Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Go by yourself or bring the whole crew. This Gowanus staple, with outdoor picnic table–style seating lets you choose your own combination plate — pulled pork, ribs, brisket, pork belly, and more — along with a few sides and cornbread, or you can order up a family-style platter that’s enough grub to feed six hungry people. If you’re not much into mixing and matching, there are plenty of other barbecue staples to choose from, like the pulled pork sandwiches or a good ol’ fashioned burger.
Monte’s
The dining room at Monte’s is cozy and comfortable, but the real treat is taking advantage of the patio seating available during the warm-weather months. On the menu is a selection of fresh, delectable Italian dishes. The pillowy wood oven-baked gnocchi are a must-try, as are the ricotta-stuffed ravioli drizzled with truffle oil. There are also nearly two dozen varieties of pizza on the menu, including two dessert pies made with Nutella.
Lavender Lake
Come for the outdoor patio seating and the no-frills, casual atmosphere. Stay for the happy hour drink and food specials. The food menu may be limited, but the prices and ambiance can’t be beat. Nibble on smoky, lemony, crispy chickpeas to start, and then dive into the grilled chicken sandwich, made even more decadent with the addition of prosciutto. Outside the happy hour menu, you’ll find fresh salads, tacos, and even a double-decker house burger.
Pig Beach
Contrary to what the name may lead you to believe, there is nary a sandy expanse to be seen here. What you will find, though, are shaded picnic tables set up for you to sit at as you tear into some succulent barbecue eats. You can order up red hot sausage, smoked brisket, pork shoulder, and baby back ribs, plus all the standard sides you’d expect, like baked beans, mac ‘n cheese, and coleslaw. Save room at the end for a buckeye treat (peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate).
Buttermilk Channel
Technically this one is in Carroll Gardens, but just next door to Gowanus, barely over the border. Swing by on the weekends for an outdoor brunch feast. Kick off the meal with a spicy bloody mary or a crisp mimosa. Then for the main show, there’s warm lamb salad with a soft-boiled egg; hash made with short ribs, served with sunny-side eggs and toast; or pecan pie french toast topped with molasses. It’s the perfect way to kick off any leisurely weekend day.
The weather is only getting better these days, so it’s the perfect time to take advantage of these amazing outdoor dining spots in Gowanus near our luxury 363 Bond Street apartments. Happy eating!