Best Outdoor Dining Spots in Englewood

With summer in full swing now that local schools are finished for the year, we wanted to introduce (or reintroduce) you to the great outdoor dining options in Englewood. Nothing beats a great dining experience outside with family and friends. Here are five spots with great food, but more importantly, great outdoor space for you to enjoy.

Blue Moon Mexican Cafe
https://www.bluemoonmexicancafe.com/
Nothing says summer like a cold cerveza or frozen margarita. Both are always available at this Englewood institution. Located right in the heart of Englewood on Palisades Avenue, Blue Moon features an extensive list of classic Mexican cuisines with an ample supply of cold adult beverages to wash it all down. Well known for their giant burritos, Blue Moon offers many more great dishes - their nachos and guacamole are both spectacular. Great happy hour specials every night and on certain occasions live music. Although seating can be tight, the outdoor space is great for anyone looking to relax and enjoy some fresh air. Great space to grab dinner with the family, have a drink with a friend or just sit alone and people watch with a cold drink in your hand. Open for both lunch and dinner, Blue Moon Mexican Restaurant is must try spot this summer.

The Brownstone Pancake Factory
http://www.brownstonepancakefactory.com/
Brownstone Pancake Factory is THE place for breakfast. While technically Englewood Cliffs, it is worth the drive. Featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives restaurateur Bobby Bournais and wife Vanessa Deleon brings casual dining to whole different level with over-the-top pancakes and milkshakes. Those looking for other options, don’t worry, they have an extensive menu that includes egg dishes, acai bowls, salads, great sandwiches (try the tuna melt, but bring a friend because it is massive) and burgers. A nice little outdoor patio adjacent to the entrance with limited seating is a great option for those weekend mornings. Get there early, as this hotspot can get busy. Boasting a new location on the corner of E. Palisades Ave. and Rt 9W the Brownstone Pancake Factory is an absolute must.

Sophia
https://www.sofiaenglewood.com/
For those looking for more of an upscale fare, check out Sophia located at 36 Engle Street. Unbeknownst to many, they have an amazing indoor-outdoor patio space with a retractable roof that enables them to operate year round. Featured in Forbes magazine as one of the top 5 restaurants to leave the city for, this upscale Italian-Farm to table steakhouse boasts an impressive array of steaks, seafood, poultry and pastas. Equally impressive, their extensive wine list, great craft beers and top shelf collection of spirits. Add in the cigar room located downstairs and you pretty much have everything covered. Make sure you call ahead for a reservation as this trendy hotspot gets crowded at night.

Syros Taverna
http://syrostaverna.com/
Also on the upscale side, Syros Taverna is a hidden gem located in downtown Englewood featuring a large menu of authentic greek cuisine sprinkled with a little western influence. Plenty of space outside on the sidewalk for people to enjoy their amazing dishes. The service is great and the menu includes an assortment of greek spreads, a wonderful selection of fish, salads, pastas, meats and traditional greek side dishes. One caveat, they do not have a liquor license, so BYOB if you plan on having a drink with your meal. Make sure you arrive early or make a reservation, it can get crowded at night.

Biddy O’Malley’s
http://www.biddyomalleys.com/
Everybody needs a place to go where they know your name. Look no further than Biddy O’Malley’s on 36 N. Van Brunt St. With its fair share of regulars don’t be surprised when the bartender knows many guests on a first name basis. Voted as a top 15 burger by (201) Magazine this Irish Gastropub offers a diverse, but delicious menu of items. An extensive beer list, with Guinness on tap of course, and other fine spirits to deliver a fantastic dining experience. While the space outside is small, it is normally quiet and peaceful. Off the main strip of Palisades Avenue it is a little more quiet and quaint. Right next to Bergen Pac, Biddy’s is a hotspot before and after performances. To really take advantage of the peaceful outdoor space, try and avoid these nights.

Photo by James DeMers