Gantry Plaza State Park along the Long Island City waterfront is one of our favorite spots to take in views of the Manhattan skyline. And with awesome restaurants surrounding the park, it makes for a perfect outing when you want scenic city views paired with top-notch cuisine.
After checking out many of the restaurants in the area, here are our personal top 5 restaurant recommendations near Gantry Plaza State Park:
1. SHI
For trendy Asian fusion plates in a super cool setting, check out SHI. This restaurant has insane floor-to-ceiling windows looking out at the Manhattan skyline across the river.
The sleek, exotic decor and open kitchen set the mood for an awesome pan-Asian dining experience. With creative sushi rolls, dumplings, pad thai and more, the menu matches the sexy ambiance. Don’t miss the melt-in-your-mouth Short Ribs.
Inside of SHI restaurant
2. Blend on the Water
For waterfront dining at its best, make a reservation at Blend on the Water. This restaurant located right on the pier has a lively indoor space but the outdoor patio is the star.
Snag a table on their patio overlooking the river and take in the views of the passing boats with the city skyline in the background. Pair it with some sangria or mojitos and tasty Latin fusion plates like empanadas, roasted pork shoulder, and sea bass.
It’s not cheap, but the relaxing environment paired with the food and drinks makes it a perfect weekend splurge in the warmer months.
An inside view of Blend on the Water
3. Skinny’s Cantina
If you’re looking for good Mexican food in a casual, festive setting, check out Skinny’s Cantina. This spot isn’t right on the waterfront but it’s just a short walk from Gantry Park.
Skinny’s is known for their house margaritas and Mexican fare like tacos, burritos, fajitas and more. The vibrant, artsy decor and lively vibe make it a great choice for drinks, guac and chips after a day at the park. And prices are budget-friendly.
A photo inside of Skinny Cantina
4. Blend
Blend is an upscale Latin American restaurant just a quick stroll from Gantry Park. Blend infuses various Latin flavors into contemporary cuisine ranging from tapas to steaks.
The classy ambiance with dim lighting and brick walls makes it a nice choice for a romantic dinner or group night out. Dishes tend to be on the pricier side but you’re paying for high quality.
A photo inside Blend in NY
5. Maiella
Maiella is a go-to spot when you’re craving upscale Italian with a side of stunning views. This place has huge windows and a nice outdoor terrace with awesome views of the Manhattan skyline and landmarks like the Chrysler Building.
Inside, the rustic-chic vibe continues with exposed brick, wood beams, and concrete floors. The food totally lives up to the top-notch setting. Their creamy homemade burrata and Nutella pizza with fresh strawberries have become a personal favorite. It’s a little pricey but worth it for the scenic experience.
Maiella in NY
SESAMO- Italian Restaurant Hell’s Kitchen NYC
We couldn’t write about the area without mentioningSESAMO, an Italian Asian Fusion restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen. It’s not in Gantry Plaza State Park, but is definitely worth the drive to experience their Italian Asian fusion dishes. They also offer a Theater Prixe Fixe everyday from 4:30p until closing, so grab some dinner before heading to the theater!
A photo of the patio bar at SESAMO
So there you have it – our picks for the top 5 restaurants to try on your next visit to Gantry Plaza State Park area. From Italian to Mexican and fusion spots in between, you’ll find awesome food with great views and vibes all around the park.
Located along the East River in Long Island City, Queens, Gantry Plaza State Park is a beautiful 12-acre refuge of green space and waterfront scenery, just minutes from Manhattan. From its piers and gardens to recreational facilities, Gantry Plaza State Park provides a peaceful spot to enjoy the outdoors in the city.
Gantry Plaza State Park: An Urban Waterfront Retreat
Gantry Plaza State Park, tucked along the East River waterfront, features lush gardens, charming fountains, and unobstructed views of the epic Manhattan skyline.
Historic Gantries
The huge gantry structures found all over the park are a nod to its history as a busy cargo and manufacturing area back in the day. The factories and shipping industry have obviously died down, but these cool-looking gantries still stand to represent the site’s industrial past. It’s pretty neat to see these giant steel relics mixed into the park’s gardens and fountains.
Gantry Plaza State Park waterfront in New York
Scenic Piers
The park has four piers that jut out into the East River, which make awesome fishing spots if you want to try your luck catching something. They even have cleaning tables on the piers where you can prep your fish after reeling them in. Aside from fishing, the piers are nice places to take a relaxing stroll along the water. They’re lined with benches where you can sit and soak in the awesome views of the river and the Manhattan skyline in the distance. It’s a great place for an easy-going waterside walk and maybe snap some photos of the panoramic scenery all around.
Gardens and Green Space
Aside from the piers, the park has some really nice garden areas filled with tons of flowers, bushes, trees and other greenery. The gardens are well-taken care of with neat lawns and little fountains that make the whole landscape look really pleasant and relaxing. It’s a cool oasis of nature with lush plants and flowers blooming all around. The gardens are awesome to wander through on a nice day since they provide some shade and add a refreshing splash of color to the park.
Gantry Plaza
The main plaza in the middle of the park is a big open space surrounded by two huge gantry structures. With benches scattered around and some trees providing shade, it’s a great spot to kick back and enjoy the views of the Manhattan skyline in the distance. The plaza really serves as the central hangout spot and gathering place within the park. Whether you want to people watch or just take in the scenery, the plaza is primed for relaxation with its ample seating and awesome skyline panorama.
Recreational Amenities
There’s tons of ways to stay active in Gantry Plaza Park. They’ve got a huge playground, basketball courts, tennis courts, and separate areas just for dogs to run around off-leash. You can bring your pup to certain spots in the park too as long as they’re leashed up.
Between the nice gardens, the paths along the waterfront, and open grassy areas, Gantry Plaza Park really provides that perfect natural escape right in the middle of the busy city. It’s an awesome outdoor oasis just a short trip away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan.
Exploring the Scenic Long Island City Waterfront
Aside from Gantry Plaza Park, there are some other awesome scenic spots around the area where you can take in views of the East River waterfront.
Hunters Point South Park
Hunters Point South Park is a 30-acre green space nearby that has baseball fields, a turf field, basketball courts, and a small “beach” that’s perfect for pictures of the Manhattan skyline. There’s also a huge Pepsi sign there that’s an iconic spot for photos.
A photo of Hunter’s Point South Park
Riverside Piers & Promenades
The Hunters Point South Pier, Anable Basin Pier, and 54th Ave Pier are piers that stick out into the river, providing chill spots to fish or just walk along the waterfront.
Waterside Dining
For waterside dining, restaurants like Skinny’s Cantina and Cyclo have outdoor seating with panoramic views of the water. You can post up on their patios or grab food from the various vendors and trucks around.
With the nice parks, piers, and awesome skyline views, Long Island City’s waterfront area offers tons of ways to relax and hang out that are just a quick ride from the hustle of Manhattan.
Free Museums, Art & Entertainment
Aside from the outdoor spots, Long Island City also has some cool free cultural attractions near Gantry Plaza Park:
With all its parks, recreation, arts, and dining, Long Island City really does have it all. Use Gantry Plaza State Park as a home base while exploring the awesome offerings of the neighborhood. An urban escape full of natural scenery and cultural excitement is waiting there!
New York City has no shortage of awesome parks. But Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City, Queens is definitely one of my favorites, and has a fascinating history behind it.
A Little Background
Gantry Plaza State Park is this 12-acre riverside oasis along the East River. Hard to believe, but it used to be an industrial wasteland back in the day. This whole area was just old manufacturing plants and abandoned piers. Not exactly a place you’d want to chill out on a sunny afternoon. But in the 90s, the state stepped in and decided to give this spot a major makeover.
And let me tell ya, they totally knocked it out of the park (no pun intended). This place went from urban nightmare to urban paradise. Now instead of rusty factories and busted up sidewalks, you’ve got green spaces, public art, and sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline across the river. Pretty crazy glow-up if you ask me.
From Railways to Parks
To understand how amazing the transformation was, we gotta go back in time real quick. In the early 1900s, this slice of the waterfront was booming with industry. The Long Island Rail Road had a whole freight operation going with railcars and barges shipping goods between Queens and Manhattan.
There were huge loading bridges called gantries (that’s where the name Gantry Plaza comes from) for transferring cargo back and forth. And the Pepsi sign that’s now a landmark in the park? Yup, that was on top of a Pepsi bottling plant that used to be here.
But by the late 1900s, all the industry had died out. The factories were sitting empty and the old railway infrastructure was rusting away. Definitely not a prime location. Luckily, the city saw potential and kicked off plans to turn this eyesore into a public park along the water.
Long Island Railroad in the early 1900s
Transformation Time
Redeveloping an industrial brownfield wasn’t easy, but the city rolled up their sleeves and got to work. They demolished the crumbling buildings, cleaned up the contaminated land, and designed a brand new 12-acre greenspace.
