Dining al fresco in New York City has always had a certain magic to it. For years, outdoor setups were basically a bonus feature; some places simply had them, while others didn’t. There were sidewalk setups—perfect for doing some prime people-watching while enjoying your meal—and backyard oases, for when you wanted to slip away and hide among the trees for a while. Of course, you’d have to contend with the occasional interruption in your open-air fantasy: a scurry in the bushes, an idling garbage truck. It’s all part of the scenery.
Now, we’re living in a world of outdoor dining forever shaped by the pandemic, when restaurants built roadway sheds and other temporary set-ups to welcome diners safely amid lockdowns. Turns out people love to have a Caesar salad and French fries among the hum of activity, and in 2023, the city made outdoor dining permanent and seasonal. Lucky for lovers of the great (urban) outdoors, the season has now begun: From April 1 through November 29, more restaurants will offer outdoor seating in roadway structures.
In celebration of the warmer weather coming our way, we’ve updated our guide to the Vogue staff’s favorite outdoor dining spots in the city. From Fort Greene wine bars to the best patio for a proper pint of Guinness, check out all our picks below.
A note to the reader: This guide is continuously updated, and we do our best to make sure it is as current as possible. However, when in doubt, please check the restaurant’s website for the latest information.
I was introduced to Aurora through its outdoor space, and it certainly left a lasting impression. Not only is the space beautifully lined with florals, but the enclosed patio is big enough to accommodate a larger group—a must-have for celebratory dinners. Not to mention, the Italian menu is tasty with a great assortment of wines and cocktails. —Kiana Murden, shopping beauty editor
Bar Pitti is perhaps the original outdoor dining hotspot in New York City—since the 1990s, New Yorkers have flocked to the cash-only Italian spot’s sidewalk for a bottle of wine and their pasta of choice off the specials menu. 30 years later, it’s still happening. —Elise Taylor, former senior living writer
I would love to gatekeep this place because Bar Americano is already insanely packed on the weekends by Greenpoint locals, but I need to share it because their drinks are some of the best I have ever had. (The Appletini in particular is my favorite.) I would also suggest ordering the octopus and chicken Milanese. Dessert is also a must—especially the pistachio semifreddo. —Irene Kim, production and editorial associate
A mere stone’s throw from my front doorstep, Beco offers laid-back outdoor seating, delicious Brazilian cocktails, and a diverse (but not oversaturated!) all-day menu. The scene is about as varied as it gets: from tiny babies and large dogs to first dates and solo diners—everyone is welcome. The weekend is best for peak people-watching as you get to enjoy a complimentary side of live music with your stares. In all honesty, none of the above matters… as once you’ve enjoyed your first bite of the dulce de leche empanada, the rest of the world fades away. —Jasmine Contomichalos, director, consumer revenue, Vogue 100
Identifying the best Italian food in New York is not an easy task—the competition is high. While Via Carota is much talked about for its salad, I would argue that an even better one can be found at Altro Paradiso. Made of shaved fennel and Castelvetrano olives, it's about as good as it gets—but it's just one of many stand-out entrees you'll find. Come dessert, the panna cotta is unmissable. —Lilah Ramzi, contributing editor
Either pre or post Lincoln Center—or in my case after my son’s forest camp after-school program—Fiorello’s is a dream dinner date, especially when you can sit on the patio and look across to the Lincoln Center fountain, not to mention there is often a gentleman playing trumpet nearby, sharing the particularly wide sidewalk, which is a lovely soundtrack. Order the chicken paillard, a Margherita pizza, and a mixed plate from the antipasto bar, and I dare you to ask for a better NYC experience! —Chloe Malle, head of editorial content, American Vogue
Cafe Luxembourg is a neighborhood favorite of mine. A tuna burger, fries, and a cold glass of Sancerre on a summer evening sitting on the covered sidewalk on West 70th Street is the ur-U.W.S. moment I dream of! —C.M.
