October in New York City is a feast for the senses, and the culinary scene is no exception. As the air turns crisp, restaurants and bars across the city roll out their coziest offerings, celebrating the rich, warm flavors of the harvest season. Here’s where to go to make the most of it.

Embrace Al Fresco Dining in the Autumn Air

The pleasant, cool weather of October makes it one of the last and best months for outdoor dining. Many restaurants with heated patios or sidewalk seating offer a perfect vantage point for people-watching.

• Where to Go: Look for spots in the West Village, where charming Italian restaurants like Via Carota have beautiful outdoor setups. On the Upper West Side, find a cafe with seating along Columbus or Amsterdam Avenue for a perfect pre- or post-Central Park meal.

Seek Out Seasonal Menus

October is when chefs showcase the best of the autumn harvest. Look for menus featuring ingredients like pumpkin, butternut squash, apples, and Brussels sprouts.

• Hearty Fare: For an unforgettable seasonal meal, consider a farm-to-table pioneer like Gramercy Tavern, known for its dedication to the best local ingredients.
• Sweet Treats: Don’t miss out on seasonal desserts. A trip to Magnolia Bakery for their pumpkin gingersnap banana pudding or Levain Bakery for one of their famous warm cookies is a quintessential fall experience.

Find a Cozy Cocktail Bar

As the evenings get cooler, there’s nothing better than ducking into a dimly lit bar for a well-crafted cocktail.

• Where to Go: The East Village is famous for its speakeasies like Please Don’t Tell, where you enter through a phone booth in a hot dog shop. For a classic experience, try The Campbell apartment, a grand, historic bar located inside Grand Central Terminal, perfect for a memorable autumn night out.