Swoony's

- 215 Columbia St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

If you're looking for a comfortable, stylish, and genuinely delicious American dining experience in Brooklyn, look no further than Swoony's. Nestled in the charming Columbia Street Waterfront District, Swoony's has quickly become a beloved neighborhood gem, carving out a unique identity while maintaining the high standards of its sister restaurant, the popular Carroll Gardens Italian spot, Cafe Spaghetti.

Swoony's is not about reinventing the wheel; it’s about perfecting the classics. Chef and owner Salvatore Lamboglia brings his experience and discerning palate to create an elevated take on the American bistro, focusing on classic proteins, hearty sides, and bar fare. This establishment is a reflection of the food Lamboglia himself enjoys when he's not cooking Italian, blending steakhouse staples, fresh seafood, and soulful comfort food into one cohesive and inviting menu. The atmosphere is designed to be cozy and intimate, yet lively and trendy, making it the perfect destination for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a celebratory night out. With its warm tones, mahogany bar, and thoughtfully curated antique decor—including the preservation of the original tin ceiling—Swoony's feels both fresh and rooted in Brooklyn history. It's a place where you can relax, grab a serious cocktail, and enjoy an expertly prepared meal in a truly welcoming setting.

Swoony's is conveniently located in one of Brooklyn's most appealing waterfront neighborhoods, the Columbia Street Waterfront District. The area, known for its mix of residential charm and local businesses, provides a great backdrop for this standout eatery.

The exact address is 215 Columbia St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA, situated between Union and Sackett Streets. This location in Carroll Gardens places it just around the corner from its famous sibling restaurant, solidifying the area as a major culinary destination.

For New Yorkers relying on public transportation, the restaurant is generally accessible, though it's a bit of a walk from the nearest subway stops on the F and G lines (like Carroll Street or Bergen Street). Many locals find that the bus routes serving the Columbia Street corridor offer a closer drop-off.

For those who drive, paid street parking is available, though as with any busy Brooklyn neighborhood, finding a spot may take some patience. The restaurant is committed to welcoming all guests and features excellent physical accessibility, including a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible seating, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom.

Swoony's offers a comprehensive range of services and dining options to cater to various needs and occasions, making it a flexible and accommodating choice for local diners:

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy the full, cozy, and trendy restaurant experience with comfortable seating, a beautiful bar, and attentive table service.
• Reservations: The venue accepts reservations and booking a table is highly recommended, particularly for dinner and peak times, as it is a popular spot. They can accommodate parties of up to eight guests and larger parties (up to 14) with a Chef's Menu.
• Takeout: For those who prefer to enjoy the delicious offerings at home, takeout service is available.
• Bar Service: A robust, full-service bar is available onsite, perfect for grabbing a classic cocktail or enjoying a glass of wine.
• Dessert Service: Dedicated options for dessert are available to cap off your meal, including highly-praised selections like the French Toast.
• Payment Flexibility: They accept a variety of payment methods including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for convenience.
• Child Amenities: The restaurant provides high chairs, making it a family-friendly spot.

Swoony's distinct blend of atmosphere, service, and menu execution creates several standout features that set it apart as a must-visit spot in the New York dining scene:

• Exceptional Bar Program: Known for its great cocktails and a focused, global great wine list, the bar is a central and "bumping" feature of the restaurant, also boasting a great beer selection.
• Signature Swoony's Burger: Their double-patty burger with Thousand Island and American cheese is a fan favorite, often touted as one of the best burgers in the city, served with fresh-cut fries.
• Highly Rated Comfort Dishes: Specialties like the Creamy Lobster Orzo, Dorade, and the decadent Short Rib Au Poivre have earned rave reviews for their outstanding execution and rich flavor profiles.
• Atmosphere and Decor: The vibe is a perfect trifecta of casual, cozy, and trendy. Featuring dark wood, banquettes, and the original tin ceiling, the decor is carefully curated with antique finds, giving the space an elevated rustic farmhouse feel.
• Fast and Friendly Service: Customers consistently praise the fast service and the welcoming, hospitable staff, which enhances the overall dining experience significantly.
• Popular for Solo Dining: The comfortable bar area, with its 12 seats, makes Swoony's a great option for people who enjoy dining alone, particularly due to the friendly staff interaction.
• American Bistro Menu Concept: Diverging from its Italian roots, the menu focuses on high-quality, soulful American comfort food classics, providing a refreshing change of pace for the Chef and the neighborhood.

For reservations, inquiries, or to place a takeout order, you can contact Swoony's using the following details:

Address: 215 Columbia St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA

Phone: (718) 207-3686 or +1 718-207-3686

Note on Reservations: Dinner reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity. The venue is closed on Sundays.

Swoony's excels across multiple categories, making it a versatile choice for dining in New York. However, a few elements truly stand out and make it a worthwhile destination.

Firstly, the restaurant’s commitment to elevated comfort food is its greatest strength. The dishes are straightforward but expertly prepared, offering a quality of cooking that rivals some of the best seafood and steak preparations in the city. Diners rave about the Creamy Lobster Orzo with its rich texture and generous chunks of lobster, calling it one of the best seafood dishes they’ve had. Similarly, the Short Rib Au Poivre is a classic choice, and the Dorade is often highlighted for its perfectly crispy skin and fresh preparation.

Secondly, Swoony's has mastered the art of the perfect bar experience. Its status as a great spot for Solo Dining, combined with its Great Cocktails and Great Wine List, makes the bar a magnet for locals. Customers frequently enjoy sitting at the handsome mahogany bar, praising the friendly and engaging bartenders. If you're looking for a sophisticated place to enjoy a martini and a high-quality bite, this is it.

Finally, you absolutely must try the Swoony's Burger. It’s a signature item for a reason. Described as a juicy double-patty smash burger served with Thousand Island dressing and American cheese, it has a cult following and is often cited as a contender for the best burger in New York. Paired with a side of their excellent Fries or a fresh Tuscan Kale Caesar salad, the burger is the epitome of the comfort food concept executed flawlessly.

Ultimately, what makes Swoony's worth choosing is the combination of its top-tier American bistro fare and its effortlessly convivial atmosphere. Chef Lamboglia has successfully created a space that feels like a treasured local haunt right from its opening—lively, welcoming, and consistently delicious. Whether you’re a long-time Brooklyn resident or exploring the Columbia Street Waterfront District for the first time, Swoony's delivers an unforgettable and soul-satisfying dining experience.

Swoony's

215 Columbia St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA