About Us

Nestled in the heart of Sunnyside Gardens, The Skillman Bar & Restaurant has been proudly serving the neighborhood for over 10 years. With a cozy, timeless interior and a menu rooted in fresh, locally sourced ingredients, we offer a modern take on American fare that reflects the vibrant, diverse community around us.

Our menu changes with the seasons, always aiming to bring comfort, creativity, and flavor to the table. From weeknight dinners to weekend celebrations, The Skillman is a place where quality and atmosphere come together.

Owner and operator Gary Wiley – originally from County Cork, Ireland – brings decades of experience in the New York restaurant scene. A Sunnyside resident for over 20 years, Gary’s vision was simple: to bring Manhattan-style dining to his own neighborhood, while keeping the warmth and familiarity of a true local spot.

The Skillman has become a trusted destination for private events and celebrations of all kinds. Whether it’s a family gathering, a milestone party, a work event, or an intimate farewell, we offer a warm, stylish space tailored to your occasion. We also host a limited number of weddings each year, giving couples the chance to celebrate in a setting that feels both personal and unforgettable.

What Our Customers Are Saying

Great food, super friendly staff members, constantly awesome ambience. They charge fair rates and the food quality is awesome. Highly recommended.

Great place for food and drinks! Been coming here for about a year and have ate countless meals yet I’ve never had a bad one. Fantastic salmon and steak dinners. The owner is extremely nice and so is the staff.

We held our daughter’s wedding reception at The Skillman in October 2023, and everything was perfect. Gary and his team were warm, attentive, and the food and atmosphere were exceptional. It was a truly special evening our family still talks about.