A summer without time spent by sea may not feel like a summer at all. A beach can do the trick, but visions of sailing through a sea breeze heightens the experience. That may be out of reach for many, but New York City boat restaurants are the perfect alternative. Hop aboard four popular ones that attract a crowd all summer long.
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The Brooklyn Barge
image: facebook.com/thebrooklynbarge
Enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline from this old floating barge in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Opened for business in 2015, the Brooklyn Barge has simple décor with tables made from cable spools and a curved bar offering specialty cocktails, wines, ciders and three options for beer drinkers—bottle, can or draft. Food options include sandwiches, tacos and small plates like the tugboat nachos made with cheddar sauce and pickled jalapeños or dockside guacamole with homemade tortilla chips. Customers have described the Brooklyn Barge as a hidden gem that’s perfect for a laid-back day by the water. Phone: 929-337-7212 | Address: 3 Milton St., Brooklyn Click to go
Frying Pan
image: facebook.com/thefryingpannyc
This red Coast Guard lightship, docked at Pier 66 within Hudson River Park from May to October, has a storied history. Built in 1929, the lightship was abandoned for 10 years before sinking in the Wicomico River in the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland for three years. It was eventually saved and sailed to New York City in 1989, becoming a hotspot once the warm weather comes around. Hop aboard the bustling spot for dinner that ranges from seafood to burgers and desserts. Or sip one of the eight cocktails “created for a day on the water.” And no matter what time of day, there’s sure to be a crowd. Phone: 212-989-6363 | Address: 207 12th Avenue, Manhattan Click to go
North River Lobster Company
image: facebook.com/northriverlobstercompany
Located at Pier 81 on the Hudson River, the North River Lobster Company describes itself as “the largest floating lobster shack in NYC.” The three-floor boat is a casual place to sip and dine while enjoying Manhattan’s skyline. The seafood-focused menu features Long Island Little Neck clams, chilled North Atlantic lobster, oysters and New England clam chowder. Pair the grub with wine, sangria or cocktails like the Watermelon Mule made with Absolut Wild Tea, watermelon, Ginger Brew and lime or the Life Saver made with Stoli Peach Vodka, Triple Sec, orange, pineapple and cherry. The best part of this place? The North River Lobster Company also takes diners on mini cruises in the Hudson up to four times daily for only $10. Phone: 212-630-8831 | Address: 12th Ave & W 41st St., Manhattan Click to go
Grand Banks
image: facebook.com/grandbanksnyc
For those who love oysters and sitting waterfront, this historic wooden schooner known as Sherman Zwicker is the place to be this summer. Hand-built in 1942, Sherman Zwicker was part of the Grand Banks fleet that fished throughout the North Atlantic. It’s made of heavy timbers and drips with elegance on Pier 25. Order a nautical inspired cocktail, summery wine or champagne from the circular wooden bar in the center of the ship. And pair a drink with the oyster selection, which changes daily, or the seasonal fare and brunch that is also served. Phone: 212-660-6312 | Address: Hudson River Park, Pier 25, Manhattan Click to go