Where to enjoy outdoor dining in Westchester (2023)

Bartaco eats alfresco in Port Chester. Photo by Manny Vargas

Reserve a table under the clear sky and indulge in a generous portion of fresh air, with the sun or the stars.

Authors Cristiana Caruso and Michelle Gillian Larkin

It's that wonderful time of year when the sun takes on that warm, long-awaited golden hue, and foodies everywhere take to nature in search of their next, best meal in the sky. Whether it's a restaurant with a bouncy patio, terrace or porch, or a blossoming garden (book early if you've got a water view), all thoughts turn to sheltered evenings on sunny days and cold, windy nights. Our dining scene offers alfresco options as vast and dazzling as the sky (well, almost), and we've combed the county, both north and south, from the Sound Shore to the Rivertowns, and everything in between, to bring you this curated guide to eating, drinking and enjoying all that Westchester has to offeren plein air.

Sound coast

Dubrovnik

New Rochelle

Carved fountains, sculptures and stone benches almost under the "garden!" yet the scene is so calm and civilized with fine Croatian cuisine that provides a borrowed portal to the beloved and longed for homeland of the owner's youth. The soothing aromas of simply prepared fresh, whole grilled fish and succulent roasts waft through the space, adding to the gently tense feeling of being secretly transported to the European countryside.

bartaco

Luke Chester

The place to be and be seen at lunchtime (or, really, anytime), the nautical-themed deck at this classy waterfront taco haven is constantly packed and endlessly overflowing with upbeat, positive vibes. Dine on freshly made guac and chips, tacos and rice bowls at a sun-drenched table next to the placidly rippling Byram River, or settle into a shaded, blue-and-white outdoor couch where you won't feel out of place sipping a quick marg while munching on the signature ice cream cone.

Barley Beach House

Rye

Just imagine: Tiki drink in hand, toes in the sand, someone delivering snacks to your beach chair... in Rye. That's right folks; have a beach dining experience that doesn't require a plane ticket or a beach club membership. From frozen cocktails to lobster rolls, the good times keep on coming as live music from 107.1 The Peak plays all summer long. So now, when the group chat explodes with the question, “I want to drink near water; where are we going?" - you got the answer.

Restaurant Lunello

New Rochelle

Don't let the location of this hidden gem fool you: although Lunello is part of the Imperial Yacht Club, it is open to the public and non-members. Dine on the side of the yacht on an expansive menu of Italian comfort food and countless salads, extra crisp and light after a day on the water. (Waiver:Westchester Magazineis not responsible for financial decisions made over a bottle of wine while sitting next to dozens of yachts.)

Colony grill

Luke Chester

On a spacious elevated deck overlooking the River Byram, the only big decisions here are bottles or jugs and whether or not to top your classic pub pie (with that legendary cracker-thin crust) with the signature hot oil that has put this Irish pub on the rise. map. No matter how you slice it, the open-air setting is a safe bet on sunny days for those who enjoy light fare combined with lively surroundings and beautiful vistas.

Ocean Blue Prime

Rye

Located in the former La Panetière space, Ocean Blue Prime adds "rooftop dining" to its repertoire. Now offering bountiful fare, literally, diners can feel the sublime breezes off the Long Island Sound as they swan dive into dishes like fluke crudo, Prime, dry-aged steaks and lobster spaghetti. Save room for one of the award-winning wines in stock.

Restaurant Argana

Luke Chester

Westchester's only sultan tent—with retractable sides that offer a warm swaddling on colder nights—may have put this exquisite Moroccan spot on the map, but the simmering aromas of signature tagines and kebabs bouncing in the breeze prove just as enticing. For a full outdoor experience, the intimate stone patio and grassy garden (complete with roasting fireplace and hookah area) shine equally.

River towns

3 western

Ossining

The Hudson River couldn't be much closer here, given that you're free to get up from your seat in the sophisticated, sheltered patio and walk across the lawn right to it. Back at the table, your fellow diners will enjoy tall, easy-to-share plates of grilled shishito peppers and palate-pleasing sushi that pave the way for starters of branzino, filet mignon and risotto; it all complements - even competes - with unrivaled, almost touchable, water vistas.