The park opened in 1998, but they’ve expanded it over the years into different phases. One thing I really love is how they incorporated pieces of the old railway while giving everything a modern twist. Those gantry loading bridges are now lit up at night and make for awesome photo ops. And the iconic Pepsi sign was restored and mounted in the park – such a cool nod to the history here!
Key Features of the Park
There’s so much to love about Gantry Plaza State Park! Here are some of my personal highlights:
Scenic Promenade
They built this awesome waterfront promenade that lines the East River. You can take a relaxing stroll along the promenade and soak in spectacular views of the United Nations headquarters and the Manhattan skyline across the water. The city skyline is practically close enough to touch!
Recreational Amenities
In addition to the walkways, there are big open lawns, playgrounds for the kids, sports fields, fishing piers…you name it. You could easily spend a whole day here jogging, picnicking, or reading in the grass. Lots of great ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Public Events
From outdoor concerts to holiday celebrations, there’s always something fun going on at Gantry Plaza State Park! It’s a lively community gathering place with free events happening year-round.
Wildlife Watching
Keep an eye out for shorebirds and waterfowl along the river’s edge. The park’s piers and natural areas provide habitat for all kinds of urban wildlife. I’ve spotted herons, falcons, ducks, geese, and even seals swimming nearby!
Revitalizing Long Island City
Building Gantry Plaza State Park was a catalyst for revitalizing the whole Long Island City waterfront. It sparked a wave of new residential and commercial development in the area. Now the neighborhoods around the park are filled with luxury condos, office buildings, shops, restaurants, and other parks and attractions.
Basically this green oasis breathed new life into the community and transformed the gritty industrial zone into a sought-after spot to live, work, and visit. The 180-degree change is really remarkable. Queens residents now have this vibrant, scenic park right in their backyard to enjoy.
Gantry Plaza State Park waterfront in New York
The Park Today
These days, Gantry Plaza State Park is one of the most popular public parks in Queens. It sees around a million visitors every year! Locals and tourists alike flock here to unwind and soak up the scenery. You’ll see folks jogging, cycling, and strolling through the park. There’s just such a friendly, laid-back vibe.
Getting to the park is super easy too – it’s close to subways and ferries. I try to come here whenever I need a relaxing escape from the concrete jungle. There’s just something special about being by the water and watching the boats cruise along the river.
An Urban Oasis Reborn
Gantry Plaza State Park is a prime example of how to transform an urban industrial wasteland into a vibrant public space and natural retreat. The city could’ve easily bulldozed the polluted piers and put up condos. But instead, they gave the land back to the community as a waterfront park for all to access and enjoy. It just goes to show the power of green spaces in bringing life and energy back to the urban landscape.
So next time you need a breath of fresh air, head to Gantry Park! Stroll the promenade, have a picnic, and remind yourself that even in the biggest of cities, you can always find an oasis if you know where to look. This riverside gem is one of New York’s hidden treasures.
You know when you’re trying to find something fun to do for the day, but you end up with decision paralysis because there are too many options? Yeah, I’ve totally been there. But let me tell you about this spot I think you’ll love – Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing.
It’s this unexpected little oasis of nature right in the middle of NYC. As soon as you step foot inside, you instantly feel relaxed. Who knew a place like this existed! But the best part? It’s surrounded by a ton of other awesome things to see and do in the borough.
Queens Botanical Garden
This hidden gem may be small at just 39 acres, but it packs a relaxing punch. Meandering the fragrant walking paths and exotic flower beds melts stress away. It all started as part of the ’39 World’s Fair. Now, it’s a beloved community space for outdoor concerts, gardening workshops, seasonal festivals – a breath of fresh air from the urban grind.
The best part? The garden is surrounded by iconic attractions, mouth watering restaurants, and quirky cultural spots.
The Children’s Garden is great for families. Kids can dig in the dirt, plant seeds, and learn about vegetables. They’ll love the treehouse and fairy garden too!.
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
A short walk from the Botanical Garden sits Flushing Meadows Corona Park, site of the ’39 and ’64 World’s Fairs. Who cares if that was ages ago? The remnants of the fairs give the massive park an irresistible retro vibe.
Got kids? The New York Hall of Science is a must. Tackle hands-on exhibits and mini-golf with views of real rockets. Total sci-fi blast. Meanwhile, history buffs admire the meticulously detailed Panorama model of the city at the Queens Museum.
