It’s been a minute since I’ve shared anything on New York and as I mentioned here there’s just something so special about this time of the year.

More than any other time of the year we keep things relatively spontaneous – I love leaving work and going to meet MG in front of our building, only to answer the question “where to?”.

We have a handful of spots that we love down here and will change it up based on what we’re in the mood for–if it’s a dirty martini night we will end up at Mark Joseph steakhouse for ‘tinis and appetizers or if it’s a rose and oysters kind of night we’ll go to our favorite spot in the Seaport Dorlan’s Tavern. There are a handful of other great spots with outdoor seating to enjoy this gorgeous time of year. Here are a few of our other faves!

1. The Trading Post

We love this spot during the winter because of its cozy vibe, but with outdoor seating and the location right by the water it’s a spring and summer staple for us as well. The mussels are a favorite and they just added a crab squid ink spaghetti that I’ll be going back for!

2. Grand Banks

When we lived in SoHo we used to walk to the West Side Highway on weeknights–sometimes just for a little evening stroll, but other times to grab a glass of wine on the water. While I probably prefer City Vineyard now because it’s bigger, Grand Banks has a summer vibe that you can’t deny.

3. P.J. Clarke’s on the Hudson

If you’ve never been over to the area behind Brookfield Place you’re in for a treat – P.J. Clarke’s and 3 other restaurants have outdoor seating along with a massive area where you can grab things from Hudson Eats and just sit outside. We love grabbing a burger and a glass of wine and watching the boats on the Hudson at sunset (and yes all of that is as magical as it sounds).

4. Industry Kitchen

One of our favorite spots for drinks on the water with beautiful views of Brooklyn is Industry Kitchen. They have a massive bar and outdoor seating and it’s easy to get to if you’re coming over the Brooklyn Bridge or if you live/work downtown. It’s also pretty close to a pier with a second level and amazing views of the city for a walk after dinner or drinks.

5. The Paris Cafe

While we’re all for new restaurants and things that pop-up we tend to gravitate towards places with character and that have been around for a while. This is true of Paris Cafe. The outdoor seating and nostalgia of old New York really get us. The food is great and you’re on the East River so you can finish the night with a walk along the water.

Summer is so close! I can’t wait for a few trips we have coming up and Memorial Day, which is around the corner. What are you most excited for now that the weather is beautiful?

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Photos by Carter Fish