About
Nestled at the picturesque Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pilot is a unique seafood destination that harmoniously blends a trendy, nautical flair with a casual dining experience. Imagine savoring exquisite seafood dishes while gently swaying on a vintage boat – that’s the promise Pilot delivers. With breathtaking views of downtown Manhattan and a warm, inviting atmosphere, it’s a spot that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also feeds your soul.
At Pilot, diners can expect a menu that celebrates the ocean's bounty. The offerings range from freshly shucked oysters, with variety names that are more than just labels – think Montauk Pearl and Kusshi – to hearty entrees like Seared Dayboat Scallops paired with sweet corn succotash and a delightful Lobster Roll that’s packed with succulent Maine lobster. There’s even a range of vegetarian options available, ensuring everyone finds something to love.
The brunch selection is particularly noteworthy. Indulge in the Smoked Salmon paired with a rich lemon basil mascarpone, or opt for the refreshing Avocado Toast topped with poached eggs and charred chiles. The culinary creations are a reflection of the culinary artistry that Pilot strives for, making each bite a memorable delight.
What truly sets Pilot apart is its atmosphere. Customers have shared experiences of enjoying their meals while watching the sunset, framed by charming yellow and white striped canopies. The welcoming service adds to the ambiance, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a delightful dining experience. As one visitor poetically put it, “a perfect blend of good company, delicious food, and a unique maritime experience.”
Moreover, Pilot offers amenities that cater to a diverse clientele. They welcome walk-ins, provide reservations, and even allow furry friends to join in the fun with dog-friendly outdoor seating. For those who enjoy a little competition, there's a pool table to challenge your dining companions.
As for beverages, Pilot doesn’t skimp on the libations. A full bar complements the seafood menu, making it the perfect place for sipping cocktails while lounging in the sunset. Whether you’re there for a casual dinner with friends, a romantic date night, or simply to unwind after a long day, Pilot caters to all moods and occasions.
In conclusion, if you’re searching for a restaurant that merges stunning views, fresh seafood, and a relaxed yet stylish environment, make your way to Pilot. This is not just another dining experience; it’s a celebration of flavors and community, all aboard a delightful vessel.
“ My friend and I came here spontaneously cause we happened to pass by and was like "oysters on a boat??" Downnnn!! Even though both of us get motion sickness. A price I had to pay. We got lucky cause we got seated right away during sunset. Ordered some oysters and cocktails which were good. Eventually, the rockyness did get to me and I had to go to the bathroom to throw up. Unfortunately dramamine makes me too drowsy and the bracelets don't work. I may have to resort to the silly goggles. ”
“ Finally tried this place after biking past so many times over the years, and after one missed reservation. We walked in and sat at the front bar on a Tuesday evening. We ordered strawberry cocktails and enjoyed the romantic sunset behind the cityscape. Love the yellow and white striped canopies over the tables. The fries with sage aioli and spiced ketchup were a bit too salty but perfectly fried and crispy. It was a complementary pairing with the watermelon tomato salad with shiso. Had to taste the chocolate gateau made for two garnished with rum-pumped raisins and served with three small scoops of ice cream. Honestly, I wish the proportions of ice cream were in line with the cake. Could've used several more perfect bites. Anyway, the bar seating was decent, we had to move once because they seated us near the silverware rollers which was pretty noisy and also blocking our view. We had asked to be seated at the 10+ empty tables but they said none were available and by the time we had left, those tables were still empty. So I recommend making a reservation if you want an actual table. ”
“ Welcoming our best friends from Virginia at Pilot was a fantastic experience. The vintage boat on Pier 6 offered a charming setting, and the seafood, especially the oysters, was a hit. With a variety of wines and cocktails to choose from, we enjoyed a delightful evening. The added bonus of a downtown Manhattan view enhanced the overall atmosphere. Just a heads up for friends prone to seasickness - the boat's gentle sway is part of the adventure. Pilot is more than a bar; it's a perfect blend of good company, delicious food, and a unique maritime experience. ”
