The Long Island Bar
America F*** Yeah
Price: $18 or $22 (depending on single or double patty)
Meat: One or Two Dry-Aged Patties (Blend unknown)
Bun: Hamburger
Cheese: American
Extras: Bacon $4
Sides: Fries (or change for salad for $2+)
Sauce: “Fancy” Sauce
This one will be short and to the point. It’s been on my list for quite some time—a classic-looking diner situated between Downtown Brooklyn and Cobble Hill. It feels very much like a neighborhood institution, consistently busy and full of energy. The space isn’t particularly large, but it accommodates guests efficiently with a combination of bar seating, booths, and counter stools facing the large front windows.
The atmosphere is as casual as the service. There didn’t appear to be a formal uniform, though both my server and the hostess wore shades of green. I didn’t dwell on it long—especially after noticing they offered a Scotch & Soda highball. I wasn’t alone on this visit; my friend joined me, and we promptly ordered our burgers. I opted for the double, while she chose the single. Service was efficient, which was appreciated given our appetites. The burger comes with fries included, always a welcome detail.
The fries, unfortunately, were slightly overcooked and suggested the fryer oil could have been fresher. That said, the burger itself was pristine. It embodied old-school Americana—even arriving with a small American flag perched atop the bun. My friend, who added bacon, was pleasantly surprised to find it cut in a circular shape matching the patty, ensuring bacon in every bite. The burgers were topped with perfectly melted cheese, lettuce, and pickles. I would have welcomed the addition of onion, but overall, the execution was strong. Despite the fries’ imperfections, we finished them; a burger feels incomplete without them. I also appreciated the straightforward plating—no gimmicks, no miniature baskets—just fries on the plate and condiments served in classic red and yellow squeeze bottles.
From a price-to-flavor standpoint, there’s little to debate. If you’re in the area, it’s worth stopping in. The dry-aged beef delivers that distinctive, concentrated flavor recognizable to anyone familiar with the style. My friend noted that she appreciated the manageable size of her burger—it was satisfying without being overwhelming, leaving room for dessert.
We shared a Fior di Latte panna cotta finished with a drizzle of olive oil and flaky salt, a simple yet refined way to end the meal. The burger comfortably passes the quality-to-value ratio, and it’s a place I would return to without hesitation.