ZipPicks Awards
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Boerum Hill
Master Critic Review
Parklife
8.0
Parklife in Gowanus functions as a mashup of modern taqueria, bar, and outdoor event yard, with a 4,000-square-foot front patio, heated solariums, and picnic-style seating. The menu pulls from Persian, Mexican, and Texan flavors, making it a flexible option for casual dinners, happy hours, and game nights outside.
Must-Try Dishes:
Joojeh kabob taco, Lamb biryani tlayuda, Loaded queso with chips
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A huge, landscaped yard and solariums where cross-cultural tacos and cocktails are clearly built for lingering outdoors.
Who should go: Groups wanting drinks, tacos, and outdoor space to spread out.
When to visit: Warm evenings or game-day events when the yard feels most alive.
What to order: Joojeh kabob taco, lamb biryani tlayuda, loaded queso.
Insider tip: If you’re with a larger crew, reserve ahead and ask about the semi-private solarium spaces for more weather-proof outdoor time.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally manageable on surrounding industrial blocks before 6pm, tougher during evening events.
Dress code: Casual and weather-aware; layers recommended for outdoor/solarium seating year-round.
Noise level: Lively; conversation is possible at smaller tables, but games and music add background volume.
Weekend wait: 20–45 minutes without a reservation, especially during events or warm-weather evenings.
Weekday lunch: Often no wait; limited daytime rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several taco and small-plate options built around veggies and dairy.
Vegan options: Some options—expect a handful of adaptable tacos and sides; confirm ingredients with staff.
Gluten-free options: Multiple menu items can be prepared gluten-free; tortillas and bowls are common substitutions.
Best For
Better for: Large-group outdoor hangs with cocktails and globally inspired tacos in a creative, event-driven yard.
Skip if: You want quiet, white-tablecloth dining or strictly traditional Mexican dishes.