Prefer fresh air? Paddle the lake, picnic under the cherry blossoms, or bike the paths winding around fountains leftover from the fairs. On summer weekends, locals flock here for festivals, concerts, and movies under the stars.
Flushing Meadows Corona Park in NY
Citi Field
If you’re a baseball fan, Citi Field is also right in the area. Even if you’re not, it’s fun to tour for the Instagrammable scenes.
Pro tip: Come on a Sunday and kids can dash the bases after the final out. Plus, offseason stadium tours give you an insider’s peek at highlights like the Jackie Robinson Rotunda. Easy to pair with a day at the Botanical Garden.
Citi Field during a baseball game in NY
Queens Night Market
Warm summer Saturday nights mean one thing: feasting at the Queens Night Market. Imagine an international food carnival with finger foods from over 100 vendors – Colombian empanadas, Hawaiian shaved ice, Nepalese dumplings for just a few bucks each. Yeah, it’s epic.
Besides just the amazing food, local bands and artisan booths give it a fun street fair vibe. Wander for hours and leave satisfied with full bellies and new discoveries.
Queens Night Market in New York
Socrates Sculpture Park and Noguchi Museum
Socrates Sculpture Park in Queens, New York
If you appreciate art and nature, two spots you have to check out are Socrates Sculpture Park and the Noguchi Museum.
Socrates Sculpture Park is an outdoor exhibition space right on the East River overlooking Manhattan. It features large-scale sculptures that change throughout the year, so it’s always an interesting new display.
Bring a picnic, walk through the art, and take in the awesome views of the city skyline. Did I mention admission is free? That’s my kind of museum.
Just up the street is the Noguchi Museum dedicated to the work of sculptor Isamu Noguchi. The indoor/outdoor galleries feel tranquil and meditative. Noguchi’s sculptures are modern but also organic with natural shapes and textures. It’s a small museum but worth the visit, especially paired with Socrates Park.
The Noguchi Museum in New York
Where to Eat Nearby
Flushing’s food scene is unreal. Score authentic Chinese dim sum, fiery Korean BBQ, and Asian fusion at Spicy Shallot. The international food court Flavor Town lets you sample Peruvian ceviche to Taiwanese popcorn chicken all in one place.
Don’t pass up the dessert drinks either. Coconut milk tea with boba from a Flushing bubble tea shop? Yep, Queens has that covered too.
Tips for Exploring
Getting around:The 7 subway line is your best bet. Parking is available but public transit is usually easier.
Best times of year:Visit during spring and fall to enjoy the parks and gardens comfortably. Summer nights are perfect for Night Market.
Best times of day: Mornings or weekdays are less crowded at museums. Check schedules for events at the cultural spaces.
Conclusion
The verdict? With culture, activities, and cuisines from all over the world packed into one borough, Queens makes for an awesome day escape from the city. No stressing about what to do. Follow this guide and soak up all the underrated gems.
If you’re visiting Queens Botanical Garden, you gotta know where to go eat, right? Luckily, some of NYC’s best food neighborhoods are just a quick ride away on the 7 train. We’re talking Flushing’s Chinatown, Jackson Heights, Forest Hills, Elmhurst…the list goes on. Queens is a foodie paradise, people!
In this guide, I’ll give you the lowdown on all the mouthwatering eats surrounding the Garden. We’ll hit up top restaurants, under-the-radar spots, food courts – you name it. Whether you just need a pre- or post-Garden bite or want to make a day of culinary adventures in Queens, you’ve got options for every taste and budget. Let’s do this!
About Queens Botanical Garden
Spanning 39 acres, Queens Botanical Garden has been an NYC tourist spot since 1939. With lush gardens, cool tree collections, and fun classes and events, it’s an urban oasis in the heart of Flushing.
Highlights include the pretty Cherry Circle filled with Yoshino cherry trees, the Fragrance Walk lined with roses and lilies, the elevated Queens Highline, and seasonal gardens like the Spring Bulb Garden. They also host concerts, art exhibits and family programs year-round.
The Garden has two places to grab a nibble:
Pine Tree Cafe: Casual spot under tall pines serving pizza, panini, salads
With all that walking around the gardens, you’ll probably get hungry! Good news – some of the city’s best eats are close by.
Awesome Eats in Flushing’s Chinatown
Restaurant in Chinatown in Queens NY
The number one food spot near the Garden is downtown Flushing. Also known as Flushing Chinatown, it has the biggest Chinese community in NYC. Just strolling along Main St and Roosevelt Ave, you’ll be smacked in the face with the smells of Chinese cooking. Dumplings, noodles, regional specialties – they’ve got it all here!
