The burger that got me into the restaurant business
I liked Billy Durney's burger so much I talked him into a restaurant with me.
Fair warning: this one is personal. I loved Billy Durney and his burgers so much that I talked him into becoming my partner at Sag Harbor Tavern. So yes, I'm biased. I'd tell you about this burger anyway.
Red Hook Tavern is Billy's place in Brooklyn, a little out of the way on purpose. The burger is the reason people make the trip: dry-aged beef, American cheese, raw onion, a sesame bun. That's it. It's built on the Peter Luger burger and it doesn't apologize for it. The Times called it absolutely mandatory, and they don't hand that out.
Some people get into the restaurant business for the glamour. I got into it for a burger.
Go early, get the burger, and take the long way back through Red Hook.
Save Red Hook Tavern, and the day around it
Chef keeps it in your places with what to get, and puts a whole day in New York in your Trips, Red Hook Tavern at 5:30pm. Plus a real person's favorite place every morning. Free, no password.
Already have an account? Use that email and we'll take you to sign in.
Brian B.: Media entrepreneur, restaurateur and the family meal planner.
More stories
Sit at the counter at Scott'sLondon · Scott's
The sandwich worth planning a morning aroundSiracusa · Caseificio BorderiChef Amazing remembers every place you ate, keeps the lists friends send you, and helps you cook it at home.
Our founder's story · For chefs and food creators · Privacy · Terms