With the sun shining and the days growing longer, there’s no better way to spend this jubilant time in the city than dining outdoors. Whether you’re looking to sip rosé in a courtyard garden or indulge in some oysters by the water, this list curated by the concierge team at Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown covers the top places to eat and drink outside.
Grand Banks
Docked (yes, docked) on Pier 25 in Tribeca, this restaurant is located on a historic wooden schooner modeled after the oyster barges found on the waterfront in the 19th century. Featuring a menu of ingredient-driven plates by acclaimed chef, Kerry Heffernan, the Grand Banks is a must-try for anyone who appreciates fresh seafood. Their oysters are gathered sustainably from the East & West Coast in partnership with the non-profit Maritime Foundation, while their refreshing signature cocktails are perfect to enjoy as you sit under sunny-yellow and white awnings. If you’ve been needing a seaside retreat, a trip to Grand Banks might be all you need. Grand Banks is located at Park, Pier 25 Hudson River, New York, NY 10013
Palma
For an outdoor-dining experience that captures the romance of Coastal Italy, Palma’s courtyard garden is a breath of fresh air. Founded by Palma D’orazio–a first-generation Brooklyn Italian, and her husband Pierre–a native Parisian who spent his summers along the Italian border, the restaurant combines both their love of hospitality and incredible food. Guests are welcomed as friends and treated to a menu of fresh Italian cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. And with an intimate outdoor-dining space that seems pulled from Positano, you’ll have all you need to enjoy summer in full bloom. Palma is located at 28 Cornelia St, New York, NY 10014
The Fulton
Looking to escape the bustle of the city on a stunning, shady terrace? The Fulton, a restaurant by globally renowned Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, offers diners everything from world-class seafood to breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge in an upscale atmosphere. Located on the northeast corner of Pier 17, this restaurant is ideal for a romantic evening of dining al-fresco, or taking in the sights of the city over brunch. Whether you choose to stop in for a seasonally inspired cocktail, or browse their impressive selection of caviar, a trip to the Fulton is sure to make for a memorable experience. The Fulton is located at 89 South St, New York, NY 10038
La Mercerie
Even if you’re in New York City as a getaway, visiting the La Mercerie patio can feel like a vacation on its own. Located in Soho, this French cafe specializes in flawless Provencal fare using peak-fresh ingredients in a lush space that’s perfect for sun-soaked afternoons. Choose from decadent appetizers like Torchon de Foie Gras, or sip an Aperol Spritz as you people watch after a day of shopping. If you’re looking for a delicious start to your day, their Le Joli menu boasts fresh, warm pastries like Pain au Chocolat and traditional crépes on Saturday and Sunday mornings. An insider tip; if you fall in love with any of the handmade dishes your meal is served on, you can purchase it to keep. La Mercerie is located at 53 Howard St, New York, NY 10013
Bobo
Located in a 1930s West Village townhouse, the outdoor garden at Bobo makes you feel as if you were transported to your own French summer home. Known for its traditional, country-style cuisine and dinner-party atmosphere; food is inspired by nature and family in a tasteful, relaxed setting. Rustic meals like Coq au Vin and Parisian Gnocchi pair seamlessly with any of the expertly crafted cocktails, though starting a meal with champagne is highly recommended. Through the enchanting greenery, hospitality and aromatic French cuisine, Bobo’s garden dining space delivers a feeling of fantasy with any visit. Bobo is located at 181 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
