Here comes the warm weather! And with that comes awesome outdoor dates. Some dating experts say that lunch is always best for a 1st date because its very casual and either party doesn't feel pressure to stay for a drawn out meeting. I disagree, dates in the middle of the day are weak, you have to put a little thrill and a challenge in your 1st meeting. My suggestion is a casual drink, but it can't be at a random bar or somewhere too loud where you cant hear each other. After all dating is about getting to know someone and have fun. However it also has to be a place where if you wish, you can hang for a long time and enjoy each others company. That's right, you guessed it, Beer Gardens! The perfect combination of, "I'm not trying to hard" but "I'm still awesome because I brought you here". Here are a few suggestions, some close and some far.
Queens Beer Gardens
Studio Square (Astoria)
Sometimes referred to as the new Beer Garden of Queens, Studio Square offers a wide range of beers on tap, as well as Sangria, & Mojito on tap, available by the glass or pitcher. They offer a great American/German menu from Angus Burgers to Bratwurst. They have a huge outdoor patio with picnic tables as far as the eye can see and an indoor version of their patio if the weather is not in your favor. It can get a little crowded on the weekends so if quiet is what your looking for then this isn't your place but it does bring the excitement of a hip urban space. The do occasionally have live entertainment and karaoke during the week. Check the website for more details.
Bohemian Hall (Astoria)
If you are more into a rustic scene, the Bohemian Hall Beer Garden (some refer to it as the original beer garden of Queens) is for you. This Beer Garden has a more old school feel with a more lengthy Beer list and more traditional German dishes. I understand they just celebrated their 100 year anniversary and the oldest beer garden in NYC. The crowd here is a little more chill then Studio Square.
Brooklyn Beer Gardens
Berry Park (Williamsburg)
Looking for a view of the city, then Berry Park is your place for you! They do have an indoor area on the first floor but the draw of this place is the rooftop floor that gives you some great views of the city from a far. Take your date here around 7pm right around sundown to take advantage of the scenery. This is one of those places that is just perfect for a date because chances are she's never been there before and thats what we're trying to do, give her a different experience on your date that separates you from any other guy.
Image courtesy of http://www.radegasthall.com
Radegast Hall & Biergarten (Williamsburg)
Now onto the romantic recommendation, that would be Radegast. Once it gets dark, the candlelight bounces off the brick walls to set a very low key, dark, and kind of sexy mood. And talk about an
extensive beer list, the list is so long the print is barely legible. They also have a great choice between ordering food from the kitchen or from their self order grill (I recommend the grill)
Tip: One thing I did forget to mention is that although these are beer gardens, they do serve cocktails and wine. So make sure your date feels free to order what she wants, it doesn't have to be beer. Remember (especially on the first date), you need to take charge but you ultimately tend to her needs too.
t.b.d. Brooklyn (Greenpoint)
t.b.d. will be our chill spot. Still a good place to go for something casual. It usually isn't as packed as the previously mentioned but still a great place for a drink on a warm afternoon/evening.
El Diablo Taco Truck from Christina Reilly on Vimeo.
Union Pool (Williamsburg)
Not exactly a Beer Garden but might as well be (I think they're considered more of a hall for bands). The idea is just about the same. They have a great outdoor area with picnic table, full bar, and not to mention they throw a taco truck from
El Diablo Tacos into the mix. Taco's, drinks, and the outdoors you can't go wrong. You might find more of a hipster vibe but still very chill. I would recommend checking out the site to make a band isn't playing on the night you want to go to make sure you don't run into something too crazy for your date.
Manhattan Beer Gardens
Standard Biergarten (Meatpacking District)
For a swanky Beer garden, I present to you the Standard Biergarten. Located on the 1st floor of the luxurious Standard Hotel, right under the High Line, in the very swanky Meatpacking District. The space features an outdoor patio with a fully stocked, top shelf bar, and a wide selection of German beer. Along side with a menu of German sausages and pretzels.
