Summer in New York brings the magical opportunity to dine under open skies, surrounded by the city’s energy. From hidden garden patios to glamorous rooftops with skyline views, outdoor dining spots transform meals into unforgettable experiences. These beloved restaurants combine amazing food with fresh air, creating the perfect escape from cramped apartments and busy streets.
1. Wayla’s Secret Garden Oasis
Hidden below street level on the Lower East Side, Wayla feels like stumbling upon a secret Thailand retreat. Vintage wicker chairs and soft-glowing lanterns create an atmosphere that Yelp reviewers consistently describe as “magical.”
The Thai menu dazzles with vibrant papaya salads, rich curries, and daily rotating specials that showcase seasonal ingredients. Each bite tastes somehow better in this lush backyard setting.
Reserve well ahead—this basement-level gem with its tranquil garden ranks among Resy’s most sought-after outdoor tables in Manhattan.
2. Café Spaghetti’s Romantic Brooklyn Pergola
Carroll Gardens locals guard reservations at this expansive backyard paradise like precious treasures. Beneath a sturdy pergola draped with greenery, couples and friends gather for leisurely Italian feasts that feel transported from the Mediterranean coast.
Handmade pastas arrive steaming at wooden tables, while the signature Amaro Coladas offer a refreshing twist on classic cocktails. The “spiedini alla Romana”—crispy bread sandwiching melted mozzarella—has developed a cult following.
When evening lights twinkle overhead, there’s no denying why Yelp reviewers consistently rank this among NYC’s most romantic outdoor tables.
3. Ammazzacaffè’s Brick-Framed Williamsburg Patio
Warm brick walls embrace diners at this East Williamsburg gem, creating a cozy outdoor sanctuary that feels worlds away from city chaos. The patio buzzes with conversation as plates of housemade pasta—especially the sunshine-bright rigatoni al limone—make their way to eager tables.
True to its name (which translates to “coffee killer”), the restaurant serves mini-martinis designed to be enjoyed after espresso. These potent sippers have become the patio’s signature indulgence.
Since opening, Ammazzacaffè has maintained impressive 4.5+ star ratings on Yelp, with Resy reviewers particularly praising the magical atmosphere of the brick-enclosed outdoor space.
4. Sawa’s Leafy Park Slope Retreat
String lights crisscross overhead while climbing vines create natural walls at this Lebanese sanctuary tucked behind Park Slope’s bustling streets. The backyard feels like dining in someone’s cherished garden—intimate yet wonderfully social.
Plates arrive bursting with color: vibrant hummus topped with tender wagyu beef cheeks, grilled halloumi nestled among gem lettuce, and freshly baked flatbread still warm from the oven. The grilled octopus, perfectly charred yet tender, pairs beautifully with the gentle evening breeze.
Brooklyn locals speak in hushed tones about this garden, hoping to keep it somewhat secret despite Resy declaring it among the borough’s loveliest outdoor dining experiences.
5. Popina NYC’s Vine-Covered Cobble Hill Haven
Rain or shine, Popina’s covered backyard patio welcomes diners with its iconic coziness. Leafy vines climb toward the plastic roof, creating a greenhouse effect that keeps the space warm on cooler evenings and pleasantly shaded during summer afternoons.
The menu bridges Italian tradition with Southern American comfort—pasta dishes shine alongside the legendary hot chicken Milanese that brings heat-seekers from across boroughs. Weekday happy hours transform the garden into a neighborhood living room where locals gather over discounted spritzes.
Fully accessible and open by early May, this Cobble Hill favorite consistently earns enthusiastic praise from both Resy guides and Yelp reviewers seeking laid-back outdoor charm.
6. Miss Ada’s Tree-Sheltered Fort Greene Escape
Nestled behind Fort Greene’s classic brownstones stands Miss Ada’s Mediterranean garden—a tranquil outdoor retreat that feels miles from urban chaos. Mature trees create natural shade while strings of lights add evening magic to this Israeli-inspired haven.
The open-air kitchen sends out aromatic waves as brick-fire chicken sizzles and fresh labneh awaits warm, just-baked pita. Golden halloumi skewers and carefully selected natural wines complete the sensory experience that makes this patio special.
Early evening is prime time according to Resy recommendations, when slanting sunlight filters through leaves and bathes dining tables in dappled gold. The garden’s peaceful ambiance has earned it countless mentions in reviews as Fort Greene’s ideal dining retreat.
7. The Bar Room at The Modern’s MoMA Sculpture Terrace
Art appreciation extends seamlessly to the plate at this 41-seat terrace overlooking MoMA’s famed sculpture garden. The contrast couldn’t be more striking—bustling Midtown just steps away, yet here reigns absolute tranquility among masterpieces of modern art.
The menu matches its artistic surroundings with visual stunners like caviar-topped hot dogs and delicate white asparagus soup. Spring garlic rigatoni arrives fragrant and perfectly al dente, while marinated octopus showcases the kitchen’s technical prowess.
The crisp air and unparalleled setting have earned this space a permanent spot in Resy’s collection of serene outdoor dining experiences—a true oasis amid Manhattan’s concrete landscape.
8. Gilligan’s Tropical SoHo Courtyard
Step behind 99 Greene Street and suddenly Manhattan vanishes, replaced by a lush tropical paradise that would feel at home in Miami or Tulum. Towering palm trees sway above cabanas where fashionable New Yorkers escape the concrete jungle from May through September.
