Top Spots | Dining Al Fresco
August may be a slow and sweltering month to be in the city, but, in the evening hours when temperatures drop, dining al fresco can be quite enjoyable, especially with a cool cocktail in hand.
Stay away from the trendy spots, which will no doubt have a very long wait, and turn to some of New York’s iconic restaurants for delicious food and scenic outdoor seating.
From pretty neighborhood streets to hidden garden terraces, here are a few of our favorite spots around town to gather friends for a lazy summer get-together.
The Harrison (355 Greenwich St at Harrison, 212 274 9310)
This charming restaurant, from the owners of The Red Cat, has sidewalk seating for up to 40 people facing a quiet block in Tribeca. They serve a rustic, seasonal menu by chef Amanda Freitag and have a tradition of Sunday Suppers, a weekly prix fixe meal of 3-courses consisting of homestyle dishes.
Bottino (246 Tenth Avenue at 24th Street, 212 206 6766)
Opened in 1998, this Tuscan eatery was one of the first restaurants in West Chelsea. Now it remains a popular neighborhood spot for the art scene and boasts a modern, outdoor area at the back of the restaurant ideal for group dining and small events. The menu is simple and seasonal with well executed favorites like Fennel, Baby Arugula and Shaved Parmigiano Salad and Ravioli Verdi, homemade spinach pasta with fresh ricotta and swiss chard.
Paradou (8 Little West 12th Street at Gansevoort, 212 463 8345)
This quaint French restaurant was an early resident of the now bustling Meatpacking District. It’s a 19th century carriage house amid a sea of trendy, modern shops and clubs. Walk to the back to a hidden garden for a romantic setting that works well for an intimate dinner for two or a birthday dinner for 20. With its Provencal cuisine and extensive wine list, it’s a little touch of the South of France in the heart of NYC.
PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of The Harrison, Bottino and Paradou
For an exclusive directory of the best event spaces in New York from private rooms to roofdecks, visit our new site, The Venue Pages.
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