With a mix-up of ruinous rain and sunny sweetness putting our poor wardrobes to the test, we're pleased that Mother Nature seems to taking some pity on us this weekend. To take advantage of our stroke of good weather, we've scoured the city to find you the best restaurants to dine al fresco and show off your new spring dress. Whether you're into boozy Euro brunches, a moonlit romantic rendezvous, or hipster hideouts, we've got the skinny on five fresh joints that will make you never want to eat under a roof again.
1. Charles: We've been fans of Charles since its soft opening. Who could forget the papered-over windows and lack of sign that made this the perfect spot to make you feel like an insider? Just in time for those stronger rays, they're transforming the space into a summer solace--opening up the glass doors to give you a front row on all that West Village action while munching on Ricotta pancakes or Lobster BLTs.
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Local Love: Enjoy a free cocktail with the purchase of any entrée during this weekend's brunch. Just say you read it here, and you've got the booze.
Charles, 234 West 4th Street (corner of West 4th and West 10th streets); 212-206-1208.
2. Juliette: What's a Bedford Avenue crawl without a visit to this Brooklyn must-stop? With some insanely delish eats from Chef Michael Clancy (think Pinot Lamb Burgers, a special Niçoise salad made with Marinated Anchovies, and Japanese Mizuna with oyster mushrooms), a guaranteed post-dinner food coma is going to be worth every calorie.
Local Love: This weekend, with the purchase of an entrée in the downstairs restaurant, every one of y'all will get a free post-meal mimosa or bloody mary to enjoy on their groovy roof deck . That's one bird's eye of the 'burg you don't wanna miss out on. Just show a copy of your email (on your phone will do, too) to get your drink on!
Juliette, 135 North 5th Street (between Bedford and Berry streets); Brooklyn; 718-388-9222.
Juliette, 135 North 5th Street (between Bedford and Berry streets); Brooklyn; 718-388-9222.
3. I Tre Merli: While Russian oligarchs just love St. Tropez, we think they'd be right at home at this notorious weekly brunch, Day & Night, run by the hottest twins in the biz--Derek and Daniel Koch (formerly the cuties at Le Bilboquet). While food is a little bit of an afterthought, we really don't mind--jeroboams of pink champers, pumping house music, and stiletto dancing on the tables makes this breezy SoHo joint just the ticket to Ibiza we need.
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Local Love: This brunch is pretty much invitation-only, but don't worry, we've got you covered for the weekend. We're giving you the reservation number, xxx don't forget to mention to Matt, the friendly doorman, that you're there with R29, and you'll be whisked right in.
I Tre Merli, 463 West Broadway (between Prince and West Houston streets); 212-254-8699.
I Tre Merli, 463 West Broadway (between Prince and West Houston streets); 212-254-8699.
4. Marc Forgione: Mere steps from our Tribeca office, this Michelin-star resto is picture-perfect for some serious romancing. We recommend you stop by for dinner, with greenmarket offerings like Suzuki Sea Bass, Kona Kampachi Tartare, and Pumpkin cheesecake; you'll never want your date to end.
Local Love: Marc Forgione is offering complimentary spring cocktails for all of our readers this weekend with the purchase of an entrée. Some of the new concoctions include Rhubarb Mimosas, Black Currant Sangrias, and Mango Mint Mezacals. Just mention R29 when you order.
Marc Forgione, 134 Reade Street (between Greenwich and Hudson streets); 212-941-9401.
Marc Forgione, 134 Reade Street (between Greenwich and Hudson streets); 212-941-9401.
5. Isabella's: We've taken the 'rents here many a time, and trust, this UWS institution never goes out of style. The outdoor dining area and the airy bi-level dining room is spot-on spring dining for a civilized brunch or a darling dinner. We especially recommend some afternoon post shopping indulgence with their dark chocolate "bag" filled with Fresh Raspberry Mousse and seasonal berries graced topped off with a dollop of Fresh Whipped Cream.
Local Love: Isabella's is satisfying your sweet tooth--all this weekend readers will get a complimentary dessert with purchase of entrée.
Isabella's, 359 Columbus Avenue, (at 77th Street); 212-724-2100.
Isabella's, 359 Columbus Avenue, (at 77th Street); 212-724-2100.
R29 GIVEAWAY:
Win a free bottle of wine this weekend at Charles restaurant for the brand new Sunday night dinner. Featuring hearty faves like Linguine Alle Vongole and Beef Braciole, this is one competition you don't wanna pass up. Comment on this story with your all-time-favorite meal and we'll pick the entry that makes our taste buds tingle.