alfresco

Since the early 19th century, the region has drawn artists — from renowned landscape artist Thomas Cole to realist painter Edward Hopper — and is now dotted with an awe-inspiring collection of alfresco art parks.

This being spring, waiters in red jackets with gold buttons dart in and out of the kitchen to ferry drinks from the bar and dishes from the kitchen to those of us wishing to dine alfresco.

The expansive alfresco patio experience incorporates a dozen six-person cozy heated plastic igloos, and a handful of picnic tables set around propane heaters for a total capacity of more than 100 socially distant diners.

I’ve continued outdoor dining through the winter, and while I rely heavily on Eater recommendations and get tips from friends, it’s kind of hard to assess a restaurant’s alfresco environment without photos.