At the north end of Union Square Park (50 E. 17th Street), near the farmers’ Greenmarket, is an outdoor seasonal bar/restaurant called Luna Park Cafe. Al fresco dining and drinking is, of course, popular everywhere there is suitable weather and more so in cities where outdoor space is at a premium. In NYC, there are only a small number of restaurants in public parks, so Luna Park’s location makes it a formula for success (and pricey).
Open April through October, the place is a hotspot, particularly in the evening, when this photo was taken (another photo here). It appears that the north end of the park is getting a complete redesign and much-needed overhaul. The pavilion that houses the restaurant is being redone and Luna Park will be replaced. Of course, any change always sparks controversy, but I believe that the renovation will be a good thing, especially if done in a timely manner…
Your blog entry was very interesting. I am a realtor specializing in Tampa Bay Florida Real Estate .
Wow… that looks enchanting.
All I remember about Union Square was a kind of dismal grimy abandonded sort of urban feeling.
So it’s great to see it’s been revitalized since I was there. Usually the sidewalks in New York are way too skinny to fit any cafe tables. I guess the original city planners never had that in mind.
Anyhow, GREAT photo…
C’est un super endroit pour passer une bonne soiree. j’y ais de bon souvenir. Tres belle photo
Thanks all. Union Square Park used to be VERY bad – drug dealers – no one went there. It’s amazing now to see high profile retailers, restaurants, the W Hotel and people relaxing. The “olden days” weren’t always better – especially in NYC.
Brian
Very nice photo today! That would be a great “date” spot.
It actually looks very elegant, a great place for a meal if you can afford it and if the weather permits.
What a fantastic scene Brian. Expensive night out?
Curly’s Photoshop