4. Sheepshead Bay is known for its roast beef
The golden age of Sheepshead Bay seafood restaurants may be gone, but its roast beef scene it still thriving. For 52 years, Roll-n-Roaster has been serving its famed roast beef sandwiches with or without gravy and cheese. The Emmons Avenue classic was opened by Brooklyn native Buddy Lamonica, and not much has changed since (other than the prices).
The interior consists mainly of old wood, with historic chandeliers and a giant orange and green menu, below which is a sign that reads “We cook to order and your wait will be tastefully rewarded.” Though known for its roast beef, the restaurant also has a selection of fried seafood, hamburgers, pizzas, and sides, including its famed corn fritters.
On the other edge of Sheepshead Bay on Avenue U is Brennan and Carr, which was opened in 1938 by George Brennan and Edward Carr. The Sullivan family, the current owners, took over in the 1970s. Alice Sullivan and her son Russ worked for the original owners. The restaurant started out with just roast beef sandwiches, but the menu has expanded since. The full-service restaurant has maintained its historic wooden interior with decades-old chandeliers and curtains. Over the years it has been featured on shows like “Man Vs. Food” and “Travel Thirsty.” The menu is grounded by its roast beef sandwich, still selling for under $10, but also includes burgers, chicken sandwiches, wing dings, and blueberry pie. The restaurant recently introduced roast pork loin to the menu, dipped in a savory au jus or served with caramelized onions and cheese.