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If the weather is right, eating outside in New York City is something special. You can take in the afternoon at your own pace and pull up a front-row seat to observing one of the most lively cities in the world.

Take advantage of restaurants set on the Hudson River, in Central Park, or streetside on the Upper West Side. Here’s a look at the best options in Manhattan’s most charming neighborhood.

Pier i Cafe on the Hudson River

This counter-service cafe is open seasonally in Riverside Park South and offers wide-open views of New Jersey and the Hudson River. It’s a great option for drinks and simple fare. Pier i Cafe is family-friendly and its easy ordering system makes it ideal for groups. Open daily from 11:30 am to midnight, May through October. Located at W. 70th Street in Riverside Park South

Tavern on the Green in Central Park

This iconic restaurant across from Sheep’s Meadow in Central Park was originally built to house sheep in the 1880s, but it has served as a restaurant for over 80 years. If it looks familiar, that might be because the building has appeared in numerous films over the years, such as Ghostbusters and Crimes and Misdemeanors. Visit and ask for a seat outside – the picturesque garden atmosphere makes you feel worlds away from Manhattan. Serves American fare. Open Monday through Friday for lunch 11am to 4pm, dinner 5pm to 11pm. Open Saturday and Sunday serving brunch 9am to 4pm, dinner 5pm to 11pm. Located at 67th St. and West Central Park 

Bustan on the patio

Bustan is an eclectic restaurant on the Upper West Side that offers a fusion of contemporary pan-Mediterranean cuisine. It’s delicious, ambitious, and inventive, and the back patio manages to feel both open and cozy at the same time. Open Sunday through Thursday from 5pm to 10pm and Friday and Saturday from 5pm to 11pm. Located at 487 Amsterdam Ave. and W. 84th St

Cibo e Vino for streetside dining

Looking for a quaint lunch place with cozy outdoor seating? Cibo e Vino is a lovely option on the Upper West Side. The casual eatery serves handmade pastas and other traditional fare inspired by Northern Italy and the Mediterranean. Open Monday through Friday at 11 am, Saturdays and Sundays at 10 am. Located at 2418 Broadway and W. 89th St.

Boat Basin on the Marina

This scenic spot is located just north of Pier i Cafe within the historic, open-air 79th Street Boat Basin. It’s casual and great for a quick bite and drinks. Open daily with hours that depend on weather conditions. Call ahead at (212) 496-5542. Located at 79th Street and Riverside Park

If you’re interested in outdoor drinks and light fare on the Upper West Side, swing by the Beacon Bar, located right next to the Beacon Theatre. The sidewalk café is a perfect spot to park it in the summer months for drinks and an appetizer.

Where to Book on the Upper West Side

The historic Hotel Beacon is in the heart of Manhattan's Upper West Side neighborhood and offers apartment-style rooms and two-bedroom suites - absolutely ideal for families. Stretch out, relax, and base yourself in a hub of culture and activity. Check out special rates on our website.