As much as we're refusing to acknowledge the fact, final days of summer are here, so we're soaking up the warm weather in any way possible. Aside from time spent at the pool, on the beach, and in our backyard with friend, an easy to relish the outdoors and show local Bergen County spots some love is by visiting some of our favorite restaurants that have outdoor dining. After all, there's something about eating al fresco while sipping a refreshing drink that makes us feel like summer is eternal.
But since it's not, grab your crew and book your reservation at one of these top spots with delicious eats and an attractive outdoor space to please all the senses. And bonus! If you sign up to become a Bergen Mama Insider can even save on your #eeeats.
Brasserie MémèreIf you weren't able to get away this summer, you transport yourself — at least for a couple of hours — with a visit to the French-inspired spot. The menu includes many traditional French favorites like Steak Frites, which you can enjoy alongside a summery cocktail like the Pink Summer Crush with watermelon and mint. But the pièce de résistance is Brasserie Mémère's outdoor patio space, which, is a permanent fixture at the restaurant for open, airy feel that's much less makeshift than other outdoor pop-ups. It has plenty of seating and greeney decor to make your day or night out feel like a temporary vacay.
107 Vervalen Street, Closter
Concourse ClubIf you haven't visited Bergen County's top rooftop yet, the transitional days of summer to fall are an ideal time. The expansive outdoor space has plenty of tables and comfy couches to accommodate your small or large group, but combined with its tasty cocktail and liquor menu, you may spend more time up on your feet dancing under the lights than you will sitting. As for small bites, the menu is meant for sharing dishes like General Tso Cauliflower or Smoked Cheddar Beef Sliders. The good news is that even when the weather starts to cool, there are plenty of outdoor heaters to keep you warm.
379 NJ-17 S, Woodridge
KantinaWhile the weather is still on our side, grab a table on the outdoor patio of this Sparkill, NY restaurant that serves up Asian-inspired dishes, with a twist. The Takos menu includes Avocado Kimchi and Hibachi Chicken, with additional, shareable menu items that can be enjoyed in the casual outdoor space. They'll roll out the space heaters when the weather starts to cool, but the absolutely fire food and drink menu (think: Paradise Punch with ghost pepper tequila blanco) is sure to keep you cozy from the inside out.
4 Depot Square, Sparkill
Pier 115If impressive scenery is what you're after, it doesn't get more beautiful than Edgewater's on-the-river restos, and Pier 115 is no exception. Located along the Hudson River, this waterfront dining experience has savory bites that match its views. Choose an innovative roll from its sushi menu, an fresh fish entree like Linguine Di Mare or Pan Seared Salmon, and don't miss out on mouthwatering starters like Fried Goat Cheese & Beets. Eating on the pier offers tables for dinner, oversized couches for lounging, and an easy way to enjoy the final days of summer.
115 River Road, Edgewater
Rosa MexicanoFor a reliable Mexican restaurant that features all of your favorite dishes, head to Bergen County's Rosa Mexicano situated next to The Shops at Riverside in Hackensack. Find go-tos like cheesy empanadas, fresh tacos, mixed grill and more, and be sure to wash it all down with one of their tasty and refreshing frozen margaritas or sangria. You can dine outside, where their modest but spacious patio has four-seater tables to enjoy your fare — and the company.
60 Riverside Square Mall, Hackensack
Elia MediterraneanDining outside at Elia means surrounding yourself with floral, vibrant white decor on their patio, aka, their "Grecian Paradise." With dining tables, lounging benches, and more, you can easily make yourself comfortable as you enjoy dishes like Greek Crispy Meatballs, Domestic Lamb Chops, and Faroe Island Salmon. You'll savor every bite as you savor every minute in this picturesque space that's open weather-dependent.
