New York's Outdoor Lounges

Make a point this summer to enjoy warm nights under the stars, right here in our own backyard. This is the time when New York really comes alive, and these are the spots you need to hit:

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Gitano – Tribeca

Tropical vibes from the chic Gitano Restaurant of Mexico’s Tulum vacation destination, transported almost brick-for-brick (or, palm-by-palm?) from the Yucatán Peninsula to the Concrete Jungle.

The Gitano Garden of Love is a beach paradise at the corner of Varick and Canal, where Smorgasburg used to be. The sand and palm trees will have you thinking you’re someplace else- that is, until you take in the views of Tribeca’s iconic “Jenga Tower” at 56 Leonard and One World Trade Center off in the distance.

Their dining experience consists of seasonal local ingredients cooked in a wood burning oven & open fire grill, with shared dining in mind. Across the street you’ll also find the Gitano Jungle Room at the James Hotel, an experience created in collaboration by Michelin-starred Chef Mads Refsulnd and head Chef Yvan Lemoine.

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Pier 17 – Seaport Area

After years of Hurricane Sandy reconstruction, the revitalized South Street Seaport area has come alive again. The Pier 17 Rooftop is sure to be one of New York’s coolest new concert venues, spanning 1.5 acres right on the water. Their 2019 Summer Music Series has something for everybody this year.

While you’re down that way, consider stopping into the iPic Theater for a date night, or make a day trip out of it with a stop on Governor’s Island.

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Nowadays – Bushwick/Ridgewood

This indoor/outdoor haven has the chill Brooklyn vibe that’s worth visiting any night of the week. They’re open (late) every night of the week, and the backyard area is always free to hang out in. With resident DJs and a food-truck style kitchen, it feels like a post-Art Basel trip to Wynwood, Miami.

The indoor space occasionally charges for special events, and there’s something good almost every day of the week over the summer. Full events list here.

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Saturdays NYC – Soho

This is a special mention, since it’s more of a day spot. Saturdays is ostensibly a clothing shop, but what they don’t advertise so much is that they’re also a great place for coffee. The benches outside their Perry Street location in the West Village are prime for people-watching, but their Crosby Street location is one of Soho’s best-kept secrets. If you walk straight through the shop to the back door, you’ll come out into a garden hangout that’s not to be missed.


What are your favorite summer hangouts in NYC? Tag me on Insta @mikelubinnyc! And don’t forget- the housing market is hottest in the summer. If you have any questions about buying or selling an apartment in New York, be sure to reach out.

~Mike