Some highlights:
Dumplings, Dumplings, Dumplings
Gotta start with the soup dumplings, aka xiao long bao. The spot for these is Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao. Their shrimp & pork soup dumplings are life changing. Other solid dumpling joints are Diverse Dim Sum and Dumpling Galaxy.
Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao in New York
Noodles and Rolls
Slurp hand-pulled noodles at Lam Zhou or try Cantonese shrimp rice rolls with soy sauce at Joe’s Steam Rice Roll. For spice, go for dan dan noodles at Spicy Village or Fu Run.
Chinese Regional Faves
Beyond just dumplings and noodles, get your hands on food from around China. Spicy Sichuan fare at Little Pepper, Cantonese roast meats at Big Wong Restaurant, authentic Taiwanese bites at Fishball Story. Yum!
Food Courts Galore
A restaurant inside Golden Mall in Queens
Don’t miss the massive food courts at Golden Shopping Mall and New World Mall. We’re talking stalls slinging everything from jianbing crepes to Xinjiang laghman noodles and malatang hot pots. Amazing choices here!
Cash only at many spots, fyi. But Flushing’s Chinatown is worth it for the amazing options!
Inside the New Word Mall food court
Other Tasty Neighborhoods Nearby
A quick 7 train ride takes you to even more dynamite food enclaves around Queens Botanical Garden.
Jackson Heights
This vibrant neighborhood has one of NYC’s Little Indias on 74th St. Eat masala dosas from street cart Dosa Delight or rich curries at Jackson Diner. Also Find Latin bites from Little Colombia, like arepas (stuffed corn cakes) at Arepa Lady.
Outdoor dinning at Jackson Heights
Forest Hills
Try out Jewish deli at Ben’s Best or get brick oven pizza at Nick’s Pizza in Forest Hills.
Elmhurst
Elmhurst’s got Thai rolled ice cream from Zabb Elee and Filipino fare like sisig at Krystal’s Cafe.
Corona
In Corona, hit up Leo’s Ceviche for Mexican seafood cocktails and Elias Corner for Greek classics like spanakopita.
So many cuisines, so little time! What are you in the mood for?
Top Brunch Spots Near the Garden
If you’re visiting Queens Botanical Garden on a weekend morning, you’ll need a solid brunch spot nearby. Let me spill the beans on some primo pre-Garden fuel-up options:
Win Son Bakery – Taiwanese-American spot for scallion pancakes, soup dumplings, noodle soups, and other scrumptious bites
Lao Wong Ping – Hole-in-the-wall Taiwanese joint famous for their fluffy scallion pancakes loaded with egg and crisp glass noodles
Tortas Neza – Tiny Mexican spot cooking up crazy sandwiches layered with carnitas, chorizo, cactus, and more on crusty rolls
Sweetleaf – Australian-style cafe serving avocado toast, creamy acai bowls, and other Instagrammable (but delish) morning fare
Don’t forget the coffee! Need your caffeine fix? Check out spots like Coffee Project NY, Sweetleaf, and Hungry Ghost Coffee nearby.
Desserts and Coffee in Queens
Desserts offered at Mochido
After all that savory goodness, you’ll need something sweet! For desserts like mochi donuts and chewy mochi ice cream, stop by Mochido. For über- Instagrammable sweet bubble waffles, hit up Fun Easy Snacks.
And for a lovely afternoon pick-me-up, check out Caffe Bene for Korean-style coffee and shaved ice.
The Takeaway
From Chinese banquets in Flushing to tacos in Corona, the neighborhoods around Queens Botanical Garden offer an amazing array of cuisines. No matter when you visit the Garden, you can find awesome food nearby to fuel your urban oasis adventures. Just hop on the 7 train and bon appétit!
Who would’ve thought that right in the middle of bustling Queens is a pretty amazing spot called the Queens Botanical Garden? This 39-acre oasis gives folks a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of New York City. Now I know some people might think a garden like this has been around forever, but it’s got a cool history that stretches back over 80 years!
Get this – the Queens Botanical Garden actually started out as part of the 1939 World’s Fair. Yep, it was one of the exhibits at the famous fair held in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. The garden stuck around after the fair and then moved to its current location for the next World’s Fair in 1964. Since then it’s grown a lot bigger, seen some tough times here and there, but eventually turned into the awesome place people love to visit today.
