New York City, often dubbed the concrete jungle, is home to a myriad of dining experiences. While the bustling indoors of eateries vibrate with life, there’s something refreshing about enjoying a meal al fresco. Dining outside not only amplifies the flavors of food but also transforms the ambiance into a vibrant tapestry of urban life. Here are ten remarkable places to savor meals under the open sky across various New York neighborhoods.
1. The Berry
Address: 25 Peltz St, Brooklyn, NY 11206
Contact: (718) 484-2862
Website: theberry.com
Nestled in the heart of East Williamsburg, The Berry is a culinary ode to all things delightful. With a sprawling backyard adorned with string lights and rustic charm, patrons can partake in seasonal brunch favorites or artisanal sandwiches. The atmosphere is inviting, making it the perfect venue for a lazy Sunday morning or a lively afternoon gathering.
2. Le Restaurant
Address: 105 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 727-0343
Website: lerestaurantnyc.com
Tucked away in Greenwich Village, Le Restaurant offers an exquisite French dining experience with a quaint outdoor terrace. This charming spot serves an array of classic French dishes ranging from coq au vin to delectable pastries. Its intimate setting is perfect for a romantic dinner or an elegant brunch, where the sights and sounds of the Village echo the essence of Paris.
3. Rooftop at Exchange Place
Address: 4 New York Plaza, New York, NY 10004
Contact: (646) 685-6000
Website: rooftopatexchange.com
Perched atop the financial district, this rooftop bar offers breathtaking views of the iconic skyline and the harbor. An eclectic menu featuring small bites and signature cocktails complements the vast, airy terrace. Visitors can unwind while watching the sunset reflect off the skyscrapers, providing an enchanting backdrop for any occasion.
4. Casa Enrique
Address: 5-48 49th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101
Contact: (718) 729-2287
Website: casaenrique.com
Nestled in Long Island City, Casa Enrique celebrates authentic Mexican cuisine. Outside seating adorned with vibrant colors invites diners to relish mouthwatering tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole. The warm atmosphere and creative cocktails enhance the culinary journey, making each visit a miniature escape into Mexico.
5. Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pier 6
Address: 334 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: (718) 722-2546
Website: brooklynbridgepark.org
Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park offers a stunning outdoor food court style eatery. With options ranging from tacos and lobster rolls to BBQ fare, it’s a feast for the senses. The unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline enhance the experience, allowing for leisurely meals amid the interactive park amenities available for families.
6. Haven’s Kitchen
Address: 109 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001
Contact: (212) 691-0555
Website: havenskitchen.com
A culinary school and café combined, Haven’s Kitchen promotes a farm-to-table ethos. Its picturesque garden makes for a serene outdoor dining experience in the bustling area of Chelsea. Patrons can indulge in fresh, locally sourced dishes and participate in cooking classes, creating a multisensory experience that blends dining and learning.
7. Smorgasburg
Address: 90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Contact: (646) 283-1549
Website: smorgasburg.com
Each weekend, Smorgasburg transforms into a culinary mecca, featuring a plethora of food vendors offering an array of delectable cuisines. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Williamsburg waterfront, it’s a fabulous spot to explore new dishes and mingle with locals. A casual atmosphere brimming with energy, one can relish from savory to sweet bites while enjoying views of the Manhattan skyline.
8. Gallow Green
Address: 542 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Contact: (212) 564-1662
Website: gallowgreen.com
The rooftop bar and restaurant of The McKittrick Hotel, Gallow Green is a unique space that feels like an enchanted garden. The outdoor seating is immersed in greenery and fairy lights, creating an ethereal escape from the urban landscape. Specializing in inventive cocktails and seasonal dishes, it is the ideal venue for those looking to unwind in a whimsical setting.
9. The Highline Hotel’s Coffee Shop
Address: 180 10th Avenue, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 929-3880
Website: thehighlinehotel.com
The Highline Hotel boasts a charming coffee shop that emphasizes a relaxed outdoor mettle. Under the dappled sunlight, patrons can sip meticulously brewed coffee while enjoying house-made pastries or light bites. The unique vibe, paired with the historical architecture surrounding it, adds to the pleasure of lounging outside.
10. Red Rooster
Address: 310 Lenox Ave, New York, NY 10027
Contact: (212) 792-9001
Website: redroosternyc.com
Located in the heart of Harlem, Red Rooster serves Southern comfort food with a twist. With its outdoor patio, it allows guests to enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere while indulging in dishes like fried chicken and cornbread. The lively ambiance is magnified with music and community engagement, reflecting the heart and soul of Harlem.
Exploring these vibrant outdoor dining venues not only elevates your culinary experience but also provides a unique lens through which to view the neighborhoods. Whether it’s the cozy feel of a backyard garden or the vibrant buzz of a rooftop bar, New York’s outdoor dining scene offers a tapestry of tastes and textures that beckon you to adventure. Immerse yourself in these locales and let the city’s pulse resonate in every bite.
