Nestled in the vibrant heart of Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, Black Forest Brooklyn Smith Street stands as a culinary beacon, offering a genuine taste of German tradition reimagined for the modern New York palate. Located prominently at 181 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States, this establishment is more than just a restaurant; it is an experience that transports patrons directly to the rustic charm and hearty hospitality of the Black Forest region of Germany. Since opening its doors, the restaurant has dedicated itself to the craft of authentic European cooking, focusing on high-quality ingredients and time-honored preparation methods. It serves as a vital cultural touchpoint in the neighborhood, blending the rich history of German gastronomy with the dynamic energy of Brooklyn life.
The atmosphere at Black Forest Brooklyn is carefully curated to feel both sophisticated and welcoming. Exposed brick, warm lighting, and thoughtful décor create an environment conducive to lingering conversations and memorable meals. Whether you are seeking a cozy spot for a weeknight dinner or a lively venue for a weekend gathering, the setting complements the robust menu perfectly. The commitment to authenticity extends beyond the recipes; it permeates the service, ensuring every guest feels like a cherished visitor.
What sets Black Forest Brooklyn Smith Street apart in the competitive New York dining scene is its unwavering dedication to core principles that define exceptional dining. We invite you to explore the elements that make this location a must-visit destination for food lovers across the boroughs and beyond.
Key Highlights of the Black Forest Experience
Authentic Culinary Heritage: The menu is deeply rooted in traditional German cuisine, featuring expertly prepared classics that honor regional specialties. This commitment ensures that every dish served reflects the genuine flavors and techniques passed down through generations. Patrons can expect rich, satisfying flavors crafted with precision and care, moving beyond simple stereotypes to showcase the depth of German cooking.
Prime Location and Accessibility: Situated on Smith Street, a renowned corridor for excellent dining and local commerce, the restaurant benefits from high visibility and easy access for both local residents and visitors exploring Brooklyn. Its central location makes it an ideal stop after exploring nearby parks or cultural sites, seamlessly integrating into the neighborhood's rhythm.
Focus on Quality Ingredients: A cornerstone of the Black Forest philosophy is the sourcing of superior ingredients. The kitchen prioritizes freshness and quality, understanding that the foundation of great food lies in the raw materials. This meticulous selection process elevates familiar dishes, ensuring a superior textural and flavor profile in every bite, whether it is a slow-braised meat or a freshly baked pretzel.
Warm and Inviting Ambiance: The interior design successfully marries rustic European elements with contemporary Brooklyn aesthetics. This thoughtful balance creates an environment that encourages relaxation and enjoyment. It is a space designed for connection, where the hustle of the city fades away, replaced by the comforting warmth of traditional hospitality.
The dedication to these core pillars—heritage, location, quality, and atmosphere—forms the bedrock of the Black Forest Brooklyn identity. It is this holistic approach that transforms a simple meal into a rich cultural immersion.