Crescent moon

Dobbs Ferry

When you're looking for a hip venue with a knowledgeable clientele, this chic gathering spot will meet your every need. With tables so close to the water you'd think you were dining with white caps and views of New York, this trendy restaurant serves up top-notch pizza and has a 15-seat lounge and bar that fills up. Stop by for happy hour - Monday through Thursday, 3:00 p.m. to 6 p.m. and on Fridays from noon to 3 p.m. - with a young (and thirsty) crowd enjoying $2 oysters, $7 craft beer and $10 cocktails.

Tavern View of the bridge

Sleepy Hollow

The Bridge View Tavern does a lot of heavy lifting for the culinary scene: a classic pub offering plenty of beers on tap and everyone's favorite bar specials while the menu is full of top-notch and original dishes (don't overlook the elk burger). Head to the beer garden for an Oktoberfest atmosphere with just as much endless beer.

Harvest on the Hudson

Hastings-on-Hudson

In a sculpted miniature forest, caressed by cool Hudson River breezes and the heady scent of seasonal blooms, alfresco dining (or, simply, effortless snacking) happens on an unparalleled scale. Rabbit scarpariello is a staple of the Italian-dominant menu, which is peppered with satisfying pastas and brick-oven pizzas, cheese platters and a raw bar, all paired perfectly with a wide selection of wines and an inspired craft cocktail offering. (Secure a spot in the spectacular new greenhouse and let us know how it goes!)

Hudson Social

Dobbs Ferry

The cool waters of the Hudson River in sight won't induce illicit shivers reminiscent of the off-season when lounging by the fireplace on the cozy patio of this American bistro artfully located inside the historic Dobbs Ferry Metro-North train station. Create cocktails, sharable apps, salads, sandwiches and main meals from Baked Spaghetti with Zucchini and Slow Roasted Brisket delight and warmth from the inside out.

Goose nest

Tarrytown

It may seem like nothing could be more beautiful than the lush green lawns of the regal mansion on the Tarrytown House Estate — with twinkling rope lights and a lounge in front and patio, garden tables and a glowing fire pit out back — but the fairytale setting is definitely second to Chef Dale's fictional garden Taldea on classic Cantonese food. Must-have dishes from this highly creative, entertaining James Beard-nominated chef include dry-aged beef stickers, boneless Kung Pao chicken wings, and every incarnation of noodles and fried rice under the stars.

Sambal Thai and Malay

Irvington

Reminiscent of dining on the bow of a ship, the second-floor deck of this brick bastion of innovative Thai and Malay cuisine draws river watchers and sight-seekers like mermaids to sailors (but with a better ending). All the exotic and tantalizing favorites are covered here, from countless curries and noodle dishes (try the one called Drunkman) to house specialties such as roast penang duck, Thai coconut shells and jackfruit and potato curry.

Hudson Farmer & Fish

Sleepy Hollow

The bluestone courtyard extends straight onto the famous riverside promenade with stunning views from every point on the compass. The restaurant's northern farm display is the use of fresh seafood and produce that fuses a New England feel with a Westchester locale. Charred chili shrimp, whole roasted branzino and crab "BLT" are some of the options you can't miss when dining on some of the most innovative menus this side of the Hudson.

Harperova

Dobbs Ferry

The hidden patio behind Harper's is one of the district's not-so-secret secret spaces where locals gather most evenings for dinner in the shadow of one of the original walls of the Croton Aqueduct, surrounded by herbs, flowers and ivy. The casual comfort of a local bistro is charming, but if you want to bubble and sip on an extensive bar program, do yourself a favor and make a reservation.

Birdsall House

Peekskill

Rustic, welcoming and hearth-warmed, locals and regulars alike agree: A cold whiskey or a warm whiskey goes easy on the patio of this neighborhood gastropub known for its beer list and eclectic regionally sourced dishes. There's no doubt they'd recommend the simple delight of a burger that packs a punch with house-seasoned brisket on a puffy brioche bun, or a more unusual serving of juicy grilled lamb chops with tzatziki and tomato jam.

RiverMarket bar and kitchen

Tarrytown

A hot scene and a chilling view of the Hudson River illuminate the expansive patio at this Tarrytown hub where Best of Westchester award-winning handcrafted cocktails tango with wood-fired pizzas and an outstanding locally-sourced cheese board flourishing from Hudson Valley farms. Pasture-raised lamb meatballs are another easy choice and so easy to pop while watching the ships sail by.

