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Best Outdoor Dining Oasis Restaurants in Long Island City-Hunters Point

8 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: February 2026

Our Top Pick
R40
Wood-fired Argentinian grilling with a Michelin Guide-listed profile.

Notable Picks

8.3
$$$ Long Island City-Hunters Point Steakhouse
An Argentinian parilla with smoke-forward grilling and a menu that shines when you order for contrast—one beef cut, one seafood or vegetable plate, and a shareable starter to set the pace. It’s a strong pick for steakhouse-style dining that feels modern and intentional, especially if you lean into the wood-grilled specialties rather than over-ordering sides.
Must-Try Dishes: Empanadas, Skirt steak from the parilla, Parrillada-style mixed grill
What makes it special: Wood-fired Argentinian grilling with a Michelin Guide-listed profile.
$$$ Long Island City-Hunters Point Ice Cream
A waterfront café that delivers classic Italian gelato with enough flavor range to keep repeat visits interesting. Best used as a walk-and-reward stop—pick two complementary scoops (one nutty, one chocolate or fruit) and keep the order clean and focused.
Must-Try Dishes: Pistachio gelato, Gianduia gelato, Affogato (espresso over gelato)
What makes it special: Italian gelato done with proper texture and balance.
$$$ Long Island City-Hunters Point Burgers
A waterfront New American dining room where the burger is treated like a composed entrée—dry-aged beef, a rich topping strategy, and fries that arrive like they belong on the menu year-round. It’s best when you want a burger that still feels like a full night out, not a quick counter stop.
Must-Try Dishes: Dry-Aged Burger, American Smashburger, Raw Bar Selection
What makes it special: Dry-aged burger execution in a waterfront, full-service setting.
8.2
$$ Long Island City-Hunters Point Italian, Pizza
A pizza-forward Italian spot with big ceilings, a full bar, and a backyard that makes it feel like a neighborhood hangout with room to breathe. The move is to treat it as a pizza-and-a-few-plates night, leaning into the pies and letting the bar carry the pacing.
Must-Try Dishes: Neapolitan-style pizza, Pesto pasta, Panna cotta
What makes it special: Pizza-first Italian with a big bar and a standout backyard space.
$$$ Long Island City-Hunters Point Italian
An old-school Southern Italian room that feels built for celebrations, with a backyard setup that shines in warm weather. The menu sticks to comforting classics—pastas, gnocchi, and gelato—served in a way that favors lingering over rushing.
Must-Try Dishes: Gnocchi, Pasta specials, Gelato
What makes it special: Old-school Italian hospitality with a backyard built for gatherings.
$$$ Long Island City-Hunters Point American
A burger-and-beer anchor with a casual, retro-leaning room and the kind of energy that works for a low-effort night out. It’s strongest when you keep the order simple: one signature burger, one side, and a drink that fits the moment.
Must-Try Dishes: The SWAYZE burger, The WANDA burger, Fries
What makes it special: Burgers-first comfort food with a social bar energy.

Worthy Picks

$ Long Island City-Hunters Point
A true outdoor-first waterfront hang where the point is open air, skyline views, and a casual grill menu that keeps the day moving. It’s best when you treat it like a daytime patio session—food as fuel, atmosphere as the headline.
Must-Try Dishes: Hamburger, Hot dog, Fries
What makes it special: A waterfront, open-air setup that feels like a summer event space.
$$ Long Island City-Hunters Point
A neighborhood brewery built for groups, long chats, and dogs posted up beside the table—covered outdoor seating makes it especially practical. Beer is the point, and the flexible ‘bring food’ setup makes it a strong basecamp for a low-pressure night.
Must-Try Dishes: IPA flight, Light lager pour, Seasonal draft special
What makes it special: Covered outdoor seating and a dog-welcoming culture that makes long hangs easy.