As the seasons change and we begin to enter the cooler months there’s just one thing we’re not ready to give up: dining and imbibing al fresco.
Borrowed from Italians, the phrase “al fresco” means “in the cool air,” and while cool air can be refreshing, having a fire pit or outdoor fireplace nearby makes the outdoor experience all the cozier.
Here are our five picks for venues across the North Fork offering outdoor warmth.
Hellenic Restaurant, East Marion
This long-standing Greek restaurant has plenty of options when it comes to dining with both indoor and outdoor seating, but it’s the outside fire pit tables that are calling our name. Cozy up to one of three glass-surrounded fire pits and enjoy some of the North Fork’s best Greek cuisine.
Hellenic Restaurant is located at 5145 Main Road, East Marion
American Beech, Greenport
Nestled in Stirling Square, American Beech is a must-visit spot if you’re looking to lounge fireside while enjoying the fall weather. Order a cocktail and snag one of the outdoor sofas near the wood-burning fireplace. But we must warn you: you may never want to leave.
American Beech is located at 300 Main Street, Greenport
Woodside Orchards Tasting Room, Aquebogue
Nothing says fall like hard cider and a fire pit and the tasting room at Woodside Orchards provides just that, oh and delicious treats like donuts, too. Grab a flight or pint and head to the backyard where you’ll find wood-burning fire pits surrounded by Adirondack chairs.
Woodside Orchards‘ tasting room is located at 729 Main Road, Aquebogue
Farm Country Kitchen, Riverhead
Set in a late 1800s colonial home, Farm Country Kitchen is known for serving up some amazing seasonal farm-to-table food. Although the cuisine is reason alone to dine here, the eatery’s property also boasts multiple fire pits overlooking the Old Peconic River. Enjoy a glass of wine and take in the views before you make your way inside.
Farm Country Kitchen is located at 513 W Main Street, Riverhead
Bistro 72 at Hotel Indigo, Riverhead
The back patio at Bistro 72 is a hidden gem. With a giant fireplace and modern heat lamps, you’ll keep toasty warm far into November. The restaurant hosts events throughout the year and their next, set for November 7th, is a Kick the Keg party featuring Greenport Harbor Brewing Co. that includes tastings and live music.
Bistro 72 at Hotel Indigo is located at 1830 W Main Street, Riverhead