When you look at everything the Queens Botanical Garden has gone through since its World’s Fair days, it’s really neat to see how it transformed from a small exhibit to become such an important green space in NYC.
Founding of the Garden
The Queens Botanical Garden first opened its gates in 1939 as part of the “Gardens on Parade” exhibit for the New York World’s Fair. Located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park near the Flushing River, the original garden occupied a corner of the fair grounds that would later become the path of the Van Wyck Expressway.
Key figures who brought the botanical garden to life included the horticulture firm Hortus, Incorporated, which operated the Gardens on Parade attraction. The initial garden design and layout was handled by Gilmore D. Clarke and Michael Rapuano, landscape architects who also famously designed the overall 1939 World’s Fair grounds.
As a World’s Fair exhibit, the Queens Botanical Garden dazzled visitors with floral displays and educational exhibits about the plant world. After the fair’s conclusion, the gardens remained a popular oasis for relaxation and learning within Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. Little did visitors know the garden would soon outgrow its original home.
A photo of the world fair in New York in 1965
Relocation and Expansion
In preparation for the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair, also held in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the Queens Botanical Garden needed a new home. In 1963, the gardens were uprooted and moved east across College Point Boulevard to their present-day site.
The new botanical gardens occupied 35 acres of former marshland adjacent to the World’s Fair grounds. Construction commenced on a modern administration building, pedestrian bridge, and various gardens and tree plantings. Several original elements were preserved, including three Blue Atlas Cedar trees transplanted to the new entrance.
The Queens Botanical Garden’s relocation and expansion allowed it to blossom into a world-class institution. In partnership with the 1964 World’s Fair, the gardens continued their educational mission while introducing new attractions like a fragrance garden.
With the fair’s conclusion, the Queens Botanical Garden was poised to become an even greater community resource and refuge.
Evolution into a Community Hub
In the decades after its relocation, the Queens Botanical Garden evolved to better serve the diverse neighborhoods of Queens. By the 1970s, annual attendance reached 300,000 visitors as schools, seniors, gardeners and more enjoyed programming tailored to their interests.
New gardens sprouted up including a Children’s Garden, Herb Garden, and Victorian-style Wedding Garden. Outreach initiatives brought in youth volunteers and offered gardening therapy for those with disabilities. During times of city budget cuts, community members rallied to preserve funding for their beloved garden oasis.
As demographics shifted in the 1990s, the Queens Botanical Garden introduced multicultural programs like a Korean Garden to engage the borough’s Korean population. Workshops, cultural celebrations, and festivals made the gardens a dynamic gathering space.
With deep roots in the community, the Queens Botanical Garden had blossomed into an invaluable resource for recreation, education, and the conservation of nature within an urban environment.
Restoring the Hidden Creek
While the Queens Botanical Garden created beautiful above-ground landscapes, an hidden treasure still flowed beneath it. The original Kissena Creek once meandered through the site before being buried underground decades ago.
In 2001, the Queens Botanical Garden Society announced an ambitious $70 million master plan to day-light Kissena Creek and restore its natural path through the garden. This involved constructing a maze of wetlands, ponds and water features to allow rainfall to filter through plantings and bedrock before entering the sewer system.
By revealing the lost creek, the Queens Botanical Garden aimed to become a model of sustainable urban design through restoration ecology. The project provided habitat for aquatic species while educating visitors about water systems and the area’s natural history.
Recent Transformation
In 2007, the Queens Botanical Garden completed the first phase of its restoration with the opening of the Visitor & Administration Building. As the first Platinum LEED-certified green building in New York City, the center set a new standard for sustainable architecture.
Geothermal heating, on-site water treatment, and a green roof showcase cutting-edge green technology. An environmentally friendly parking lot and cleansing biotope also help the garden reduce its environmental footprint.
Recent years have seen expanded facilities like new greenhouses and outdoor classrooms. Public programs cover everything from orchid shows to farm workshops using produce from the garden’s one-acre educational farm.
Continued community backing, public funding, and private donations allow the Queens Botanical Garden to thrive as a world-class institution that still feels like a neighborhood treasure.
The Garden Today
Today the Queens Botanical Garden spans 39 acres filled with diverse natural landscapes. The Fragrance Walk delights visitors with flowers selected for their scent. A Bee Garden buzzes with pollinator-friendly plantings.Weddings and private events take place in the picturesque Wedding Garden.
The gardens’ lasting focus on conservation comes to life at the Compost Project demonstration site and one-acre farm. Workshops teach sustainable gardening methods to the next generation of urban farmers and gardeners.
