Skinflints

- 7902 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209

Skinflints is far more than just a place to grab a bite; it is a genuine Bay Ridge institution that has cemented its status as a cornerstone of the Brooklyn dining scene. As a quintessential American restaurant, traditional bar, and, most famously, a beloved hamburger spot, Skinflints offers an inviting blend of history, comfort, and quality food. For decades, locals and visitors alike have flocked to this establishment for its consistently delicious classic American fare and its undeniably cozy, historic atmosphere.

The restaurant's longevity is a testament to its commitment to the community and its focus on serving hearty portions at affordable prices. While it's classified as a hamburger restaurant, the expansive menu and full bar service ensure there is something for every craving and occasion. Whether you're a long-time resident of New York or exploring Brooklyn for the first time, Skinflints provides a warm, authentic experience that feels like visiting an old friend. This is the ultimate local destination for comfort food and a lively, friendly gathering spot.

Location and Accessibility in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

Conveniently located in the vibrant and family-friendly Bay Ridge neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, Skinflints sits at a highly visible corner, making it a true hub for the surrounding community. The physical address is 7902 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11209, placing it squarely on one of Bay Ridge’s main commercial strips. This central location ensures accessibility for New York City residents.

The restaurant’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its facilities, which include a wheelchair accessible entrance, a wheelchair accessible restroom, and accessible seating options, ensuring all guests feel welcome. For those driving, both free and paid street parking options are available nearby. Being a true local staple, the restaurant attracts people from all walks of life—families, groups of friends, and solo diners from the neighborhood and beyond. Its unique character and historic charm—retaining original features like mosaic floor tiles from when the space was an ice cream parlor prior to 1975—make it a recognizable destination in the borough.

Services Offered at Skinflints

Skinflints provides a comprehensive range of services designed to accommodate diverse dining preferences, from a quick solo lunch to a large celebratory dinner.

• Dining Options: The restaurant offers a full spectrum of meals, including Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert. Guests can enjoy comfortable seating within the establishment, including table service and seating at the bar.
• Bar Service: Featuring a Bar onsite, Skinflints boasts a Great beer selection, an excellent Great wine list, and expertly crafted Cocktails and Hard liquor, complemented by Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food specials.
• Reservation and Accessibility: Skinflints Accepts reservations, and the space includes a Private dining room for events and larger groups. The venue is fully Wheelchair accessible.
• Flexible Service Models: Options include traditional Dine-in service, outdoor seating for warmer weather, and convenient Takeout for those preferring to enjoy their meal at home.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Recognizing its role as a neighborhood spot, the restaurant is Good for kids and offers High chairs, making it a welcoming environment for families.
• Payment Options: The restaurant accepts Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for a hassle-free checkout process.
• Late Night: Skinflints serves Late-night food, making it a perfect stop after an evening out in Brooklyn.
• Menu Offerings: The full menu includes Comfort food, Quick bites, and Small plates, ensuring there is a choice for any level of hunger.

Features and Highlights That Define the Skinflints Experience

This Brooklyn mainstay has cultivated a unique identity built on a combination of excellent food, decades of history, and a memorable atmosphere, setting it apart in the competitive New York dining landscape.

• The Famous English Muffin Burger: A signature feature that has earned the restaurant widespread acclaim, including being rated as “Brooklyn’s Best Burger” by a local TV show. All 8oz charbroiled burgers are uniquely served on an English Muffin instead of a traditional bun, offering a delicious, textural twist that is a must-try for any burger enthusiast.
• Historic Community Staple: Skinflints has been a local center for decades. While some sources reference a founding year of 1975, the location's history as a community center and eatery (specifically the Meyer & Blohm ice cream parlor) stretches back as far as 1924, and the current iteration is a true, long-standing Bay Ridge institution.
• Unforgettable Seasonal Decor: A major highlight that draws crowds is the spectacular seasonal decorations. The restaurant is famous for its elaborate thematic transformations, particularly its Christmas-themed decor, which creates a 'homey' and festive vibe throughout the year, changing for holidays like Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving.
• A True Comfort Food Destination: Beyond the burgers, the menu is celebrated for its classic American offerings, such as the highly recommended Chicken Pot Pie and a satisfying Half Rack of BBQ Ribs, ensuring patrons leave fully satisfied.
• Energetic and Cozy Atmosphere: The interior is a delightful mix of Casual, Cozy, and Historic elements, featuring rich wooden paneling and exposed brick walls, fostering a family-friendly ambiance that evokes the spirit of a classic neighborhood bar where “everyone knows your name.”
• Service Excellence and Reliability: Patrons consistently praise the Fast service and the dedication of the staff, who are credited for maintaining the high quality and consistency of the food and experience over the years.
• Local Engagement: The business shows strong community loyalty, including by periodically rolling back prices to its 1975 menu rates for anniversary celebrations, and regularly giving back to local organizations.

Contact Information

To plan your visit or inquire about reservations, please use the following contact details:

Address: 7902 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209, USA

Phone: (718) 745-1116

What is Worth Choosing at Skinflints

For any New Yorker seeking an authentic and satisfying meal in a setting brimming with character, Skinflints is an essential choice. What truly sets this establishment apart is the unique culinary experience rooted in decades of tradition. The signature element is undoubtedly the Basic Burger and its variants, such as the Cheddar Cheese Burger or Bacon Cheeseburger, all prepared as an 8oz charbroiled patty and served on an English Muffin—a simple change that dramatically elevates the classic American burger. Guests often recommend ordering extra cheese sauce on the side for dipping the accompanying French Fries.

Beyond the iconic burgers, the menu is a celebration of elevated comfort food. The Chicken Pot Pie is a famous, limited-daily item that often sells out, revered for its made-from-scratch quality and lovely puff pastry. Appetizers like the 1/2 Rack BBQ Ribs and the Fried Calamari serve as excellent starters. For those looking for heartier fare, the Dinner Entrees, including various preparations of chicken (like Chicken Francaise or Marsala) and premium beef like the Shell Steak or Steak Au Poivre, offer a quality dining experience. The value of the food is consistently praised, as Skinflints maintains affordable prices for generous, high-quality portions. Furthermore, the extensive drink menu, which features excellent beer and wine selections, makes it the perfect place to watch a game or simply unwind. In choosing Skinflints, you are not just selecting a place to eat; you are partaking in a piece of Brooklyn history and enjoying a culinary tradition that has stood the test of time.

Skinflints

7902 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209, USA