Hollow Nickel

The Hollow Nickel is the quintessential dive bar. The atmosphere is cozy, the drinks are reasonably priced, and the vibes are almost always good.Located on Atlantic Avenue, the space itself is deceptively large. Upon entry, you are greeted by an L shaped bar, with high tops on the left, a booth in the front, and then several booths and tables in the back. There is a TV, but rather than sports like you'd see at most dive bars, there is usually a movie on. There is also a backyard to the bar, which is lovely in the summertime. As you'd expect, you order everything at the bar, food included, and there is no waiter service aside from the staff running your food to your table. There is a reasonable collection of draft beers, focusing on somewhat higher end beers rather the standard collection of macro brews. Additionally there are a handful of cocktails, and a few drink specials (I often take advantage of the shot and beer combo). The drink selection is nothing fancy, but it gets the job done.There's also a food menu, including burgers, a hot dog, chicken wings and other bar staples. Overall the food is surprisingly good. I'm quite fond of the spicy smash burger, and the wings are pretty good as well. So far I don't think I've had anything that is poorly made, and they seem to put a bit more effort in to the food than other bars. What really sets the Hollow Nickel apart to me is the service. The bartenders are friendly, and help foster a community feeling in the bar. If you find yourself a regular, a nod and a smile will have your usual drink prepared quickly. The other patrons are usually pretty friendly, and it's not uncommon for me to find myself chatting with other people at the bar when I come for a drink on my own. I'm not quite sure what they've done, but the Hollow Nickel is just a nice place to be filled with generally nice people.If you want a drink and maybe some food, the Hollow Nickel won't do you wrong. It's exactly the type of bar you like to know is an option.

Nice place to grab a cold one- cool back yardService was all goodWe enjoyed ourselves

We are your stereotypical tourists and we were planning on spending big $$ at this place - but when we arrived we were not acknowledged and the place was not tourist friendly. No idea what to do, wait or seat yourself? No idea how to order food (unless you're sitting at the bar because the bar tender was the only employee we saw).

Stopped by for a late night beer off the plane. Seems like a nice neighborhood bar though sadly the kitchen was already closed. Liked my pilsner though.

I've been coming here sporadically over the years but this is the best dive bar option in a neighborhood filled with fancy schmancies. Don't get me wrong, as much as I love me my fancy cocktails, the unassuming dive bar (with a backyard space and ample seating) is an underrated staple for those days where you don't want to get trussed up and just want a low key hang out with friends. Nice staff, great prices and a good happy hour. Some easy food options too, if you're in the mood for actual nourishment. Solid choice for all those reasons.

Service was great! The Hollow Nickel was more than I expected and just what I was looking for. Whoever recommended the Penicillin was on point.The pub fare was tasty. I had expected their spicy burger to be more than a slow after-burn, but the jalapeno sauce had flavor. The fried pickles were good, but would recommend a different side.Although I visited solo and enjoyed the atmosphere, I recommend going with friends to enjoy the drinks and company.

Stumbled in here after the Q swept me into BKN directly after Canal St (go figure...I won't ask the MTA to explain their absurdities anymore )Alas, I digress!Hollow Nickel's got an awesomely rustic aura...almost like a Pirate Ship. Friggin' Sweet.The bartenders behind the Helm, Mark and Sancho, were laid back and amicable dudes, who made me feel right at home and ensured my glass was full.I didn't have the chance to try the food, because I was stuffed from a big, late lunch...so can't comment there. That being said, the Victory Pale Ale and Jame-o (or several, if I'm being truthful...) was all I needed to smooth out the 20 year ol' chip that lays atop my shoulder!Oh ... and Karate Kid on the Tube; Tom Petty on the Sonos ... Yep, this place is a Nickel plated with pure , 30-Karat Gold!

Bartender was an asshole. Didn't even order and our group of 8 left. Will never be back or recommend this place to anyone. If this was my business, the guy serving tonight wouldn't be an employee anymore.

Stumbled into a wonderful place. Such friendliness. Emily in Paris on the tv??? Beer and a shot, the ambiance is dive vibes I love it in here

A great find in the area. Good beer, good food, good staff, great atmosphere.Spots like these are the ones you want near you. A perfect little spot to grab some good bar food and a drink on a Friday night.Lively but not too crowded. Will return again!