Rain, hail, or shine: this covered outdoor conservatory is always a good idea. The first place that comes to mind for great Moroccan cuisine in New York, both locations are still operated by the same family who opened the original East Village doors in the early ‘80s. Go with a group and ball out with mezze, tagines, and enough couscous to feed a small army; washed down with a Turkish coffee espresso martini. It gets bonus points because the final check never causes a fright (or fight) either. —Freya Drohan, parties editor
Chez Ma Tante in Greenpoint is leaning into its French je ne sais quoi with seasonal, walk-in-only sidewalk seating. I’ll either be ordering their perfectly crisp, buttery pancakes for brunch or enjoying a dirty martini with chips and aioli, accompanied by immaculate people-watching and an ever-evolving wine list. This is the perfect corner for an impromptu al fresco dining moment with friends, family, or a date. —Taylor Lashley, senior manager, social media
A new and fast favorite of mine is Colonia Verde in Fort Greene. The backyard serves as the best escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Don’t fret if you’re unable to snag a table in the backyard—the greenhouse emulates the same outdoor vibes! Writer’s note: for an optimal outdoor dining experience, order the La Picosa. –Molly Barstein, associate manager, audience development
It’s admittedly difficult to snag a sidewalk table at Corner Bar—the Ignacio Mattos restaurant at Nine Orchard is still one of the most sought-after reservations in town—but it’s worth every effort, thanks to the excellent burger and even more excellent people-watching. —E.T.
Dante serves the best cocktails in the city, America, and the world. I’m not grandstanding here—in 2019, it was officially crowned as the best bar in the world. Their West Village location, with its classic bistro tables and claw-footed glass booths, feels more like something you’d find on the boulevards of Paris rather than the streets of New York. Make sure to try the Champagne Ramos—a cocktail made with the unusual, yet delicious, ingredient of burrata water. —E.T.
Where else can you sip gin martinis under a disco ball? Be sure to get the uni pasta and multiple orders of the Addictive Cabbage (the name really says it all). —Madeline Fass, market editor
I’ve long loved E.A.T.—if memory serves, my dad and I went directly there for matzo ball soup after I had my braces taken off—and throughout the last year, it’s remained my go-to spot for casual weekend lunches with friends. Its outdoor dining set-up isn’t anything fancy, but it totally works, which pretty perfectly matches the vibe there in general. Order the cucumber and goat cheese on ficelle. —Marley Marius, features editor
I love wrapping up an afternoon in SoHo with a plate of French fries and a glass of wine at one of Fanelli’s outdoor tables. It’s the perfect place to watch the world go by and feel like a visitor in your own city.” —Mai Morsch, fashion editor
I Sodi’s West Village patio.
Photo: Ian GittlerIn Ireland, the best pubs are defined by their “beer gardens” (exactly as it sounds on the tin.) The closest thing I’ve found in New York is Iona’s backyard: a no-frills sun-trap with picnic benches and patio umbrellas. “Dining” is a stretch, but if you’re looking for a little oasis where you can nurse a pint of Guinness over real potato chips (crisps!) and maybe a mini shepherd’s pie if you’re lucky, you can’t beat it. —F.D.
When I Sodi moved to Grove Street in the West Village, I was thrilled for two reasons. The first: that’s my block. Two: their new location has the most charming patio in the back. Mark my words … more than one couple will fall in love under their tea lights and over a bowl of cacio e pepe. —E.T.
I’m never not in the mood to sit outside at Kiki’s. It’s perfect for a late weekend lunch or early dinner after work. The Greek fare is reliably delicious, and it’s easy to spend hours here without even realizing. —Mai Morsch
If you stroll into the Ladurée in SoHo on West Broadway and walk straight through, it opens up to a really peaceful garden terrace with plenty of fresh air. For a chill coffee meeting or cute lunch, it’s that rare New York space that’s both outdoors and completely enclosed from the street’s fragrant mysteries. —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at large
After opening in 2022, Laser Wolf quickly became one of the hottest tables in town. With unparalleled views of Manhattan's skyline in a vibrant, open-air atmosphere, this Israeli eatery knows exactly how to serve up an exceptional dining experience. If you can manage to secure a spot on this rooftop, you won’t be disappointed. —Eliseé Browchuk, former head of events and marketing, experiences
La Mercerie in SoHo.
