, the atmosphere is generally casual and trendy, drawing a diverse crowd of locals, families, groups, and tourists alike. The market setting often fosters a communal dining environment, with long tables where patrons share space and conversation, adding to the vibrant energy of the place.

Bark Barbecue provides a comprehensive range of dining and service options tailored for convenience and an enjoyable experience.

• Dine-in and Counter Service: The primary experience is counter service within the vibrant Time Out Market food hall, perfect for both lunch and dinner.
• Takeout: Customers can easily order their favorite smoked meats and sides to enjoy at home or on the go.
• Outdoor Seating: The Time Out Market’s renowned rooftop offers extensive outdoor seating with spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge.
• Catering: Bark Barbecue offers catering services, allowing you to bring their unique Dominican-Texan barbecue fusion to your next event or gathering.
• Beverage Offerings: The menu includes both non-alcoholic options like Coke and the local specialty Country Club soda, alongside a selection of Beer and other Alcohol.
• Dessert: Simple dessert options are available to complete your meal.
• Family and Pet-Friendly: The restaurant is good for kids, offering amenities like high chairs and changing tables. Dogs are also allowed in the outdoor seating areas, and even inside the market in designated areas.

Bark Barbecue distinguishes itself in the highly competitive NYC food scene with a number of unique characteristics and offerings that appeal to a wide array of diners.

• Dominican-Texan Barbecue Fusion: This is the core appeal—a creative and delicious blend of traditional Central Texas smoking techniques with the bright, savory, and deep flavors of Dominican cuisine.
• Iconic Location with Rooftop Seating: Located in the Time Out Market, the restaurant offers some of the best seating in New York City, providing a memorable dining experience with world-class views.
• Latino-Owned Business: The business proudly identifies as Latino-owned, with Pitmaster Ruben Santana infusing his Dominican heritage directly into the menu.
• Live Entertainment: The venue occasionally features live music and is known for hosting special events, such as its annual Rooftop Takeover, adding a festive, energetic element to the dining experience.
• Fast Service: While the establishment is incredibly popular and there is usually a wait, the counter service model ensures a quick bite once you reach the front of the queue.
• Wide Inclusivity: The atmosphere is welcoming to all, identifying as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safespace, drawing a diverse and inclusive crowd.
• Local Specialty Offerings: The menu serves local specialties, featuring Dominican culinary staples seamlessly integrated with classic barbecue fare.
• Comfort Food: Every dish is designed to be deeply satisfying, offering a high-quality take on comfort food classics and unique fusion dishes.

For New Yorkers planning a visit to the Brooklyn location, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 55 Water St #5FL, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA

The restaurant operates within the Time Out Market food hall structure. While hours can vary, they are typically open daily for lunch and dinner until sell-out, a common practice for high-demand barbecue spots. It's always a good idea to check the latest operating hours directly before planning your trip, especially since popular items can sell out.

Parking options include paid parking garage and paid street parking, with some limited free street parking nearby. Remember that credit cards and debit cards are accepted for payment.

The true value of a visit to Bark Barbecue lies in experiencing the innovative marriage of two powerful food traditions. New Yorkers looking for the most essential items should focus on the menu items that showcase this unique fusion, though the traditional American BBQ offerings are equally masterful.

For first-time visitors, the must-try items beautifully bridge the gap between Texas barbecue and the Dominican kitchen. Start with the meats sold by the half-pound to sample a variety. The Brisket is legendary, noted for its deep smoke flavor, tenderness, and perfect pepper bark—a testament to classic low-and-slow technique. The Chicharrón is also an absolute necessity; it’s Dominican-style pork belly, perfectly crispy and crunchy, offering an incredible textural contrast to the smoked meats.

When considering sandwiches, the Tres Golpes Sandwich stands out as a unique highlight, reimagining the traditional Dominican breakfast platter (which usually includes fried cheese and mashed plantains, or mangu) into a portable, smoky delight. The Sofrito Smoked Fried Chicken Sandwich infuses the foundational aromatic flavors of Dominican cooking—the sofrito—into a classic barbecue bird, making it a powerful and flavorful choice.

The sides are where the fusion is most pronounced. While the creamy and rich Mac n Cheese is a perennial favorite, make sure to order the Arroz Congri (rice and beans) and the sweet plantains (Maduros). Customers rave about the authenticity and peppery, comforting nature of the Arroz Congri. The Queso Frito (fried cheese) is another essential side dish that pays homage to the Dominican side of the menu. Finally, don't miss the smoked carnitas, often served with crispy tostones (fried green plantain slices) and the signature Bark green sauce—a truly unforgettable combination of textures and citrusy flavor.

In short, Bark Barbecue offers a bold, exciting, and highly satisfying take on smoked meats. Its commitment to quality, its inventive menu, and its incredible DUMBO rooftop location make it an absolute destination for any New York food lover. Be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours, but rest assured that the phenomenal food and the unforgettable dining experience are well worth every minute.

Bark Barbecue

55 Water St #5FL, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA