When the sun shines and the breeze whispers, there’s no better way to savor a meal than outdoors, especially in a region as naturally beautiful and culinarily rich as Westchester County. From panoramic river vistas to cozy garden patios and bustling town squares, the top outdoor dining spots Westchester County transform a simple meal into an unforgettable experience. This isn't just about eating; it's about soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, enjoying the fresh air, and creating memories under the open sky.
At a Glance: Your Guide to Westchester Al Fresco
- Discover Diverse Settings: Explore everything from elegant waterfront patios to lively gastropub beer gardens and intimate garden courtyards.
- Match Your Mood & Cuisine: Find options for every craving, from authentic Italian and modern American to vibrant Mexican, Asian, and Mediterranean flavors.
- Navigate with Ease: Learn how to choose the perfect spot based on occasion, group size, and desired ambiance.
- Prepare for Perfection: Get practical tips on reservations, weather considerations, and enhancing your outdoor dining experience.
- Uncover Hidden Gems: We highlight unique establishments that offer more than just a meal—they offer a destination.
Why Outdoor Dining in Westchester Is a Must-Do
Westchester County boasts a remarkable array of outdoor dining options, with 47 top-rated experiences identified across the region. This isn't a mere handful of patios; it’s a diverse landscape designed to cater to every taste, occasion, and preference. Imagine dining with breathtaking views of the Hudson River, surrounded by historic architecture, or nestled in a vibrant garden. The opportunity to pair exceptional food with stunning natural backdrops and engaging atmospheres is truly what sets Westchester apart. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a lively family brunch, or a casual catch-up with friends, the county offers a distinct al fresco setting to elevate your dining experience.
Riverside Retreats & Scenic Vistas: Dining with a View
Westchester's prime location along the Hudson River provides an abundance of restaurants that masterfully blend culinary excellence with captivating views. These spots aren't just about the food; they're about the panorama.
- Harvest on Hudson (Hastings-on-Hudson): This elegant farmhouse offers a sprawling summer outdoor garden patio for 200, granting romantic views of the NYC skyline and the Tappan Zee Bridge. Known for its American plates and raw bar, it's a quintessential choice for special occasions.
- Red Hat on the River (Irvington): Housed in a renovated 100-year-old factory, this French-American bistro delivers classic dishes like Moules Frites alongside American favorites, all while diners enjoy spectacular Hudson River vistas.
- Hudson Social (Dobbs Ferry): Situated at the Dobbs Ferry Train Station, this New American spot offers pizza, burgers, and pub food. Its waterfront location near a park and family-friendly atmosphere, complete with a kids' menu, makes it ideal for a casual outing.
- Dolphin Restaurant (Yonkers): A stylish seafood spot on Van Der Donck Street, Dolphin presents Mediterranean-inspired dishes on a large patio that directly overlooks the scenic Hudson River.
- 3 Westerly Bar and Grill (Ossining): An American gastropub with a nautical-themed interior, 3 Westerly offers American cuisine, pizza, and even sushi. Its patio provides truly stunning Hudson River views.
- Half Moon (Dobbs Ferry): This riverside restaurant and bar specializes in American cuisine, seafood, and steaks. Its patio offers stunning views of Manhattan and the Tappan Zee Bridge, echoing the vista of Harvest on Hudson.
- Sambal Thai & Malay (Irvington): For a different twist on waterfront dining, this restaurant serves classic Thai and Malaysian cuisine with cocktails and wine, all from a balcony that provides amazing Hudson River views.
- Sunset Cove (Tarrytown): Located beneath the Tappan Zee Bridge at Washington Irving Boat Club, Sunset Cove offers Continental cuisine with breathtaking Hudson River views, perfect for watching the sun dip below the horizon.
- Bridge View Tavern (Sleepy Hollow): As its name suggests, this warm, casual spot offers stunning Hudson River views alongside a wide selection of microbrews and classic pub fare like gourmet burgers.
Charming Gardens & Unique Outdoor Settings: Ambiance Beyond the Plate
Sometimes, it’s the intimate setting, the unique architecture, or the unexpected charm that draws you in. Westchester has several outdoor dining spots where the ambiance is as much a part of the experience as the meal.
- Goosefeather (Tarrytown): Nestled in an 1840s mansion, Goosefeather offers modern Cantonese cuisine with local ingredients. Its outdoor space provides a refreshing and adventurous atmosphere that feels far from formal.
- Purdy's Farmer & the Fish (North Salem & Sleepy Hollow): This charming 18th-century farmhouse (with two locations) embodies farm-to-table dining, serving seafood and vegetables grown on-site. Dining here is an experience deeply connected to the land.
- Argana Restaurant & Bar (Port Chester): Known for authentic Mediterranean cuisine, tagines, and a full bar, Argana features a charming courtyard setting with French doors that open to outdoor seating, complete with a bocce court for added fun.
- Scalini Osteria (Bronxville): This Tuscan restaurant with cozy modern decor boasts an enchanting outdoor courtyard, making it a perfect spot for romantic meals with a frequently changing menu.
- Walter's Hot Dogs (Mamaroneck): A local landmark since 1928, Walter's serves its famous hot dogs and comfort food from an iconic art deco pagoda. Its outdoor dining area is a nostalgic step back in time.
- Colony Grill (Port Chester): Famous for its thin-crust pizzas with signature hot oil, Colony Grill offers a casual outdoor patio overlooking the Byram River, providing a relaxed, neighborhood feel.
Farm-to-Table & Local Flavors: Freshness Under the Sky
For those who prioritize fresh, local ingredients and a connection to the culinary process, Westchester’s outdoor dining scene delivers with farm-focused concepts and modern takes on American cuisine.
- RiverMarket Bar and Kitchen (Tarrytown): A true farm-to-fork experience, RiverMarket embodies the spirit of the Hudson Valley by representing local farmers and producers through its New American cuisine and biodynamic wine selection.
- Moderne Barn Restaurant (Armonk): This vibrant, equestrian-themed space offers a globe-trotting menu and an extensive selection of sustainably produced wines. Its outdoor area combines sophistication with a fresh, contemporary feel.
- The Beehive (Armonk): A family-owned establishment, The Beehive offers traditional American and Mediterranean dishes, including delicious breakfast options, perfect for enjoying a morning meal al fresco.
Casual Bites & Lively Brews: Relaxed Outdoor Vibes
Sometimes, the goal is simply good food, great company, and a relaxed atmosphere. Westchester has plenty of outdoor spots perfect for unwinding with friends or family.
- bartaco (Port Chester): This vibrant riverside taqueria is a hub for creative Mexican street food, tequila, and margaritas. Its sun-drenched patio and beach-resort decor create an instant vacation vibe.
- Birdsall House (Peekskill): A downtown gastropub since 2010, Birdsall House is renowned for its craft brews, local pub fare, and lively beer garden events. Their famous French fries are a must-try.
- Candlelight Inn (Scarsdale): A cash-only roadside bar, Candlelight Inn is legendary for serving the best crispy Buffalo wings in Westchester, alongside other pub grub, in a classic, no-frills outdoor setting.
- Sam's of Gedney Way (White Plains): An establishment since 1932, Sam's offers a spacious pub-style venue that caters to both casual and intimate dining with outdoor options.
- The Brazen Fox (White Plains): This American restaurant features sports TVs, pub fare, and patio seating (spaced six feet apart). With DJs on weekends, it's a lively spot where reservations are recommended.
- Demeter’s Tavern & Sports Bar (Tarrytown): A beloved local gathering spot since 1947, Demeter's offers classic American food and a full bar, with outdoor seating perfect for catching a game or just enjoying the buzz.
- Rory Dolan's Restaurant & Bar (Yonkers): Offering an authentic Irish dining experience, Rory Dolan's serves traditional Irish and American cuisine, like Maryland crab cakes and Dublin-style fish and chips, with outdoor seating that captures a lively pub spirit.
Global Flavors Al Fresco: A World Tour in Westchester
Westchester’s outdoor dining isn’t limited to American or Italian fare. You can embark on a culinary journey around the world, enjoying diverse cuisines in the fresh air.
- Moscato (Scarsdale): This Scarsdale eatery specializes in authentic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, providing both inviting indoor and outdoor dining options with exceptional service.
- Gigante (Eastchester): A vibrant restaurant with a joyful atmosphere, Gigante offers delicious Italian appetizers and main courses by Chef Albano, often accompanied by nightlife with guest DJs, all available al fresco.
- Fortina (Armonk, Rye Brook, Yonkers): Established in 2012, Fortina offers seasonal Italian cuisine with creative twists, prepared in wood-burning ovens, perfect for an outdoor gathering.
- Buon Amici Italian Restaurant (White Plains): A cozy spot for authentic regional Italian "red-sauce" dishes, Buon Amici offers an inviting outdoor space ideal for family gatherings.
- Lusardi's (Larchmont): An upscale restaurant since 1994, Lusardi's specializes in seasonal Mediterranean and Italian cuisine with an extensive wine list, featuring elegant outdoor dining.
- Terra Rustica Ristorante Italiano (Briarcliff Manor): This modern Italian eatery and cocktail bar offers an all-day menu crafted in an open kitchen using seasonal ingredients, with a chic outdoor area.
- Piccola Trattoria (Bronxville): An intimate Italian restaurant with a seasonal menu of homemade pastas and dishes like Bistecca and Branzino, offering charming outdoor seating.
- Pasquale Ristorante (Port Chester): This charming white-tablecloth Italian eatery embodies "Grandma-style" Southern Italian cuisine, complete with an inviting patio perfect for a traditional family meal.
- Chutney Masala (Irvington): A riverside warehouse eatery, Chutney Masala showcases traditional and modern Northern Indian dishes in a unique outdoor setting.
- DonJito (Mamaroneck Avenue): A chic eatery blending NYC charm with industrial flair, DonJito serves authentic Mexican dishes infused with Latin flavors, with elegant outdoor seating.
- Mariachi Mexico (Armonk): Family-run since 1990, this restaurant uses locally sourced and seasonal ingredients to create vibrant Mexican dishes, offering a delightful outdoor dining experience.
- Rye Roadhouse (Rye): Famous for its fried chicken, especially on Wednesday nights, Rye Roadhouse offers Cajun and Creole cuisine, steaks, and seafood with lively outdoor options.
- Vintage 1891 Kitchen (Larchmont): A wine lounge in a renovated historic building (1891), Vintage 1891 offers contemporary American cuisine, extensive wines, and tapas, with outdoor seating in a historic setting.
Elevating the Experience: Practical Tips for Your Al Fresco Adventure
Choosing one of the top outdoor dining spots in Westchester County is just the first step. To truly maximize your experience, consider these practical tips:
Navigating the Scene: A Quick Decision Framework
Before you even think about reservations, consider what kind of outdoor experience you're truly seeking. This quick framework can help you narrow down the perfect spot:
- Occasion & Vibe: Is it a romantic date night (Harvest on Hudson, Scalini Osteria), a lively family dinner (Hudson Social, bartaco), or a casual get-together with friends (Birdsall House, The Brazen Fox)? Your desired mood dictates the best fit. For a broader perspective on matching restaurants to specific occasions and vibes, check out our guide on Top restaurants by occasion.
- View vs. Atmosphere: Do you prioritize stunning Hudson River views (Red Hat on the River, Dolphin) or a charming, tucked-away garden atmosphere (Argana, Purdy's Farmer & the Fish)? Some spots offer both!
- Cuisine Craving: Are you in the mood for classic Italian (Moscato, Fortina), adventurous Cantonese (Goosefeather), or fresh farm-to-table (RiverMarket Bar and Kitchen)? Westchester's diversity is its strength.
- Group Dynamics: Are kids joining (Hudson Social, Walter's Hot Dogs)? Is it a larger party requiring ample space (Harvest on Hudson)? Confirming amenities like kids' menus or larger tables in advance is key.
- Budget & Formality: Are you looking for an upscale, white-tablecloth experience (Benjamin Steakhouse, Kanopi) or a more relaxed, pub-style meal (Candlelight Inn, Birdsall House)?
Your Pre-Visit Checklist
- Reservations are Your Best Friend: Especially for popular spots, waterfront tables, or weekend evenings, securing a reservation is crucial. Many outdoor sections fill up fast. Use online booking tools or call ahead.
- Weather Watch: Keep a close eye on the forecast. While many restaurants have awnings or umbrellas, unexpected rain or a sudden chill can impact your experience.
- Dress for Comfort & Layers: Outdoor dining means exposure to the elements. Dress comfortably, and bring layers – a light jacket or wrap can be a lifesaver when the sun sets or a breeze picks up.
- Bug Spray is a Smart Move: Especially at spots near water or lush greenery, insects can be a nuisance. A small bottle of bug spray can make a big difference in your comfort.
- Check for Specific Outdoor Amenities: Does the restaurant offer heaters, blankets, live music, or fire pits? Knowing what to expect enhances your choice.
Making the Most of Your Outdoor Dining Experience
- Arrive Early (if no reservation): If the restaurant doesn't take reservations for outdoor seating, arriving just before peak hours (e.g., 5:30 PM for dinner) can increase your chances of snagging a prime spot.
- Embrace the Ambiance: Part of the charm of outdoor dining is the natural backdrop and surrounding activity. Let the sounds and sights become part of your meal.
- Be Patient: Outdoor service can sometimes be a bit slower depending on the setup and server allocation. Relax, enjoy your company, and soak in the atmosphere.
- Mind the Sun: If you’re sensitive to direct sunlight, request a shaded table when making your reservation or upon arrival.
- Support Local: Many of these establishments are local gems. Your patronage helps these businesses thrive and continue offering incredible experiences.
Quick Answers: Common Outdoor Dining Questions
Q: Do most outdoor dining spots in Westchester allow dogs?
A: While specific policies vary, many restaurants with outdoor patios in Westchester are dog-friendly, especially those with more casual settings. It's always best practice to call ahead and confirm with the restaurant directly to avoid disappointment.
Q: Are there outdoor dining options in Westchester suitable for large groups or celebrations?
A: Absolutely! Restaurants like Harvest on Hudson offer expansive outdoor patios that can accommodate large groups for celebrations. Others, like Sam's of Gedney Way or Gigante, also have outdoor areas designed for a lively group experience. Always make reservations well in advance and communicate your group size and occasion.
Q: What if the weather changes unexpectedly during my outdoor meal?
A: Many top outdoor dining spots in Westchester have contingency plans, such as covered sections, large umbrellas, or indoor seating they can transition to if possible. However, space might be limited, especially on busy nights. Calling ahead to ask about their rain plan can ease your mind. Bringing a light jacket or umbrella yourself is always a good personal backup.
Q: Can I find gluten-free or vegetarian options at Westchester's outdoor restaurants?
A: Yes, the vast majority of Westchester's diverse restaurants are accustomed to accommodating dietary restrictions. Many, like RiverMarket Bar and Kitchen (farm-to-fork), offer naturally varied menus. Always inform your server of your needs when ordering, and it's a good idea to check the menu online beforehand.
Q: Are there outdoor dining spots that offer entertainment, like live music?
A: Yes, several venues enhance their outdoor dining with entertainment. Birdsall House is known for its lively beer garden events, and The Brazen Fox often features DJs on weekends. Gigante also hosts guest DJs. Check the restaurant's website or social media for their event schedule.
Your Next Al Fresco Adventure Awaits
Westchester County offers a treasure trove of outdoor dining experiences, each with its unique charm, culinary delights, and captivating backdrop. From the sophisticated elegance of a riverside patio overlooking Manhattan to the casual buzz of a gastropub beer garden, there's an al fresco table with your name on it. By considering the occasion, the atmosphere, and a few practical tips, you’re well-equipped to choose and enjoy the perfect outdoor dining spot for any mood or craving. Don't just eat; experience Westchester.