The seasonal menu embraces summer vibes with lobster rolls, crisp pizzas, and the Instagram-famous frozen watermelon margaritas served in hollowed fruit. Pink umbrellas and rattan furniture complete the vacation aesthetic that has made this spot a warm-weather institution.
Reopening May 1st each year creates a frenzy of reservation attempts, as this courtyard consistently ranks among the most sought-after seasonal outdoor experiences on both Resy and Yelp.
9. Fairweather’s Secret Chelsea Courtyard
Discovering Fairweather feels like stumbling upon a private garden party. Hidden behind a parked double-decker bus at The High Line Hotel, this tree-shaded courtyard offers a respite that even longtime Chelsea residents might not know exists.
From the team behind Grand Banks comes this greenery-filled charm spot specializing in refreshing spritzes and elevated small bites. Caviar-topped potato chips and thoughtfully selected tinned fish plates attract an in-the-know crowd seeking tranquility with their cocktails.
Frequently described as a “sunny secret” in reviews, Fairweather maintains its hidden gem status despite Resy’s enthusiastic recommendations. The dappled sunlight through mature trees creates natural spotlight effects on beautifully presented drinks.
10. Cookshop’s Bustling 10th Avenue Sidewalk Scene
A Chelsea institution since opening, Cookshop’s heated sidewalk patio offers front-row seats to one of Manhattan’s most entertaining thoroughfares. Tree-lined cafe tables create European vibes along 10th Avenue, where people-watching becomes an unofficial menu item.
The kitchen’s commitment to seasonal, farmer-sourced American fare means the menu evolves constantly. Morning pastries give way to market-fresh lunches and evening plates that showcase whatever local growers harvested that day.
Resy repeatedly highlights this spot for its reliable excellence, while Yelp reviewers particularly praise the outdoor brunch experience. Even in cooler months, the heated sidewalk setup ensures comfortable al fresco dining year-round.
11. King’s Elegant SoHo Sidewalk Tables
The epitome of SoHo sidewalk glamour, King transforms ordinary curbside dining into an elegant affair. White tablecloths flutter in gentle breezes while attentive servers navigate between tables with the precision of dancers.
The menu changes daily, reflecting whatever inspired the chefs at morning markets. The famous panisse—crispy chickpea fritters—remains a constant favorite, alongside carefully selected wines that complement the seasonal European-inspired cuisine.
Couples frequently choose these tables for special occasions, earning King a reputation for romantic perfection. Its impressive 4.6 Resy rating mirrors the consistent 4+ stars from Yelp’s large reviewer base who praise both the food and the sophisticated outdoor atmosphere.
12. Laser Wolf Brooklyn’s Skyline Rooftop Experience
Perched atop the trendy Hoxton Hotel, Laser Wolf offers a dining experience that feels like floating above Williamsburg. The panoramic Manhattan skyline creates a dramatic backdrop for tables of friends sharing Israeli-style grilled meats and colorful salatim spreads.
Flames leap from open grills as skewers of perfectly seasoned meats cook to order. Small plates of vibrant vegetables, dips, and pickles cover tables family-style, encouraging communal dining that matches the convivial rooftop atmosphere.
Both Resy guides and local reviewers use phrases like “must-reserve” when describing this skyline spot. Sunset reservations become particularly coveted, when golden hour light bathes both the food and the spectacular city views.
13. Bar Blondeau’s Wythe Hotel Sunset Terrace
The rooftop terrace at Williamsburg’s Wythe Hotel has become legendary for its “Sunset Hour” specials—discounted cocktails and wines that draw locals and visitors alike to witness day turning to night over the East River. The Manhattan skyline glitters just across the water, creating a backdrop no interior designer could match.
From the team behind acclaimed Le Crocodile comes a European-inspired menu of sophisticated bites designed for sharing. Small plates arrive beautifully presented, competing with the views for attention.
Regularly featured in Resy’s rooftop roundups, Bar Blondeau earns high marks on Yelp particularly for combining reasonable prices with million-dollar views—a rare combination in New York’s elevated dining scene.
14. Grand Banks’ Historic Sailboat Oyster Bar
Dining aboard a reclaimed wooden sailboat docked at Tribeca’s Pier 25 creates memories impossible to replicate anywhere else in New York. This seasonal maritime treasure transforms golden hour on the Hudson into an experience that feels both quintessentially New York and completely transportive.
The menu focuses on sustainable seafood: freshly shucked oysters arranged on ice, perfect lobster rolls, and crisp martinis that taste somehow better with river breezes. Sunset views of the Hudson turn everyday happy hours into Instagram moments.
A true Resy classic that generates long queues from opening day through closing each season. Thousands of Yelp reviews consistently award 4.3–4.5 stars, confirming Grand Banks’ status as New York’s most beloved floating restaurant.
15. Celestine’s Bridge-View DUMBO Waterfront
The thundering presence of the Manhattan Bridge creates a dramatic canopy for Celestine’s waterfront tables. As trains rumble overhead and boats glide past on the East River, diners experience a quintessentially Brooklyn moment that no indoor restaurant could possibly match.
Mediterranean flavors dominate the menu—bucatini tossed with pistachio pesto and morels has developed a passionate following. The spritz flight offers refreshing variations on the classic aperitif, perfect for sipping while watching sunset paint the skyline gold.
Yelp reviewers can’t stop photographing their meals against this postcard-perfect backdrop. As the only Resy-listed restaurant positioned directly beneath the Manhattan Bridge, Celestine offers an outdoor dining experience that captures Brooklyn’s industrial-chic waterfront appeal.