Red hat on the river

Irvington

As the sun sets into the river, seasoned diners grab a prime spot on the patio next to this restored 1910 red brick factory hot spot and enjoy elegantly prepared modern American entrees (think fried scallops with fava beans) or Bistro's French-inspired fare from moules frites, steak frites (hangar or 16 oz dry aged NY strip) or the signature burger. (Just in case, there's also a view from almost every seat in the house.)

River Outpost Brewing

Peekskill

Beers and views are the order of the day at this Hudson hub. From pilsners to IPAs, all craft wines are brewed on site and offer seasonal specials. For snacks, grill plates and appetizers like popcorn shrimp and Irish nachos provide a good coating for the stomach (well drink, eat well, as the saying goes). Sip as the sun goes down and don't be surprised when that pint becomes a six-pack.

Sailhouse u Washington Irving Boat Clubu

Tarrytown

Dine on a piece of Tarrytown's maritime history. Started by villagers who wanted to boat for sport on the Hudson, the boat club turned into an ideal meeting place for alfresco evenings on the waterfront. Recently under new ownership, enjoy steak frites, Buffalo calamari and a delicious crab cake po'boy, with front row seats to a stunning summer sunset.

Apropos restoran i bar

Peekskill

Sit under the pergola for stunning views of the Hudson in the garden courtyard of this restored riverside abbey. Dining from a menu thoughtfully prepared with ingredients sourced from local farmers and purveyors (Barolo braised short ribs or local burrata, anyone?), Apropos offers an idyllic Hudson Valley day for the books.

South of 287

Osteria Steps

Bronxville

Tucked away from the village's log-clogged main thoroughfare and reminiscent of a quaint Tuscan enclave, this district boasts not only a terrace, but a secluded storybook courtyard where just a few small tables are tucked away amid climbing ivy, flowering plants and the melodious chirping of birds. Regionally inspired, fine Italian cuisine is accented with homemade pasta, local produce and imported specialty ingredients, and a touch of romance in the air that is hard to miss.

Via Forno

Scarsdale

In this modern interpretation of a traditional wood-fired pizzeria and wine bar, Sunday breakfast comes with live jazz on the terrace, which is also the perfect place for any other day (or night) of the week for crunchy food. , crispy pizza, an array of tummy-teasing pastas, flourishing pressed paninis and people watching along the ever-bustling Garth Road. Don't be shy about doing this while lifting a lightly blackened slice in one hand and a flipping glass in the other.

Na Lanterni

Yonkers

Have you ever seen the light canopy of the sawmill bistro and wondered: What is there? The answer is La Lanterna. But don't let the location near the park put you off: the wine garden is quite charming, with tall trees filled with light and comfortable iron tables. If you're dining outside on a balmy summer night, you'll be treated to a stunning fireplace, enhancing a coziness that's almost as good as a hug from Nonna.

Donjito

Mamaroneck

Surrounded by vibrant greenery and flowering plants, the outdoor option at Donjit feels like you're supposed to be drinking afternoon tea, not a tequila-filled watermelon (which we highly recommend, btw). This Latin fusion favorite not only dishes up delicious dishes, like lomo saltado and roasted pernil (and Latin sushi, if you're feeling adventurous), but tropically themed and well-crafted cocktails elevate the experience.

Gigante

Eastchester

For an alfresco meal like no other in Westchester (actually, no other), grab a table on the pool deck at Lake Isle Country Club, then get comfortable and watch the glowing fireplaces kill any chill while creating a chic atmosphere with every ripple of water. The menu is varied and made for tasting with small plates of grilled octopus and short rib arancini, but for stronger appetites there's a fabulous Wagyu burger and a range of prime steaks and chops.

Beginning

Ardsley

From the street, the red brick facade suggests a modern, urban den (which, no doubt, it is), but 'round the back, tall trees and lush greenery wrap around an intimate terrace lit by string lights, tiki torches and the heady aroma of homemade pasta, inventive but humble Italian appetizers (don't miss the butternut squash cutlet parmigiana) and freshly baked bomboloni that knock your socks off.

