Nestled in the heart of Gowanus, Brooklyn, the Gowanus Yacht Club is a beloved outdoor dining destination. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and great food, it is the perfect spot to kick back with a cold drink and enjoy some casual American fare. Whether you are craving a juicy burger, fresh seafood, or refreshing drinks, they offer a little something for everyone. Inspired by its nautical name, this quirky eatery blends a laid-back vibe with a sense of community, making it a must-visit in the area. While it isn’t permanently shut down, the Yacht Club closed for the 2024 season and is expected to reopen again later.
Note: The Gowanus Yacht Club is temporarily closed.
About Gowanus Yacht Club:
A. The “Yacht Club” Vibe:
The name “Gowanus Yacht Club” may evoke images of an exclusive waterfront club, but this spot is all about fun and relaxation. There is no pretension here—just good food, cold drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. The nautical theme is subtle but charming, bringing a touch of the sea to this Brooklyn neighborhood.
B. The Outdoor Setting:
Gowanus Yacht Club’s outdoor seating is where the magic happens. With picnic tables under the sky, string lights illuminating the evening, and a breezy atmosphere, it is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family. If you are lucky, you can catch a nice breeze from the canal nearby, enhancing the laid-back vibe. This spot is primarily seasonal, so it is best enjoyed during the warmer months.
C. Restaurant Philosophy:
Based on their active presence on Facebook, it embraces a simple yet satisfying philosophy: great food, cold drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels at home. It is not just a restaurant; it is a community gathering spot where locals can come together to enjoy the best of Brooklyn.
Exploring the Menu at Gowanus Yacht Club:
Burgers:
When it comes to casual dining, burgers are a must, and Gowanus Yacht Club delivers with some of the best. Their burgers are likely a crowd favorite, featuring hearty patties stacked high with fresh toppings. Whether you go for a classic or something more adventurous, the burger selection is a highlight of the menu.
Burgers & Wurst
| Item | Price |
| Dog | $2.00 |
| Spicy | $4.00 |
| Swojska Kiel | $6.00 |
| Knock Roast | $6.00 |
Seafood:
Thanks to its “yacht club” name, seafood naturally takes center stage at this Brooklyn hotspot. Expect fresh options like fried fish, lobster rolls, and grilled seafood that capture the essence of coastal dining. It is a must-try for seafood lovers who want to enjoy a taste of the ocean right in the heart of Brooklyn.
Sides
| Item | Price |
| Corn On The Cob | $3.00 |
| Guac | $6.00 |
Casual American Fare:
The menu isn’t just about burgers and seafood. You will also find a variety of sandwiches, salads, fries, and other casual American dishes that are perfect for a relaxed meal in the sun. From crispy fries to light salads, there is something for every taste.
Other
| Item | Price |
| BBQ Pulled Pork | $7.00 |
| Brooklyn Banger | $5.00 |
| Gowanus Cubano | $8.00 |
| Potato & Cheese Pierogi | $7.00 |
Drinks:
No outdoor restaurant in Brooklyn is complete without a great drink selection. It features an impressive beer garden, serving up local craft brews and cold drinks that perfectly complement their menu. If beer isn’t your thing, they likely offer sodas, iced tea, and other refreshing beverages to keep you cool.
Bottles & Cans
| Drink | Price |
| Bud / Bud Light | $4.00 |
| Allagash White | $6.00 |
| Porkslap / Moothunder | $4.00 |
| Presidente | $4.00 |
| Rolling Rock | $4.00 |
| Bitburger | $5.00 |
| Pretty Things Jack D`or | $14.00 |
| Saison Dupont | $25.00 |
| Six Point Sweet Action | $6.00 |
| Narragansett | $4.00 |
Specialty Drinks
| Drink | Price |
| Cava Brut | $8.00 |
| Lemonade Shandy | $6.00 |
| Mimosa | $8.00 |
| Brewdriver | $6.00 |
Specials:
Keep an eye out for special offerings mentioned on their Facebook page. From happy hour deals to limited-time menu items, they often feature something new and exciting for visitors to enjoy.
