With school out and summer officially in session, New York restaurants are reclaiming the sidewalks for outdoor dining free of heat lamps and tents. Lucky residents of the no-fee apartments in NYC at ARO live within walking distance of the city’s finest dining, including a few select eateries with spectacular outdoor arrangements. Here are just a few of our favorite sidewalk spots around ARO for fine dining or unwinding.
ARO residents seeking an authentic Southern Italian evening, complete with an extensive wine list, should head south on 8th Avenue to Masseria dei Vini (translates to the “Fortified Farmhouse of Wines”). Based on the Puglian style of restaurant housed in massive castle-like farmhouses, this playful Americanized take combines classic Italian fare and vinos with wines from around the world. Take a seat at one of the sidewalk tables and peruse the extensive wine list before chowing down on fresh homemade pastas, authentic pizza from a Ferrara wood-burning oven, and succulent Southern Italian cuisine focused on fish and shellfish.
Just a few blocks further south and west of Masseria dei Vini, ARO residents will find the lovely sidewalk tables in front of Marseille, where France meets the Mediterranean at a traditional brasserie that’s been a neighborhood staple for nearly 20 years. Named after the iconic North African port city, Marseille is anchored by Chef Andy D’Amico, who mixes French cuisine with elements from around the Mediterranean to create unique takes on classic dishes like bouillabaisse and burgers, served with the restaurant’s legendary steak frites. Traditions like the Oyster Happy Hour lure theatergoers to the brasserie, while Marseille’s bartenders sling twists on iconic cocktails from brunch until closing.
While these spots are great for a quick bite or an extended feast, sometimes ARO residents want a more relaxed atmosphere to unwind and watch the game. That’s where nearby Gossip Bar on 9th Avenue comes in. This cozy Irish bar/restaurant combines the sumptuous interior of an Irish pub, complete with leather booths and a fireplace, with upscale bar bites from brunch through dinner, all paired with cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits from the full bar. Outdoor seating brings the fun to the sidewalk for the summer, making Gossip the perfect place to transition that hungover morning into a sunny day on the town.
Of course, with ARO’s central location in the heart of Manhattan, these eateries just scratch the surface of food and beverage destinations within easy walking distance. But don’t take our word for it! Contact the ARO team today and start exploring Midtown’s restaurant scene tomorrow.