A Culinary Invitation Awaits
Black Forest Brooklyn Smith Street, located at 181 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States, is poised to offer an unparalleled dining adventure. It represents a successful bridge between the old world and the new, delivering hearty, authentic German fare in a setting that feels perfectly at home in modern Brooklyn. We encourage you to step inside, leave the ordinary behind, and immerse yourself in the robust flavors and genuine warmth that define this unique establishment. Whether you are a long-time admirer of European cuisine or simply searching for your next favorite neighborhood spot, Black Forest Brooklyn promises a dining experience characterized by quality, tradition, and heartfelt service. Come and taste the tradition for yourself.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
From the business
Identifies as Black-owned
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Sport
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Happy-hour drinks
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid street parking
Menus
Soft Drinks
MilkUS$6.60
Iced TeaUS$3.58
Diet CokeUS$3.30
LemonadeUS$5.50
Ginger AleUS$3.30
ApfelschorleUS$3.30
SpriteUS$3.30
Seltzer WaterUS$3.30
CokeUS$3.30
Desserts
Schwarzwälder KirschtorteUS$13.20
Scoop Of Vanilla Ice CreamUS$2.20
Flourless Chocolate CakeUS$11.00
Bottled Beer
Gaffel KölschUS$24.20
Other Half Green City IPAUS$25.30
Weihenstephan Hefe WeissbierUS$22.00
Hofbräu Original 6-PackUS$20.00
Schöfferhofer GrapefruitUS$20.00
Rothaus Pils 6-PackUS$30.80
Schneider AventinusUS$9.90
Köstritzer SchwarzbierUS$26.40
Stiegl Goldbräu 6-PackUS$20.00
Radeberger PilsnerUS$20.00
Hofbräu Dunkel 6-PackUS$20.00
Weihenstephan Kristall WeissbierUS$6.60
Jever PilsnerUS$20.00
Starters
RiesenbrezelUS$15.40
Flammkuchen OriginalUS$24.20
Beet SaladUS$17.60
Jamaican Jerk Jumbo Chicken Wings !US$15.40
Kale Apple SaladUS$17.60
Flammkuchen WaldschratUS$24.20
BrezelUS$6.00
Flammkuchen BauernmädchenUS$24.20
Champignons Im BierteigUS$15.40
3P Brunch Food
Bratwurst Gravy & BiscuitsUS$17.60
French ToastUS$15.40
Black Forest BenediktUS$17.60
German WafflesUS$13.20
Chicken And WafflesUS$19.80
Huevos RancherosUS$17.60
Rolled OmeletteUS$15.40
Two Eggs Any StyleUS$13.20
Schnitzel A La MeyerUS$28.60
Sides
Side Spicy Citrus KaleUS$7.70
Side Grilled ChickenUS$5.50
Plain SausageUS$9.00
Side Mashed PotatoesUS$7.70
Side Potato SaladUS$7.70
Side Mushroom GravyUS$4.40
Side Extra Pretzel RollUS$2.20
Side FriesUS$7.70
Side SpätzleUS$7.70
Side SauerkrautUS$7.70
Coffee & Tea
Iced CocoaUS$4.95
LatteUS$4.95
Hot CocoaUS$4.95
AmericanoUS$3.58
Iced LatteUS$4.95
DripUS$3.30
Hot TeaUS$3.58
CappuccinoUS$4.68
Hot CiderUS$4.40
EspressoUS$3.58
Mains
Black Forest BurgerUS$19.80
NürnbergerUS$23.50
KäsespätzleUS$22.00
Sausage BasketUS$17.60
Rindergulasch Mit SpätzleUS$24.00
Build Your Own SchnitzelUS$32.00
WurstplatteUS$49.50
The Impossible BurgerUS$19.80
WeisswurstUS$19.80
Photos
Reviews Black Forest Brooklyn Smith Street
Sam Andras
10-12-2025
Our’s was a family dinner with my wife, daughter, and her partner. We started with the French Onion Soup and a pretzel. Both were exceptional with the FOS setting the bar. Our main meal consisting of pork and chicken schnitzel, bratwurst, and goulash. Our sides included potato salad and sauerkraut. Overall, the meal was exceptional.
The server was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and made sure our needs were met. The atmosphere was good, though a bit loud from a large family group that was celebrating life.
We would recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking an exceptional German meal.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
French Onion
Kristian Singh-Nergård
30-11-2025
This beer garden has a good selection of beers, though not the largest selection I've seen. The food is good (definitely get the pretzel). At your table you scan the QR code, look at the menu and order and pay through your phone. The waiters will bring what you ordered and it takes no time at all. The drawback is that you have to wave for the waiter if you have questions or are looking for recommendations, but it's definitely a lot more efficient this way. The staff is very friendly and courteous. I keep coming back to this place and it has a nice vibe.
Tamara Bosworth
02-10-2025
1 n Done.
