We present six more delightful dining spots to soak in the summer scenery while enjoying terrific food and drink.
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Green turf and black and white umbrellas set a summery and whimsical tone for dining outdoors at Billy and Pete’s Social. The name says it all: Bring the dogs, bring the kids. On chilly nights the patio is heated. “The coolest thing about this outdoor dining space is how spacious it is and the big park next to us,” says Paola Nina, operating owner and partner with Billy Bishop. The scene overlooks Memorial Park—which makes for after-meal fun for kids and pets alike. The inventive menu includes their famous Detroit-style pepperoni cup pizza, crispy cauliflower, and homemade fresh doughnuts. If you are going for drinks, try the watermelon crush cocktail made with fresh-squeezed juice. For burgers al fresco, try their new outpost, also in Larchmont: Billy & Pete’s Burger Bar, which has live music some Thursdays and cornhole tournaments every Tuesday. billyandpetes.com
Rooftop Deck Hudson Anchor, Sleepy Hollow
If you can snag a seat on the rooftop deck at Hudson Anchor, it’s a great spot to take in those gorgeous Hudson river views and sample something from their thoughtful craft beer menu. Lots of seafood on the menu here to pair with your river watching; the steamed clams appetizer and paella for two entrée makes for a great date night choice. If you prefer your meat to stand rather than swim, try the Anchor burger, their signature sandwich, a chuck braised short rib on a brioche bun with truffle parmesan fries. hudsonanchorseafood.com
West-Coast Vibe 3 Westerly Bar & Grill, Ossining
Located in Harbor Square near the NY Waterway Terminal and Metro-North Station, this free-standing lighthouse has been converted into an incredible dining experience on the Hudson River. While the setting offers sunset views and a California-cool vibe, the menu is the main draw: Modern American cuisine with an emphasis on seafood ranges from juicy Wagyu hanger steak to tuna tartare crunchy rice cakes to artisanal wood-fired pizzas. Don’t miss their inventive craft cocktail menu that includes, among others, the Mo’jito Mo’problems, Frosé, and the Lady of the Night, which is organic vodka, passionfruit, vanilla, and hibiscus with fresh lemon and champagne. “It’s all the comforts of a Manhattan hospitality experience while appreciating the visually striking yet relatively tranquil setting of Westchester’s Hudson River shoreline,” says Water DeBrito, director of operations at 3 Westerly. “When you’re this close to the water, there’s a lot to soak in.” 3westerly.com
This classic Greek taverna is perfect for a family outing, casual date night, or dinner with friends. Their tented outdoor patio makes for a great outdoor option when you aren’t sure about the weather. The clouds may be unpredictable, but the dining experience at Meraki is a sure thing. “Meraki Taverna is a truly authentic Mediterranean dining experience,” says owner Chef Mike Sarris. “The food is authentic to Greece and Cyprus both in terms of preparation and presentation. Our staff is knowledgeable and friendly and treat our guests like a part of our family.” Be sure to try the Cypriot meatball to start, followed by the fresh grilled Branzino de-boned right at your table and paired with a light, crisp Malagousia white wine. merakitaverna-armonk.com
Farmside Seats Purdy’s Farmer & the Fish, Purdy’s
We recently recommended this spot for Mother’s Day brunch, but the setting here is worth revisiting for a summer al fresco. Kitchen gardens grow right behind the restaurant. Reserve a spot outdoors under the tent or on the front porch of this country tavern and delight in the restaurant’s seasonal, fresh-off-the-farm ingredients. Meals here include lots of fresh salads and meats. Try the Amish fried chicken with scallion mash, farm slaw, and gravy. Down-county fans should also check out their sister location: Hudson Farmer & the Fish in Sleepy Hollow, right on the river. farmerandthefish.com
Golf Course Views North Street Tavern & Wood Fired Pizza, White Plains
Longtime residents might remember that 10 years ago, Maple Moor Golf Course was floundering to find the right dining option for the space, but since North Street Tavern moved in more than seven years ago, it’s been a match made in heaven. This casual tavern serves up classic American and Italian dishes in an easy and welcoming atmosphere, and the setting overlooking the golf course is quite lovely and relaxing. Try one of the wood-fired specialty pizzas like the truffle pizza or the Verdura pizza with roasted peppers, portobello mushrooms, and basil, with your favorite red. northstreettavern.com
Kristan Sveda is a graduate of the Columbia School of Journalism with 20 years of experience in journalism writing for local publications in and around Westchester. When she isn’t writing, she’s toting her three boys to baseball or basketball games, tackling the humongous weeds in her backyard, or binging on Canadian television.
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