Where To Find the Most Instagrammable NYC Outdoor Dining Downtown
New York City has approved 9700 restaurants for outdoor dining permits. And I am so amused with and grateful for all the creative NYC outdoor dining options that have taken over the streets and sidewalks! Are you? Because we’re all navigating the many options for the first time, I thought it would be helpful to round-up the best, most Instagramable outdoor dining options. For this post, I’ll concentrate on the downtown area south of 14th Street since that’s what I’m most familiar with. Read on and share this with someone who would enjoy! And stay tuned by subscribing to the blog since I’ll continue to add on on a weekly basis!!
For epic Brooklyn and Brooklyn Bridge views plus the cutest socially distanced greens, check out this brand new Pier 17 spot. Perfect for lounging while watching the sunset, they offer both food and rentable games. Each 14’x14′ private green space comes with an umbrella, Yeti cooler, USB charging port and lounge chairs.
You bring the fun. Open daily 11am-11pm.
89 South Street
This outdoor dining spot is perfect for all weather days being that it is completely covered. We actually had lunch during a rainstorm here and were still able to enjoy getting out of the house and people watching.
They’re known for their farm fresh, healthy CA foods but I will forever remember them for their decadent chocolate cake. Salivating now just thinking about it!!
89 South Street
I’m definitely returning to this Financial district newbie for their truffled gnocchi ‘cuz it was that good. But there is so much goodness on their Southern Italian menu that would bring anyone back..not to mention the city views and these cute greenhouse type social distancing spots!
100 Broad St.
Cipriani boasts a 2nd floor – level, balcony that overlooks the famed Wall Street. We recently celebrated our wedding anniversary there (it’s the perfect fancy place to celebrate an occasion). And we enjoyed the music, view and safe social distancing measures.
55 Wall Street
Relatively new to the scene, this Jean-Georges, celebrity chef restaurant is right on the water in South Street Seaport and is another special occasion spot given the higher prices and fabulous view.
89 South Street
Here you can feast on French and “new NY” food with a view of the water, spy the statue of Liberty and take a post-dinner stroll through an area of Manhattan that feels more like a resort town than a bustling city. This neighborhood is my absolute, favorite sunset watching area in NY and it’s a must-see even if you don’t dine here, there are tons of restaurant options outdoors.
255 Liberty Street
This 24,000 sq. ft palm-tree filled lush outdoor space will whisk you away to Tulum, MX.
Featured in Vogue Magazine as a must-hit hot spot, you’ll love the feeling of traveling without the ticket. And their fully automated ordering system will comfort any covid19 scare.
76 Varick Street (Just north of Canal)
If you’re into farm-to table cuisine, you’ll really appreciate this upscale New American restaurant at the Nomo hotel. Dining al fresco will feel extra New York when surrounded by cool street art and while being canopied by twinkling lights. They’re now open 8am -10apm. Make sure to grab a cocktails while there! Follow me on Tiktok to see the full tour @stylishlystella!
9 Crosby Street
Want city and Hudson River views? Check out City Vineyard and make sure to check ahead to see when they seat on the upper deck (lower deck currently has semi-obstructed views due to ground-level construction). When we last visited, only Thursday -Sunday during set hours were when the rooftop level opened but the wait staff explained that that may change. Wine on tap, sunset views, and New American cuisine! Plus it’s right next door to Pier 25’s massive playground – perfect for kids to stop by before/after!
233 West Street
Only open for dinner now, this celebrity chef led outdoor dining sensation is truly a NY scene. Enjoy alfresco dining while admiring the intricate architecture of the Beekman hotel and surrounding buildings. And savor each masterful bite from Tom Colicchio.
9 Crosby Street
Did you see anything you liked and now need to add to your bucket list? Is there anything you think I should add as I update this post? Please tell me in the comments below. And please SHARE this post with someone you’d love to dine outdoors with! Remember, October 31 is when NY is scheduled to end its outdoor dining program so there’s still some time to check these places out! And TODAY (Sept 30th) is when indoor dining re-opens!
To check out our review of New York’s pink restaurant click here.
To see my curated list of New York’s most Instagram-able restaurants, click here.
Full disclosure, we are sometimes hosted in exchange for reviews.