Photo: By Andrea GentlIt's little surprise that La Mercerie—the onsite brasserie of interiors firm Roman and Williams’ concept shop The Guild—is well-designed. Their outdoor dining ‘patio’ stretches a near cobblestone-paved city block, which has been festooned with string lights, greenery, and umbrellas. Order the boeuf bourguignon and their take on a gâteau Basque and you'll feel transported to France and miles away from Canal Street—which, if we’re really being precise, is just one block away. —L.R.
And if the pretense of the outdoors is all you need, head to the vaulted atrium at the back of La Lanterna di Vittorio. It’s a spirited space, filled with festive decor and good lighting (day or night)—perfect for an afternoon dessert with an espresso martini. Or take after this alley cat and go for one of their many lasagnas. —John Mok, senior production manager
I acknowledge that New York has no shortage of natural wine bars. Yet there's something special about Le Dive, a new restaurant that embodies the ambiance of a bar-a-vin meets French tabac. Perhaps it’s the bistro small plates menu, which includes Niçoise salad, charcuterie, cheese, pâté, and tinned fish. Perhaps it’s the interiors, dotted with vintage items sourced from Parisian flea markets. Or perhaps it's the wide open windows and wraparound sidewalk seating that sprawls out across Dimes Square. Order a glass of wine and indulge in café society—if only for a night. —E.T.
When I moved to Williamsburg from Chelsea two years ago, I was on a mission to establish myself as a regular at a nearby restaurant. Thankfully, my roommate and I discovered Lighthouse, which is a short walk from our apartment. On one of our first nights in the neighborhood, we perched at the bar and ordered glasses of orange wine and a side of fries, of course, and made friends with the bartender. Though the vibes inside are great, the real magic is at one of the tables outside on a warm spring or summer evening. I’m already dreaming of the forthcoming happy hours that will be had there this year. — Kylee McGuigan, associate production manager
Summer time in Nolita is always the best, and after a long day of shopping or spending time at Elizabeth Street Garden, the best place to wind down is with some Thai food at Lovely Day. During the summer, they usually take up outdoor dining across most of Elizabeth Street so there’s almost always a chance that you have little to no wait time even without a reservation. As for food recs, I feel like there’s nothing better on their menu than their hobo noodles—and I recommend getting that with an Asahi beer! — I.K.
I recently spent one of this year’s first spring evenings enjoying aguachile verde and a perfect, not-too-sweet margarita with friends in the backyard of Mariscos El Submarino in Clinton Hill. Aside from the bright, excellent Mexican seafood on offer at this location (and multiple other locations throughout the city), the large patio deserves a shoutout for truly transporting us. The space was bustling with people and a festive spirit—a piñata serves as a makeshift chandelier hanging from the tent overhead—making it the perfect place to spend a spring or summer evening. —Anna Grace Lee, lifestyle writer
Misipasta is another hot spot from Missy Robbins and Sean Feeney, the masterminds behind Lilia and Misi. The duo’s sister establishment is a restaurant, pasta shop, and specialty grocery store in the heart of Williamsburg. The menu is frequently changing, but you can always expect at least one pasta dish and an assortment of light bites that will keep you coming back. The best part? Once you step into the shop’s backyard and have your first sip of a spritz, you’d never know that you’re not dining in a garden in the heart of Italy. —T.L.
This buzzy Mediterranean spot is the perfect place to go after a day of lounging in Fort Greene Park. Enjoy the whipped ricotta or sweet potato hummus while you sip on a cocktail (I recommend the Dead Sea) and take in the fragrant open kitchen. The best part—Miss Ada’s covered backyard is open all year long, so come rain or shine! —Hannah Jackson, fashion writer
I love catching an outdoor table at Morandi whenever I am in the West Village. Why? There have been multiple times when I have been sitting outside, enjoying some pasta, and caught glimpses of celebrities walking by—it’s the best people-watching restaurant! Plus, the martinis and Aperol spritzes are fab. —Christian Allaire
I've always had a soft spot for The Odeon—especially during the warmer months, where their frisée salad can be enjoyed under grey-and-white striped awnings on a sunny West Broadway sidewalk. An added bonus? Their outdoor ice cream cart. Treat yourself to a scoop before walking home. —E.T.
