Lonnies opened its doors last week on Atlantic Avenue, a short walk from the subway at Hoyt-Schermerhorn. The restaurant is the latest project from the team behind Inga’s Bar, a neighborhood fixture in Brooklyn Heights. By Tuesday evening, the dining room was nearly full by 7 p.m., with a mix of local residents and diners who appeared to have come from other parts of Brooklyn.
The space is compact, with a bar up front and closely arranged tables along the brick walls. Menu prices hover in the mid-$20s for mains. On Monday, a chicken schnitzel with braised cabbage was $26. A plate of roasted carrots and labneh was $14. Bread arrives warm, served with a small dish of softened butter.
Service moved at an even pace during a busy stretch around 8 p.m. Dishes arrived in steady succession, and staff answered questions about the relatively brief menu. Wine options leaned European, with glasses starting at $13.
Lonnies does not take reservations for parties under four. By 6:45 p.m. on Friday, a short line had formed outside. The clientele skewed young, with several tables occupied by groups of friends and a few solo diners at the bar. Lighting remained low, with music at a level that did not overpower conversation.
The restaurant’s ownership has not announced plans for brunch or lunch service. For now, Lonnies is open for dinner six nights a week, closed Sundays. The team’s previous experience at Inga’s Bar appears to have shaped their approach, focusing on concise menus and understated presentation.