Best Outdoor Dining Oasis Restaurants in Upper East Side-Lenox Hill-Roosevelt Island
2 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
The Jeffrey Craft Beer & Bites
A craft beer hub where the pho tacos and happy hour compete with the tap list.
Notable Picks
Under the Queensboro Bridge, The Jeffrey is a craft beer bar with a serious kitchen, where the cult-favorite pho tacos sit alongside one of Midtown East’s best happy hour lineups. The split indoor–outdoor setup makes it a go-to for after-work pints, elevated bar snacks, and casual taco runs that feel more beer garden than taqueria.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho Tacos, Jeffrey Smash Burger, Chili Cheese Fries
What makes it special: A craft beer hub where the pho tacos and happy hour compete with the tap list.
Worthy Picks
#2
Mezzaluna
7.8
A longtime neighborhood Italian trattoria with classic baked lasagna and hearty, old‑school pasta offerings in a casual, family‑friendly setting. Portions are generous and the comfort‑food focus makes it a reliable choice for familiar Italian favorites. Reviews note that some dishes vary in execution, but the lasagna remains a recognizable classic.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lasagne Alla Bolognese, Vegetable Lasagna, Eggplant Parmigiana
What makes it special: Generous portions of classic Italian comfort dishes like meat and vegetable lasagna