"LIVES UP TO THE HYPE" For the last few years I've been seeing videos on Tik-Tok and Facebook's "Reels" about Brennan & Carr, a Brooklyn institution that serves a famous roast beef sandwich. Video after video of the sandwich being dunked in the equally-famous "au jus" gravy that had my mouth watering. But I live in Westport, Connecticut, and though I go into Manhattan a lot (I used to live in the East Village), a rarely have a reason or need to go to Brooklyn, and I know few people there, so my wish to sample a Brennan & Carr roast beef has gone unrealized. Until this past Sunday. I recently befriended a fellow pop culture enthusiast and author who lives in Brooklyn, and he invited me to his book release party for his family and friends at his home on Sunday afternoon. When I Google-mapped my driving route, I wondered if Brennan & Carr might be close enough that I could go there after the afternoon party. To my surprise and joy, they were 5 minutes away! So I finally got to try a B&C RB sammie. Of course, I asked for it "all the way," with cheese, onions, and fully dipped in the au jus. That first bite was like a little taste of (roast beef) heaven!!! That first surge of "hot beef" flavor is unforgettable! I was amazed that the hefty bun it came on was able to simultaneously soak up all that au jus without falling apart at all! It maintained its integrity all the way to the final bite. Which, by the way, I could BARELY finish, it was so filling! I came practically starving, and that roast beef sandwich so filled me up that I barely touched the (excellent) onion rings that I had also ordered! Upon leaving (with a "dry" sandwich to go, with the au jus in a cup!), I had a great chat with the man at the cash register (whom I think was also the manager), Patrick Stackpole, about our shared love for Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone (that's a whole other story!). Suffice it to say, Brennan & Carr's roast beef sandwich more than lives up to the hype!!! Now if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna have my to-go roast beef for dinner! read more

Brennan & Carr - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

amazing food served by proper gentlemen. the beef plate was the perfect comfort meal with generous portions. traveled from long island just to try this place and will be going back! read more

Drove past this place for years and never went in, no idea why. Finally stopped in last week with my wife and honestly, should've done it sooner. The roast beef sandwich is the star here and for good reason. They slice it thin, pile a ton on, and the bread's already soaked in the jus by the time it gets to you, which sounds weird if you've never had it but trust me it's the move. Get it dipped again when they ask too, yes it's messy, just deal with it. Fries were fine, nothing crazy but good for dunking in the extra jus pooling on your plate. Had a beer too, don't remember what kind, just whatever was on tap. The inside is kind of a time capsule, feels like it hasn't changed in decades, in a good way. Staff just get you in and out, no small talk, which honestly I didn't mind. Only reason it's 4 and not 5 for me is this whole place is built around one thing, so you really gotta be into roast beef going in. But if that's your thing, this is about as good as it gets. Going back next time we're over that way. read more

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It's an old school restaurant with a dark dining room that seems like it's been there forever and I mean this in the best possible way. The service is impeccable, the wait staff is well versed in the menu and will offer help if you don't know how to truly get the best sandwich that you can. The star here is the roast beef sandwich, it's moist and flavorful and cooked absolutely perfectly. My suggestion is to order it with cheese and have it dunked in the au jus. I prefer what they call a "knife and fork job" where the sandwich, the meat the bread is all dunked and comes out in a river of au jus. They make amazing sides, I typically go for the onion rings and corn fritters which are tasty, fried nugget of sweet corn and they are delicious. Do note, they only take cash and sometimes it takes a while to get your food but in the end it is so very worth it. read more

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Though I grew up walking distance from this restaurant, I'd never been. And it's not new! Brennan & Carr was established in 1938. Curious about the "famous" Brooklyn roast beef war -- yeah! it's a thing! -- T and I decided to see for ourselves. (Once I try the competition I'll weigh in with my vote.) With a reputation built on beef we ignored other options and researched how to order. You can get double dip, "dingle-dangle" (don't ask), cheese/no cheese ... it was confusing. We both went with rare roast beef, cheese and onions. T asked for his double-dipped in gravy. Yum! Short of five stars, but yum nonetheless. We ordered two unhealthy sides which added to the decadence of our lunch: corn fritters and onion rings. If you only get one, go with the fritters. The place is busy. You'll likely have to wait a bit -- but I found it interesting to watch the guys at the counter work. Service was friendly and attentive. Unlike someone's comment about paying blind -- not so. We were given a check with an accurate breakdown of what we ordered. Prices are posted. And yes -- cash only. read more