Above all, the Queens Botanical Garden remains a peaceful oasis appreciated by its surrounding communities. Its roots run deep, from its founding at the 1939 World’s Fair to its rebirth through thoughtful ecological restoration.
While the borough and city around it continue to change, the Queens Botanical Garden stands strong as a living museum preserving nature’s beauty. It enriches the lives of all who wander its paths in search of inspiration.
Conclusion
It’s pretty cool to see how the Queens Botanical Garden started off as a little exhibit at the World’s Fair but became such an important part of the community. It definitely took some twists and turns over the years before turning into the urban oasis people love today.
No matter how much Queens changes around it, the botanical garden will be there as a peaceful spot for people to enjoy. It’s a hidden gem that will keep reinventing itself while giving folks a beautiful place to visit for generations to come. A little oasis in the middle of a busy city!
Brooklyn Bridge Park is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in New York City. With its beautiful greenery, amazing views of downtown Manhattan, and a ton of recreational activities, it’s no wonder why locals and tourists say this is a must see place. But did you know Brooklyn Bridge Park is also home to some of the best restaurants in NYC? From upscale dining hotspots to casual cafes and pizza joints, the areas surrounding Brooklyn Bridge Park offer an incredible diversity of cuisines and atmospheres to satisfy everyone.
Dining Near Brooklyn Bridge Park
Spanning 1.3 miles of Brooklyn’s waterfront from DUMBO to Vinegar Hill, Brooklyn Bridge Park is divided into 6 piers offering a ton of amenities like playgrounds, sports fields, gardens, and more. Fortunately, the dining options are just as amazing!
Most of the restaurants are just outside the park grounds, scattered around the northern piers in DUMBO and Fulton Ferry or down by Pier 6 near Cobble Hill. There’s also a lot of popular restaurants along Front Street facing the beautiful views of the Brooklyn Bridge and East River. From upscale seafood joints to casual burger spots, you’ll find a variety of places to choose from.
Now let’s check out our top 10 picks for the very best places to eat near Brooklyn Bridge Park!
1. The River Cafe
Located right under the Brooklyn Bridge along the waterfront,The River Cafejust might have the best location of any restaurant in New York City. With postcard-worthy views of downtown Manhattan across the water, this is hands down one of the most romantic restaurants near Brooklyn Bridge Park.
The River Cafe serves up contemporary American cuisine using the freshest seasonal ingredients. Some standouts on the menu include their homemade pastas, flawlessly cooked fish entrées, and Molten Chocolate Cake. With white tablecloths, flowers everywhere, and live piano music, it’s basically impossible not to feel special dining here.
A photo of the entrance to The River Cafe
2. Cecconi’s
For upscale Italian food overlooking the Manhattan skyline, check outCecconi’s. Tucked away on Water Street right by the carousel, this restaurant serves handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, seafood crudos, and more.
With both indoor and outdoor seating options, Cecconi’s is a great spot for a special date night or family gathering. Their warm, rustic-chic decor and bustling open kitchen also make it feel celebratory. Plus, they’ve got an excellent Italian wine list to complement the food.
Inside of Cecconi’s in NYC
3. Henry’s End
If you’re exploring the Brooklyn Heights area near the park’s northern piers, make sure to check out Henry’s End. This neighborhood bistro has been a local favorite for over 30 years thanks to its inviting vibe, stellar service, and seasonal American food.
Their menu changes often based on what’s fresh, but some staples include their pan-seared trout, herb-crusted lamb rack, and flourless chocolate cake. With its brick walls, candlelit wooden tables, and awesome regulars, Henry’s End really feels like the heart of the community.
A photo outside of Henry’s End restaurant
4. Urban Cove Society and Kitchen
For a more upscale dining experience down by Pier 6, check outUrban Cove Society and Kitchenat the 33 Hotel. Blending modern American and global flavors, their market-driven menu features shareable plates and craft cocktails with something for everyone.
Standouts include their tuna tartare tacos, truffle mushroom pizza, Korean fried chicken, and “Chocolate Obsession” dessert. With chic decor, great views of the Brooklyn Bridge, and an adjacent cocktail bar, this is a top choice for a fancy night out in the park area. Their prix fixe Sunday Jazz Brunch looks pretty amazing too!
