A Tour of Stone Street, Lower Manhattan’s Outdoor Party Central
Stone Street is downtown’s original patio. The curved, cobblestone alleyway has served as an animated drinking and dining destination since 1996, when the Downtown Alliance began a major streetscape program aimed at transforming public spaces into more welcoming environments for foot traffic. Its settings have for decades epitomized the post-work hang among stereotypical Wall Street bros. But in the last couple of years, the corridor has evolved into a multi-culti medley for international cuisine.
Not that the change-up in demographics has tempered any of Stone Street’s signature rambunctiousness; it’s still one of the hottest happy-hour scenes in town. Get to know the places to eat and drink outdoors there and why.
Stone Street Tavern
Expect to find hearty American fare and a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. (52 Stone St.)
Ulysses
This charming haunt takes literary inspiration from Homer and James Joyce and serves up whiskeys, ales, and a mean Cajun steak on toast with horseradish cream. (58 Stone St. / 95 Pearl St.)
Mad Dog & Beans
The margarita-forward establishment that has helped the Alliance settle hot-button debates over corn versus flour tortillas and which month sees the most guac consumption also is dependable for traditional Mexican cooking and endless baskets of chips. (83 Pearl St.)
Havana Social
This bright Cuban spot’s happy hour is sure to cheer you up every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Grab a bucket of five beers for $35, or opt for the $8 frozen drinks or wells. (45 Stone St.)
Route 66 Smokehouse
Delicious BBQ made sweeter by an impressive all-American whiskey list and a 20-tap lineup of craft beers. (45 Stone St.)
Underdog
Fans of tasty drinks will delight at this underrated gastropub’s creative cocktail menu. (55 Stone St.)
Adrienne’s Pizzabar
Adrienne’s whips up fresh pies and other Italian dishes that are perfect for sharing. The menu offers a variety of casual Italian fare, including the house specialty: grandma-style pizza. (54 Stone St.)
Beckett’s Bar and Grill
The friendly, casual bar-and-grill offers up all the traditional dishes from eggs Benedict to pancakes. (81 Pearl St.)
photo: Ann-Sophie Fjello-Jensen/AP
Tags: patio fever, stone street