Allison Arevalo’s magical establishment started out as a place to buy pasta during early peak COVID, transformed itself into a godsend of a cafe that’s become an instant neighborhood fixture for amazing made-from-scratch pasta and ice cream, and has just added a second, larger, light-filled location down the street with more pastas, more sauces, more outdoor tables—and a heavenly burrata surrounded by balsamic roasted cherry tomatoes. Best vibes of any establishment I’ve entered in recent memory. —Corey Seymour, senior editor
The sidewalk seating at Pastis is the perfect place to people-watch (both those walking by, and those sitting alongside you: the Meatpacking restaurant is known to draw a celebrity crowd). Do so with the steak frites. —E.T.
My childhood friends spent over two years bringing this formerly derelict corner of West 4th and Jones back to life, and their resulting neighborhood bar has totally rejuvenated the street. Snag an outdoor table early—prime real estate for people watching the footfall between Washington Square Park and Christopher Street Park—and order the spice bag. Making the unhurried and relaxed weekend afternoon vibes even more immaculate, the DJ will usually be positioned right by the window, too. —F.D.
Everyone who lives in the Downtown Brooklyn area knows of Rhodora, which is why it’s always jam-packed on the weekends. I recommend going on a nice weekday evening—that way you are guaranteed a spot to sit outside. It’s also the best place to watch the sunset on those warm summer evenings. There’s nothing better than a glass of natural wine and small plates to share with friends. Last summer, they had a great hot dog on the menu which I’m hoping comes back this year too! —I.K.
Photo: Courtesy of Sant Ambroeus
Sitting outside of Sant Ambroeus never disappoints—plus, there’s a good mix of people I want to see even if I’m just walking by, like running into Vogue stylist Max Ortega on my way to karaoke. Or in the West Village and steps away from Carrie Bradshaw’s SATC stoop, spotting Glenn Close dining with friends and eventually taking her seat. Both locations are historically my favorite haunts for meetings and more, like a Louis Vuitton Beauty lunch at the SoHo location, where I ordered my usual iced matcha—and the goblet’s aesthetic alone influenced more than one VIP to join me. —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at large
I love the back garden at Saraghina. I always feel like I could be out of town in some rustic village and not basically in the middle of Brooklyn. It’s especially charming at night with all the little lights on. As far as the menu goes, it’s difficult to pick favorites between the pizzas since they’re all pretty delicious. I’m a bit of a purist, so I tend to order the Bufala—it comes simply with Buffalo mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and basil. The truffle cacio e pepe pasta is great too. —Chioma Nnadi, head of editorial content, British Vogue
The title says it all. Truly a secret garden with amazing food. When I first went, I didn’t know it was vegan, and I had a curry chicken sandwich. Thought it was real the whole time. —Liana Satenstein, Vogue contributor
Photo: Getty Images
You know that picture-perfect, West Village corner that you always see in the movies and TV shows set in New York City? Well that corner exists and it’s the intersection of West 11th and 4th street where Tartine sits. I personally venture to Tartine regardless of the weather, but there is something extra magical about sitting outside while you devour their famous chicken paillard and French fries. Their outdoor dining wraps around the exterior of the restaurant and spills out onto the pavement, offering you multiple optimal angles in which to people-watch. It’s first come first serve so there may be a small wait, but don’t fear, the restaurant is BYOB (you can also buy a drink if you forget to bring your own!) so you can perch on a stoop and sip on your wine while you wait for your perfect outdoor table. —Florence O’Connor, content manager
Classic Veselka! 24 hours of fun and starch. So nice in the summer… —L.S.
I love to boop a dog, but if, like me, you’re an urban house cat type who thrives on fire escapes and tropically dressed courtyards, then the rear patio at Wayla is one to check out. It’s the perfect Lower East Side hideaway for exquisite Thai dishes and creative cocktails. —J.M.
At the corner of the bustling Coney Island Ave and sedate Turner Place in the Prospect Park South neighborhood in Brooklyn is one of the best Austrian restaurants in the city—a place that serves a soft pretzel so pillowy and salty that it will make you sad you ever sunk your teeth into a rubbery street vendor version. Werkstatt is a neighborhood restaurant with a heart and soul, with food that far transcends its humble setting. —Chloe Schama, senior editor
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