TacoRio Taco Bar

Yonkers

Mostly an open-air venue, with most of the restaurant's seating taking up the expansive patio that stretches along the River's edge, this is one of the best places in Westchester to lounge and munch.en plein airalong the Hudson. The atmosphere is cool and relaxed with a menu to match, dominated by tacos (order the slow-cooked birria and poached shrimp), salads and transcendent sights and sounds.

North of 287

Pizzeria Amore and Italian cuisine

Armonk

This Tuscan farmhouse-style eatery has been a fixture in the affluent countryside for four decades, and its spacious terrazzo is a sizzling alfresco spot for traditional pasta bowls, crusty house-made pizzas (the sauce, fresh mozz and dough are all made from scratch) and Italian the classics of spicy chicken skarto and zuppa de pesce. It's also a memorable meal indoors, but somehow it's even better under a vine-strewn pergola amid lush tomato plants, leafy greens and a babbling brook.

View

South Salem

Cozy vegetable gardens and lush landscaping separate the 50-person patio from the road in La Vista. The outdoor seating comes with the same old-world pomp as the inside, including tableside presentations, dessert carts and generous pours of homemade brandy. Under swaying Edison bulbs, dine on favorites like veal scaloppini and grilled octopus—and peek at the fruit on your plate, because you might just be dining near where it was picked just hours earlier.

Restaurant Fontane

She is a soldier

Behind the interior dining room, a peaceful terrace awaits you, facing a small interior garden dotted with flowering trees and a bubbling fountain, made for relaxation and lingering, perhaps with drops of red and a plate of sumptuous burrata. Expect that plus all the Italian comfort classics under the sun, along with elevated specialties and the warm grace that permeates the air of a family-owned and operated neighborhood favorite.

Nadine's

Yorktown Heights

Some believe that there is no garden like a beer garden, and in this case they are absolutely right. Traditional German specialties, cooked with family pride and kissed with a touch of French flair, are complemented by beer, wine, cocktails and Austrian brandies and liqueurs, which can be tasted at traditional picnic settings and ordinary tables and chairs.

The North Star

Pound Ridge

The wraparound porch draws visitors from the road, but the inventive, New American dishes of duck dumplings, truffle mac 'n' cheese, and cauliflower steak with edamame puree instantly turn them into regulars. Burgers and steaks, craft cocktails and beer and wine round off the experience and make it a complete good time.

Prime Pub

Somers

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle and nestled in the tranquility of the neighboring lake, this gastropub offers the perfect bites for an alfresco afternoon. Philly cheesesteak spring rolls and Buffalo cauliflower are available — unless you opt for something lighter, like tuna crudo or a dozen fresh Blue Point oysters. Whatever your stomach tells you, the result will be satisfactory.

Casa Tequila kitchen and bar

Armonk

A formal, friendly courtyard adorned with faux ivy walls and hand-painted murals celebrating Mexican culture is perfect for diving into traditional Latin/Mexican dishes that tempt, satisfy, and discerning foodies. Authentic street tacos and rice bowls share menu space with steak entrees and shrimp ranchera, all complemented by more than 100 tequilas and mezcals behind the bar.

Lucija restaurant

Bedford

Enjoy real Italian cuisine on the outdoor terrace of Ristorante Lucia, full of lush greenery on all sides. The sprawling canopy of vines and twinkling lights seem like they've come from the Amalfi Coast, while the rich menu of pasta, fish, meat and vegetable dishes requires little or no convincing that you've left the country. With sprayer in hand, we challenge you to spot the difference.

Purdy's Farmer and the Fishes

North Salem

To sample what is arguably Westchester's most unique alfresco dining setting, grab a coveted spot (there are only about two dozen of them) at one of the quaint, rustic picnic tables perched atop the front porch of this 1776 farmhouse, which boasts a rustic refined foodie vibe and four hectares of arable agricultural land in terraces. Regardless of the season, exceptionally fresh produce appears on every plate (thanks to a stocked cellar), with beef, poultry and fish sourced from ethically-minded family farms and co-ops as staples.

The king's garden

Chappaqua

It may not be the South of France, but a wide terrace adorned with cascading vineyards, perennial gardens and the shade of a grand old maple tree is a pretty sweet spot to enjoy some classicsI do not know whatin the heart of one of the most picturesque villages in the county. Don't be alarmed if there's a whiff of the American South in the air - among the quiches, Nicoise and ratatouille salads, mussels and braised leaves there's a hot grill; namely the ribs of St.