Flushing, Queens, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and what better way to enjoy it than al fresco? Whether you're craving authentic Chinese cuisine, delicious Italian, or something completely different, Flushing offers a fantastic selection of restaurants with delightful outdoor seating. This guide highlights 15 of the best outdoor dining experiences Flushing has to offer. We'll explore diverse cuisines, ambiance, and what makes each location special, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your next outdoor meal.
Finding Your Perfect Flushing Outdoor Dining Experience
Choosing the right restaurant for outdoor dining depends heavily on your preferences. Consider these factors when making your selection:
- Cuisine: Flushing offers a truly global culinary landscape. Do you want authentic Chinese, Italian, Korean, Japanese, or something else entirely?
- Ambiance: Are you looking for a romantic setting, a lively atmosphere, or a family-friendly environment? Some restaurants offer quiet courtyards, while others boast bustling street-side patios.
- Budget: Flushing's dining scene caters to various budgets, from casual eateries to upscale establishments.
- Location: Flushing is a sprawling neighborhood. Consider the location's proximity to other attractions or your transportation method.
Top 15 Outdoor Dining Spots in Flushing, NY
This list isn't exhaustive, but it provides a great starting point for your outdoor dining adventure in Flushing. We've categorized them for easier browsing:
Authentic Chinese Cuisine:
- New World Mall Food Court: While not a single restaurant, the outdoor seating areas surrounding the New World Mall food court provide a unique Flushing experience. You can sample a wide variety of Chinese dishes from numerous vendors and enjoy them in the open air. This offers incredible value and a taste of diverse regional cuisines.
- Xi'an Famous Foods (multiple locations): Known for their hand-ripped noodles and spicy cumin lamb dishes, Xi'an Famous Foods has outdoor seating at select locations in Flushing. This is a perfect choice for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Beyond Chinese:
- Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream: While not a full meal, Van Leeuwen offers delightful outdoor seating where you can enjoy their unique and creative ice cream flavors. This is a great option for a light dessert or a refreshing treat on a hot day.
- Arepera Guacuco: This Venezuelan restaurant serves delicious arepas, alongside other traditional Venezuelan dishes. Their outdoor space offers a taste of Latin American vibrancy.
- Taverna Kyclades: This Greek restaurant provides a taste of the Mediterranean with its outdoor seating area. Expect fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Upscale Options:
- Marea: If you're looking for a more upscale outdoor dining experience, Marea offers an elegant setting and a refined Italian menu. The outdoor patio is sophisticated and perfect for special occasions.
Casual & Lively:
- Joe's Shanghai (multiple locations): Famous for their soup dumplings, Joe's Shanghai often has outdoor seating, providing a casual yet satisfying dining experience.
- Spicy & Tasty: This popular spot for Sichuan cuisine sometimes has limited outdoor seating, but it's worth checking for availability. Be warned, the food lives up to its name!
- Yummy House: This popular Flushing dim sum restaurant sometimes offers limited outdoor seating, providing a more relaxed alternative to the bustling indoor dining area.
Hidden Gems:
- Beecher's Handmade Cheese: While known for their cheese, Beecher's also has a pleasant outdoor space where you can enjoy cheese, bread, and other light bites. Perfect for a casual lunch or snack.
- Laobian Dumpling: A hidden gem offering delicious and affordable dumplings. They often have outdoor seating available on nice days.
Further Exploration:
For a more complete picture, consider using online restaurant review sites like Yelp or Google Maps to discover even more outdoor dining options in Flushing. Many smaller, local eateries may offer outdoor seating that isn't widely publicized.
Tips for Outdoor Dining in Flushing:
- Check for availability: Always call ahead to check if outdoor seating is available, especially during peak hours or weekends.
- Dress appropriately: Flushing's weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers to be prepared for any temperature changes.
- Consider the time of day: Some restaurants may have better outdoor seating during certain times of the day.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Flushing is a busy neighborhood, so be mindful of your belongings.
Conclusion: Your Flushing Outdoor Dining Adventure Awaits!
Flushing offers an incredibly diverse range of outdoor dining experiences. Whether you're searching for authentic Chinese cuisine, a taste of the Mediterranean, or something completely different, you're sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy a delightful al fresco meal. This list serves as a jumping-off point—explore, discover, and enjoy the vibrant outdoor dining scene in Flushing, NYC!
