The Frying Pan

In the midst of an oppressively hot week, we got a glorious break in the stuffy weather, and the breeze was even cool. So help me, it was cool. I was thrilled, because I had a friend's birthday party at a popular outdoor spot on the Hudson.

The Frying Pan is a docked boat right along the West Side Highway, not far from Chelsea Piers. This place is HUGE...and some nights (most in summer), so is the line. If you don't like waiting in line, this is not the place for you. I don't normally bother with lines that long, but this was a special occasion..and it ended up being worth the wait, too.

The line was astronomical when our group arrived around 7pm on Thursday night, but it moved pretty quickly. We got inside, ordered some drinks, and took up the daunting task of finding a table in that massive, bobbing, breezy space.

I couldn't get over how huge this place was! A teeming mass of suits, sundresses, and super-loud conversations. The view of the sun setting over the Hudson was a striking backdrop to our evening, too.

We started with a bucket of Coronas and lime. I don't think I've ever had more than a sip of Corona before (not really a beer person), but with a spritz of lime juice, this was bright and thirst-quenching.

We also got a pitcher of white sangria for the birthday girl (SM) and her crew. This was refreshing and light, but it was also really watered down. I think it was more seltzer than wine for sure. The fruit, at least, was delicious and super fresh.

The Frying Pan also offers food, but I'd had a late lunch, so I skipped this part. Food is not exactly cheap ($12-$22 from what I saw) but it looks delicious. One gal had the mussels and loved them--the birthday girl had the grilled salmon and was equally happy. Doesn't it look yummy? Next time!

I may have pilfered some fries, though.

Don't be this idiot, showing off to his equally-drunk friends. Security came over a few times to tell him to knock it off--I left before the inevitable kicking-off-the-boat part.

The Frying Pan is loud, crowded, and generally a bustling place with a long damn line before you ever get inside. However, if you have the time and the weather is right, you can't beat the scenery.

The Frying Pan
205 12th Avenue
New York, NY 10001
(212) 989-6363

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