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Brenna & Carr is a classic Brooklyn Sandwich Shop. They are famous for roast beef sandwiches with onions and a soft bun that they dip in au jus. I was here on a Sunday with some friends. I ordered the Gargiulo Burger which was the roast beef, cheese, and onions on top of a burger then dipped! Everyone else at the table got the roast beef sandwich. Mine was fantastic. I loved all the components of the sandwich. Loved the place with the wood paneling and table service. It is a throwback for sure. I was not too impressed with the French Fries or Sweet Potato fries (freezer bag). I'd happily return and was excited to try it. read more

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Cash only. It's not a huge place but they get steady crowds without feeling overcrowded. Very good at managing customer flow. Staff are super courteous and nice. Checked in multiple times. I came in with two little, not super rowdy but definitely kind of loud, talkative kids, and the rest of the restaurant was filled with mostly older adults having early lunch. Ordered cheeseburger, tenders, corn fritters, two roast beef's, lemonade, mozz sticks (4 per order). My oldest ate most of the cheeseburger which is a testament to being kid friendly who is pretty picky about quality (think brand specific hot dogs and sushi fish quality). The tenders were fried nicely; lightly crunchy and still moist, not stringy. Mozz sticks were eaten by the kids, I didn't get a chance to try, but they looked good! The corn fritters were crispy on the outside, had whole corn kernels inside and and slight custard like texture. I enjoyed them. The roast beef; a great sandwich and the au jus really makes it. I thing the bread choice is a preference. I prefer a crustier bread to go with au jus, but this roll is soft, so it gets very soft. Not quite soggy but almost. read more

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Husband and I ate inside restaurant for the first time last month. Food was delicious and service was great. read more

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https://blainerestaurantreport.wordpress.com/2026/10/03/brennan-carr-brooklyn-ny-report-1087/ read more

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I used to come here all the time when I was a little kid. I was going to be in the area and couldn't wait to stop by. Got the classic roast beef sandwich with the broth on the side just meat and bread and it's perfect. It literally tastes the same as it did when I was younger. For a side of fries which were okay and the corn fritters which I've never had but were so good. The servers are all wearing the traditional coat too. This place looks and feels the same and I love that nostalgic feeling to it. Just remember it's cash only! read more

Those that know...know, and those that don't highly recommend Old School Brooklyn restaurant know for their Roast Beef sandwich drenched in au jus and I mean the entire sandwich bun and all is drenched. Great atmosphere, all wood interior, I believe it's the same as when they opened in 1938. My only complaint is the waiter, and I think he was one of the owners Sullivan didn't say to you want cheese and onions with that roast beef sandwich, later on I saw on social media most people order it that way. The beer on tap is Bud or Bud light both come served in a very frosted and cold mug. Homemade blueberry or apple pie, blueberry pie was delicious a la mode with vanilla or chocolate ice cream. It's an experience of old school and old Brooklyn restaurants that you don't find anymore and this one is still doing it great. read more

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The food was ok the Service was ok and the ambiance was aged on perfect. Cash Only!!!! If you want a throw back experience this is for you. For me it was just ok. read more

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Brennan & Carr is one of those Brooklyn bucket list spots you just have to visit. The place was packed when we got there, so you can tell it's a local favorite. The moment you step inside, you're transported back in time. The old-school vibe really adds to the experience. We ordered their classic staples, and while nothing completely blew me away, everything was still really tasty. Definitely worth checking out at least once for the history and experience alone. read more

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If you love a juicy roast beef sandwich I think I'll enjoy this place. I do prefer a bit more flavor but that is just a preference. They are known for the gravy dipped roast beef. Defiantly a unique experience. read more

Brennan & Carr - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

as a frequent solo diner im quite used to slow and inattentive service so thats what i expected seeing how busy this place was when i visited but on the contrary, the service here was phenomenal. i got the roast beef sandwich and my waiter kindly hooked me up with an extra cup of au jus which changed this meal completely. instead of eating my roast beef sandwich with my hands as normal, i cut my sandwich up and dunked every bite in the au jus. corn fritters were also very fun and tasty. just remember to leave tip on the table before paying at the front. read more

Brennan & Carr - corn fritters - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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The greatest old school restaurant serving the best roast beef in NYC The old fashioned atmosphere adds to the experience. read more

