Riverpark Debuts Summer Hideaway

Nothing like eating fried chicken alfresco

'Tis the season of sprawling city beer gardens, but not everyone wants to elbow their way through the masses for a table with a view. Tucked away on a quiet block in Kips Bay by the East River, Tom Colicchio's Riverpark just opened its terrace, a 72-seat outdoor urban oasis, adjacent to the restaurant.

Soak in the sun as you graze on casual modern American fare perfect for sharing. Executive chef Sisha Ortuzar has whipped up tasty fried oyster tacos with lime-pickled onions ($5), skillet fried chicken ($17), and gooey cheese empanadas ($9). Don't forget the lime-spiked fresh watermelon ($4).

An urban oasis with views

Add some friends, music, sleek communal tables, and a pitcher of Harpoon ($18), and that makes one fine summertime happy hour. You'll quickly forget the racing street traffic below.

Riverpark

450 E 29th St

Between First Ave + East River

212 729 9790