The Gowanus Yacht Club Experience:
A. Laid-Back and Unpretentious Atmosphere:
Whether you are dropping by for a quick bite or spending the afternoon with friends, it offers a chill atmosphere that welcomes everyone. With its relaxed vibes and casual setting, it is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and company.
B. Perfect for Summer and Weekends:
They shine in the summer months, offering the perfect environment for warm-weather dining. Its outdoor space is ideal for weekend gatherings, whether you are enjoying a leisurely brunch or hanging out with friends over drinks.
C. Location and Accessibility:
Located at 501 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, Gowanus Yacht Club is easy to find in the vibrant Gowanus neighborhood. It is a short walk from public transportation, making it convenient for anyone in Brooklyn or beyond to visit. Whether you are exploring the area or heading over for a weekend lunch, the location is ideal for both locals and visitors.
Location on Map:
D. Potential for Events/Groups:
It is also a great venue for events, whether you are hosting a birthday party or a casual get-together with friends. The open, outdoor space is perfect for groups, and the laid-back vibe makes it an ideal choice for any celebration.
Quick Guide About Gowanus Yacht Club
| Category | Details |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.5 out of 208 reviews |
| Price Range | $10–20 per person (Reported by 21 people) |
| Type | Bar & grill (Seasonal outdoor beer garden) |
| Overview | Casual spot with a hip crowd, simple grill fare like hot dogs. |
| Services | ✔ Dine-in ✔ Delivery |
| Address | 323 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, United States |
| Hours | 3 pm–12 am |
| Map Code | M2J4+98 Brooklyn, New York, USA |
Plan Your Visit:
A. Ordering/Seating Information:
They operate on a first-come, first-served basis for seating, so it is best to arrive early, especially on busy weekends. Whether you are there for a quick bite or a long afternoon, there is plenty of outdoor seating to accommodate guests.
B. Hours of Operation:
For the most up-to-date hours, it is best to check their Facebook page. Typically, it operates in the afternoon and evening, with special hours for weekends.
C. Payment Options:
Make sure to bring your preferred payment method, as they accept a variety of payment options, including cards and digital payments.
Connect With Gowanus Yacht Club:
A. Facebook Page:
For the latest updates, specials, and photos, be sure to follow on Facebook. It is their primary platform for connecting with customers and keeping the community in the loop.
Link to Facebook page
Official Instagram @Gycnyc
B. Other Contact Info:
If you need more information, check out the contact details on their Facebook page, where you can also find a phone number for direct inquiries.
Reviews and Recognition:
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 ★★★★★ Based on 208 reviews
i) D Zhao: 4.5/5 (★★★☆☆) (12-09-2024)
Dine-in | Other | $10–20
I’ve been visiting this place since I lived nearby in the mid-2000s. It has definitely evolved over the years, but it has kept its unique character. When it opens, it marks the start of the outdoor dining season in NYC (from May to October). I love spending time here because the atmosphere is super relaxed, the beers are affordable, and there’s simple food to enjoy. It’s one of the few places in the city like this.
Food: 4/5 | Service: 4/5 | Atmosphere: ⅘
ii) Christopher Greene: 4.8/5 (★★★★☆) (01-09-2025)
A very chill spot to catch up with a friend or watch a game. The staff is friendly, and they have solid non-alcoholic options if that’s what you prefer.
Food: 4/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5
For more reviews and ratings, visit Google Reviews.
Conclusion:
Whether you are craving a juicy burger, fresh seafood, or just a cold drink on a warm day, Gowanus Yacht Club delivers the ultimate outdoor dining experience. Located in the heart of Brooklyn’s Gowanus neighborhood, it is the perfect spot for summer hangouts, weekend brunches, and laid-back evenings with friends. Head to Gowanus Yacht Club for a relaxing dining experience that captures the best of Brooklyn’s vibrant food scene!
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I’m Sada, the founder of TripGuiderz.com. Since 2019, I’ve been crafting travel guides and blog posts to help readers plan smarter adventures. Let’s explore the world together!
