615369 Mon Apr 27 11:35:06 -0700 2009 5 18 Manhattan 0 4632868 With the arrival of the spring, what are the best restaurants in the city that have al fresco dining? Mon Apr 27 11:35:06 -0700 2009 259487 anonymousfoodperson 1 4632893 You can check the Zagat for a listing of restaurants that offer al fresco dining. But if you want some specific recs, you need to provide the particulars of what you a looking for. Garden, terrace, or sidewalk? Neighborhood(s)? Cuisine preferences? Casual or fancy? Per person budget for food only (drinks, tax & tip additional)? Mon Apr 27 11:42:45 -0700 2009 4632868 13867 RGR 2 4632944 Thanks, good point. I was thinking downtown generally, all types of cuisines are ok. Sidewalks are acceptable as long as the street isn't deluged with car traffic, but terrace and garden are probably better. Semi-fancy, definitely not looking for a cafe/lunch sort of place. Does anyone have any favorites to share? Mon Apr 27 11:58:15 -0700 2009 4632893 259487 anonymousfoodperson 3 4632986 I don't know how far downtown you want to go, but just last night we had dinner at I Trulli, on 27th St., b/t Lex & PAS. The garden is lovely, and the homemade pastas are seriously delicious. http://www.itrulli.com Gascogne, on 8th Av., b/t 17th & 18th Sts., is one of our favorite French bistros. Excellent food, and the garden is one of the most charming in the city. http://www.gascognenyc.com I Coppi, on 9th St., b/t A & 1st, serves nicely-prepared Italian food and has a very attractive garden. http://www.icoppinyc.com It's in midtown, but Convivio, on Tudor City Pl., b/t 42nd & 43rd Sts., serves top-notch Italian cuisine, and there is a tiny, romantic terrace overlooking the park across the street. http://www.convivionyc.com Mon Apr 27 12:12:03 -0700 2009 4632944 13867 RGR 4 4632996 Thanks so much, these sound great. Mon Apr 27 12:14:26 -0700 2009 4632986 259487 anonymousfoodperson 2 4632968 Amen RGR!!! :) www.thelunchbelle.com Mon Apr 27 12:04:56 -0700 2009 4632893 110996 LeahBaila