Inside of Urban Cove Society and Kitchen
5. Elephant District
If you’re craving Thai food near the park, look no further than the new hotspotElephant Districtin DUMBO. Inspired by the street food markets of Bangkok, their menu is packed with vibrant flavors and fun twists on classics like Krapow Chicken, Drunken Noodles, Northern Thai Sausage, and more. Chef “Top” really knows how to coax the boldest flavors from every ingredient.
With colorful murals, hanging lanterns, and an airy ambiance, Elephant District brings all the electricity of Thailand’s capital to Brooklyn. This is Thai food done right—fresh, complex, and completely addicting. Just be prepared for some serious spice! But their craft Tiki cocktails definitely help cool things down.
Elephant District in Brooklyn, New York
6. Westville Dumbo
For delicious farm-to-table fare in a laid-back setting, check outWestville Dumbo. Tucked away on Washington Street, this airy eatery serves seasonal salads, sandwiches, grain bowls, coffees, and sweets sourced from local makers and growers.
Top picks include their kale Caesar salad, avocado toast, roasted veggie sandwich, and daily house-made gelatos. With rustic-chic decor, ample natural light, and friendly counter service, Westville is a great casual neighborhood spot to refuel between exploring the park.
7. Fornino Pier 6
You can’t visit Brooklyn Bridge Park without trying one of the awesome waterside eateries right in the park itself! On the upper level of Pier 6,Forninoserves up wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, sandwiches, salads, and Italian wine and beer.
Grab a table on their rooftop deck for incredible views of lower Manhattan across the water as you bite into the perfect crispy-chewy pie. The Meatball and Margherita pizzas are my personal faves, but you really can’t go wrong. Fornino is casual, family-friendly, and a must for any Brooklyn Bridge Park excursion.
Fornino at Pier 6 Brooklyn Bridge Park
8. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
What better way to end a day at the park than with a scoop (or two) of artisanal ice cream? Inside the historic Jane’s Carousel building,Van Leeuwenchurns out the most inventive and insanely delicious ice cream flavors in the city.
Their traditional options like Tahitian Vanilla are creamy perfection, but I highly recommend trying their rotating seasonal specials like Brown Sugar Churro or Sicilian Pistachio. They even offer vegan options! The lines often get long, but trust me, this ice cream is well worth the wait.
Inside of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream at Brooklyn Brige Park
9. Malibu Farm New York
For fresh and healthy eats right on the waterfront at Pier 17, stop byMalibu Farm New York. Inspired by the popular California original, this cafe serves grain bowls, toasts, salads, burgers, and more, largely plant-based and sourced from local markets.
Their menu has tons of options for vegan, gluten-free, and paleo diets, but still plenty of meat and cheese too. Chow down on a Lemon Ricotta Pancake Stack or Grilled Mahi Mahi Burger while soaking up the sunshine and ocean views on their pier-side patio. Malibu Farm is the perfect spot for a laid-back weekend brunch or lunch break from exploring downtown.
A photo of the dinning room at Malibu Farm New York
10. Neighbors Cafe at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Neighbors Cafe inside the trendy 1 Hotel near the park. This little lobby cafe is the perfect spot to refresh with some local java, down a cold-pressed juice, or grab a tasty bite on the go. I’m obsessed with their nut butter and jelly toasts when I need a quick breakfast before exploring the park. And their falafel wraps or rainbow bowls totally hit the spot for a light lunch between activities.
With its chill boho vibe, floor-to-ceiling views of the park, and yummy cookies, Neighbors Cafe is ideal for a caffeine fix, light snack, or impromptu picnic. Pop in, fill up on some good food, then head back out to enjoy the views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline while you finish your cookie. It’s the ideal way to keep your energy up while wandering around the area!
A photo inside of Neighbors Cafe at 1 Hotel
Notable Mention
If you want to venture outside of Brooklyn Bridge Park we highly recommend Sesamo in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, bringing a contemporary vibe to Italian cuisine just steps away. The owners’ diverse backgrounds shape the menu, blending Italian traditions with Asian flair.
Begin your meal with crispy arancini or homemade dumplings. Then try pasta like squid ink mafaldine paired with shrimp. Main courses feature creative takes on Italian cooking using Asian ingredients – think grilled branzino in a ginger soy glaze.
Conclusion
Well there you have it—our picks for the 10 best restaurants and eateries near Brooklyn Bridge Park! From romantic date night spots to casual family-friendly cafes, you’ll find awesome food options no matter which piers or areas of the park you’re exploring. Just don’t forget to walk off all that deliciousness on the gorgeous park paths and piers before or after your meal!
