Thanks everyone for the suggestions and kind words... I really appreciate it. Can't wait to try these spots and grab a beer at Lincoln Park.

Hi Chowhounders!

I am about to start Law School at Fordham near Columbus Circle. I've never been a west side guy and am completely lost as to what my food options are. I will be poor and need semi-cheap options, but otherwise I like all kinds of food. Does anyone have any ideas for me?

My favorites are University Pita (12th and University) and Saigon Grill (11th and University). Both are inexpensive and very very tasty.

Yeah it is amazing how loud Baci is... literally need to shout at your table.

Love the beet gnocci though!

Thanks guys!

Updated list:

Fette Sau (patio area)
Dressler (sidewalk)
Marlow & Son (sidewalk)
Aurora (garden)
Diner (sidewalk)
Baci & Abracci (garden)
Fiore (garden)
Sweet Water (garden)
PT (garden)
Dumont (garden)
Bonita
Vera Cruz
Il Fornino
Juliette (upstairs patio)

Any others?

I just read that DOC wine bar has outdoor seating? Has anyone tried this?

Thanks so much, these sound great.

Thank you Malibu! Had no idea all those places offered outdoor dining.

Thanks, good point.

I was thinking downtown generally, all types of cuisines are ok. Sidewalks are acceptable as long as the street isn't deluged with car traffic, but terrace and garden are probably better. Semi-fancy, definitely not looking for a cafe/lunch sort of place.

Does anyone have any favorites to share?

With the arrival of the spring, what are the best restaurants in the city that have al fresco dining?

Hi everyone,

I've lived in Wburg for about 6 months now and have been loving the food scene. I haven't been here for warm weather, however, and I love to eat outdoors. What are good spots that have outdoor dining here?

My list so far:
Fette Sau (amazing)
Lodge (haven't been but walk by)

Hey everyone -- Got a dinner and a movie tonight in Chelsea (theatre is on 23rd and 8th). I searched the board and got a couple suggestions (specifically Red Cat and O Mai). Does anyone have any other ideas? All types of food (sans sushi) would work, and price is not a huge concern. Thank you!

I asked the owner at the West Side location the other day and he said it's never reopening. I was crushed.

Chimu is quite good.

Ok fair enough... it definitely did cut me a little =) I guess I'm just so happy that there's a banh mi spot near my work...

The bread is absolutely NOT poor. It's made in-house and it's quite fresh and crispy. A cut on the top of your mouth is no excuse for switching to gross, soggy bread.

Il Bagatto's was absolutely superb, though I only had it once. It was on the special list when I went... does anyone know if it is a standard special or how often it is available there?