The food was good but with only 3 tables of people I can imagine why we had to walk to the bar after 30 minutes to get our beverages or get s personto acknowledge us....every time.
As we we're practically done it did seem like someone responsible came in to work. But at that point the drinks were.warm and the food was cold. I'm all for casual dining but at 30 bucks a plate you better step it up.
Could be why there were only 3 tables of people.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100+
Daniel B
29-09-2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
Black Forest Brooklyn
Solid spot if you want a casual beer garden vibe with dog-friendly outdoor seating. My pup was comfortable, which is always a plus.
Food-wise, I went for the Käsebratwurst: spicy pork and beef sausage with New York cheddar, fries, sauerkraut, and a kaiser bun. The fries were the star, crispy and addicting. Sauerkraut (and I don’t usually love sauerkraut) was surprisingly tasty, balanced, not too sour. The mustard was excellent: grainy, tangy, clearly thought out.
The sausage? Fine. Decent, but “spicy” oversold it, it had more of a mild warmth than a real kick. Cheddar tucked inside gave it some richness, but it didn’t wow me. A perfectly okay beer garden sausage, but not something I’d go out of my way for again.
Drinks: I stuck with Wolffer Cider Rosé, always a reliable choice, light and refreshing. They’ve got a proper German-heavy menu, but it leans very traditional, so make sure you’re in the mood for that.
Ambience: Backyard seating is pleasant with umbrellas and plenty of tables, though the space is more functional than cozy. Still, it’s a relaxed place to hang with a drink.
Would I come back? Maybe for a casual cider and fries, especially if I’ve got the dog in tow. But Brooklyn’s got too many great restaurants for me to put this on repeat rotation.
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 3
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
3-4 people
Kelvin M
14-09-2025
Went there with friends and it was a very pleasant time. The beer was good and you can generally pick between pint, liter and 2 liter. The pretzels and fries were really good, try the spicy kale it was surprisingly on point! There was also a live band!
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Reservation
Reservations not required
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Outdoor patio / terrace
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Clearly labeled vegetarian dishes
Vegetarian options
There's some vegetarian options. But watch out vegans the fries come with mayo for example.
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free street parking
Kid-friendliness
There were a bunch of kids playing around no problem
Kevin Zeng
06-08-2025
Good food. Love the forest burger. I think the fries can be better. It’s too thin. The beer is the key food.
Service is slow cuz it’s Oktoberfest.
Atmosphere can be great. I love the wood table.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Cheryl Evans
02-06-2025
We stopped in for drinks and appetizers while staying in the hotel. The drinks (old fashions) we perfect and we enjoyed the wings and fries. The bartenders were super nice and took great care of us. If you are in the area give it a try!
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
2 people
Wait time
No wait
Jennie Rivera
16-04-2025
How did I miss out on this spot for so long? The meals here combine good taste with satisfaction. The spot shows attention to detail in cleanliness and mood. Their workers made dining easy. I value having this spot in our community.
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Special events
Not sure
Wait time
No wait
Seating type
Bar area
Recommendation for vegetarians
Not sure
Vegetarian offerings
Not sure
Parking space
Not sure
Parking options
Parking is unavailable
Kid-friendliness
This venue exceeds expectations.
Mimi Bres
17-03-2025
The food was good, but not great. Bar food, which I guess this really was. The service was very fast. I ordered soup, and before I'd eaten half, the mains arrived. Noisy with music playing.
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 3
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 3
Noise level
Loud, but you can still talk
Group size
1 person, 2 people, 3-4 people, 5-8 people
Wait time
No wait
Douglas Bearak
26-12-2024
I have been for my dad’s birthday on several occasions, but today I had a small Bark Day party for my puppy. The outdoor seating with heat lamps were pawfect for us! Anywhere with dog friendly seating is a must re-visit. Also the food is delicious!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Brezel, Breaded Veal
Reviews Black Forest Brooklyn Smith Street