“ I enjoy this place for brunch very much, it's literally located on a boat so if aware if you can get seasick easily! Everything I got was amazing, the oysters were small but sweet and flavorful. The crudo sea beam was very appetizing and refreshing because of it's citrusy taste along with some herb and tomatillo. The hash browns was well cooked and just perfect and you can pair with the steelhead caviar, sour cream and pickled onions and transcend the flavor to the next level. The lobster roll was buttery and surprising with a generous amount of lobster! I added the leftover caviar on top of it and it's full of seafood umami flavor. At the end, I had the key lime mousse and the gateau, and the gateau was a delicious crumbly chocolaty cake/cookie mixture, I couldn't finish it because I was too full but I wish I could have. ”
“ I took myself for a date to this incredible restaurant last weekend. The best part about eating solo is not having to share. Is that the worst part? Either way, I enjoyed every single bite. Even though I didn't have a reservation. ,they were kind enough to accomodate me at the perfect table with the most perfect view.. literally! All of the staff, from the hostess to the bartenders to the servers were all extremely friendly and hospitable. Food wise, I ordered the Polpette (Sirloin and brisket meatballs with tomato compote and basil garlic toast), Sea-Scallops (Seared dayboat-scallops with sweet-corn succotash and coriander emulsion) and also... the french fries. Of the three, the meatballs was certainly my favorite however each really held their own.. and yes, even the french fries! I washed it all down with a delicious ice-cold Sundae draft. I can't wait to come back, perhaps with a friend or date. In the meantime, I have fond memories with myself here to look back on. 5/5! ”
“ Bringing a child to Pilot, a floating sailboat with cocktails and seafood, is the absolute height of bougie parenting. On second thought, the fact that I think that probably means I've never been near the true highs of bougie parenting. No matter. Sitting and sipping $18 cocktails with expansive views of the Manhattan skyline, with a summertime breeze to boot...it's nice. I like it. The seafood is good, the service is usually great, and although your bill is going to be higher than you might like, you're essentially paying for a vacation without having to leave Brooklyn. I've heard you can also go without your kid, but I don't get to do much without my kids these days. Don't worry though, I only go right after they open, so as not to bother childless folks with my questionable life choices. ”
“ Go for the views and stay for the views! This was a bit of a last minute dinner on a Monday evening -- we were able to grab a reservation two hours before dinner and were seated at the "bar," where you can watch the oysters being shucked. It felt like an especially windy/choppy evening with stuff kinda flying around, but that didn't let anyone down. It couldn't have been easy but our server held the everything down, so big props to him. Loved everything that we ordered and shared: lobster salad, tomato and watermelon salad (bursting with flavor), truffle fries (ordered twice lol), oysters and meatballs. We didn't get alcohol due to the rocky waters and instead got their non-alcoholic drinks. It all came out to $85/pp and I wouldn't say I was stuffed, so you're definitely paying for the views/experience! I'll try brunch on the boat another time. ”
“ I love the summertime. I love boats. Most of all, I love food. All 3 combined, I loved everything about Pilot. The views were unbeatable. Actually, breathtaking Pilot is one of several boat restaurants by the same hospitality group. I visited Grand Banks several years ago and really enjoyed my experience. With Pilot on my bucket list, I passed by last year and recalled the hostess strongly recommending a reservation as tables book quickly. No surprise there. Everyone wants in on this glorious experience. However, with the weather being unpredictable yesterday, we walked right in and landed a table. Our server, the lovely Alexa, informed us that many cancelations took place. The weather was just how I liked it--hot, humid, overcast and the true definition of a July summer day. Gradually, people started arriving and the capacity was nearly filled. The menu was mainly seafood with raw oysters taking the stage. There was a brunch and a lunch/dinner menu. Due to the time we arrived, we browsed the latter. Cocktail selections were interesting. When the Mariner didn't work for us, Alexa kindly replaced it with the IKO IKO which was refreshing and delicious. Recommend! We shared the Crudo as a starter, which at $20, should have been skipped in retrospect. Although it was good, it was not only too skimpy to share but just a teeny portion overall. For main, we both selected the Steelhead Trout. Even though it was Trout, it could easily be mistaken for Salmon. Upon being served, it included two delicate, crispy seared pieces on a crema sauce with three fingerling potatoes. Definitely enjoyed it. Definitely delicious and highly recommend. Other selections on the menu were salads and lobster roll, but happy I chose the Trout. It was executed very well and flavorful/healthy. I really enjoyed my lunch experience at Pilot. What to know--the boat is docked but moves. I didn't mind since it enhanced the experience for me. Really nice spot. Go! ”