Absolutely amazing every time. The roast beef dipped with cheese and onions is a must-order whenever I go -- easily one of the best sandwiches around. Just a heads up: it's cash only, so come prepared. I've been coming here for years and honestly can't believe I never left a review before now. Love this place. The ambiance is super old school in there and it takes awhile but it's worth it every-time :) read more

Get the roast beef sandwich. Juicy, perfectly sliced and filling. Get the cheese fries as well, it's non-negotiable. Very interesting old school ambiance. The pie alone is worth the trip read more

Brennan & Carr - Pie Apple, Blueberry - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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I've heard so many good things about this place but unfortunately they must've had an "off" night when we went because the food came out cold & the rolls tasted stale .. the cheese fries were great though! .. the place is very clean & the staff is friendly - gonna have to try this place again & hope it comes out better than the first time read more

The roastbeef and roast pork were absolutely delicious. Old school been around a long tome. Staff is friendly and dining room clean . Small interior seating as well as curbside ordering (side window). Highly recommended read more

This place is one of the few restaurants that I've been going to since I was a baby. Mostly my grandma loved this place and then my mom and my aunt loved this place and they always took us whenever we passed by. I still go sometimes with my mom and personally it's just a good memory place because of all the good memories shared by my family here. The food is delicious to be honest. I personally don't eat wings anywhere because they're just not my taste but here is probably my favorite place to get them. They are a little bit greasy, but they are also chicken wings that are fried so like get what you expect. Everyone else in my family lives for the roast beef sandwiches and you have to get them according to my family dipped in the liquid. Apparently it's the best way to eat them. And I have to agree. It does taste really good that way. The restaurant is definitely with a theme like old America and a little bit outdated, but it fits the vibe of the restaurant. Definitely a nice place to check out and if you live nearby, a good place to eat lunch every now and then. read more

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On vacation from CA and someone who grew up in Brooklyn, I finally got over to the icon Brennan & Carr. Loved the old time atmosphere. The owner was in and was very nice. Got us a table in 10 minutes. We all ordered the roast beef sandwich and they were delicious. Almost wishes I didn't get the fries, and opted for a second sandwich. That's how good they are. If you're in NY, get on train and make your way down to Brooklyn! read more

This restaurant brought us back to the old days with the ambiance and music. Service was good and waiters were friendly. We ordered the BEEF PLATE . The roast beef was very good and tender. The GARGIULO BURGER was good, but generally I do like my burgers medium rare so that was my fault in not making a specific request. read more

Brennan & Carr - Beef Plate - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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I've been coming to Brennan & Carr since I was a kid, and some places just never lose their magic. This spot is pure Brooklyn nostalgia in the best way. I ordered the roast beef with cheese double dipped, and it was exactly how I remember it.. tender, flavorful beef soaked in that signature gravy, stacked generously on a soft roll. The "double dip" is the move. Messy? Absolutely. Worth it? Every single time. The melted cheese just takes it over the top and makes it even more indulgent. There's something about walking in here that feels like stepping back in time.. no frills, no gimmicks, just consistently great sandwiches done the way they've always done them. The kind of place you bring your kids to one day because your parents brought you. The service great as always very attentive the servers have nick names for different areas of the restaurant, you gotta love it. If you know, you know. And if you don't, get the double-dipped and thank me later read more

Brennan & Carr is a true Brooklyn classic and a must-visit for anyone who loves a great roast beef sandwich. The roast beef is incredibly tender, sliced thin, and served on a soft roll that's dipped in rich, flavorful au jus, making every bite juicy and delicious. The simple, old-school atmosphere adds to the experience, and the friendly service makes you feel like a regular. If you're in Brooklyn, the roast beef sandwich at Brennan & Carr is one of those iconic meals you won't forget. And he told me that Guy Fieri and Adam Richmond had been there. My grandpa took me here from where I live in CA. It is a must go if your in NY/Brooklyn read more

Brennan & Carr - The famous roast beef sandwich - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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This place is a Brooklyn Classic -Respectful, courteous, very helpful waiters wearing white butcher jackets seat you in this small old fashioned real wood paneled dining room with a brick fireplace and simple wagon wheel chandeliers - very comfortable atmosphere. This is the kind of place where you can take a picture with friends or family, and it will be excellent and memorable photo! Let's get to the food - I've been coming here since I was 10, always getting the roast beef dip, which was and still is an amazing sandwich, but this time I got the exclusive Brennan and Carr "Gargiulo Burger". I get this occasionally because, "It's a different kind of Amazing sandwich!" Medium rare beef patty, juicy roast beef, cheese, but not too much, and some seriously tasty onions!!! I asked him to only give me a "Quick dip" in the beef broth, so the bun wasn't too soggy. You can taste the delicious roast beef and burger together in each bite... Heaven. Little known fact: "The Gargiulo Burger" was named after The Gargiulo Family, who, many years ago, loved and frequented Brennan and Carr's many years ago! All I have to say is "Thank God for The Gargiulo's!" Is it a burger, is it a sandwich, I really don't know - But I do know it is amazingly delicious! To be honest, In the decades I have been coming here, I have never had anything but delicious food and courteous service, it is the last of its kind... A true American classic. read more

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Best roast beef over 40 years. Broth is delicious . No style but taste can't be beat.

100% delicious.... The wing dings was average and salty but the burger with roast beef was amazing. Service was great as well. Aubiance is nothing to write home about but if you're going it's solely for the food not the ambiance. read more

Brennan & Carr - Soooooooo delicious, like wow. Please buy two one is not enough - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Food is always on point . Took my kids so they can finally try the Gargulio burger. 10 out of 10. Staff is very friendly as well , you won't be disappointed read more

Came for the clam chowder and had to come back the next day again because I couldn't stop dreaming about! Simple creamy soothing soup with chunky potatoes, omg what could be better on a rainy day? read more

Brennan & Carr - Clam Chowder with crackers and Tabasco. Perfect! - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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A true old-school Brooklyn gem. Brennan & Carr has a charm that's getting harder and harder to find--the classic standalone building and vintage atmosphere make you feel like you've stepped back in time. And the food lives up to the reputation: the roast beef is tender, flavorful, and absolutely delicious, especially with that rich broth. A real Brooklyn institution that has kept things simple and done them right for generations. read more

Nice old place and the staff were friendly and helpful but I'm not a huge roast beef fan but it was okay I just didn't like how wet the bread was but the carrots and fries were good read more

Brennan & Carr - Roast Beef Sandwich - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Food was alright. My wife was just happy we got everything pictured for $31. She enjoys affordable prices. I don't recommend getting the hot roast beef sandwich double dip, the buns come out soggy. But if the double dip and soggy buns are your thing, this place will be your jam. read more

Brennan & Carr - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Service was consistent and good. The food was good not great onion rings were good. Roast beef. The roast was very wet cheese and beef for good. read more

Brennan & Carr - Roast beef sandwich - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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I have lived in Brooklyn, my whole life and never have a once been to Brennan and Carr. My Boyfriend and I decided to go as he has been there a couple of times in the past the food was very disappointing, though the roast beef was not cheaply given. The bread was cold and so was the meat, and the cheese was not melted. The service was great. The ambience was also very nice, but I don't think I will be going back on a service of 1 to 10 I would have to give it a five the cheese didn't even taste real very disappointed. read more

A gem for all the best reasons. Delicious roast beef sliced super thin, dipped in a super flavorful broth, on the most perfect soft roll. Onion rings are irresistibly crunchy and sweet. Beer is served ice cold in a frosted mug. Love everything about this classic restaurant. read more

Fries: Good, Corn fritters: perfection, roast beef sandwich: soggy. Service: extremely poor. I've been here in the past when I was younger and remember great things, but today was really bad. I tried to get any staff members attention for about 20 minutes and they all just looked at me, nodded (acknowledged that I was looking for assistance) and then walked away. They didn't even bother to come back when I was trying to pay the bill. I just walked out and handed the money and bill to a random employee because I was at my wits end at that point. The tip was totally undeserved, but I understand the struggle of waiting tables. The only reason this review got 2 stars is because the food was semi good; I'm honestly just disappointed more than anything. read more

I've been coming here for years, but not so much over the last five. I stopped in recently as I was long overdue and the roast beef is as good as ever. I like my sandwich without cheese. Just onions and a light dip into the "gravy." Perfection. The staff is also first-class. Parking is hit or miss as they have a small lot, and there is a decent amount of street parking. read more

Brennan & Carr - The backside of the building. - American Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Famous, ancient roast beef spot in Brooklyn. Fairly small, with pretty uncomfortable seating. But the roast beef make it worth it. And the service is quick. Very much worth checking out, at least once. Place is a landmark. read more

Food was great, cool atmosphere, staff friendly, and good service. Will come again. Get the roast beef. I