Boat Basin Cafe on 79th and Hudson...

While I am not a super big fan of the Boat Basin Cafe anymore (I think I have been "aged out": it has gotten more like a frat party on Friday and Sat. night and seems more geared towards singles and younger people than I...), it is a real party atmosphere and great for mingling and hanging out. They have a Happy Hour M-F 4-7PM--drinks $2 off. It is really a scene here. And fun to be outdoors, I have to say.
Here's the rundown from their website.

The Boat Basin Café is a casual outdoor restaurant, arranged in three sections & located in Riverside Park at the end of 79th Street on the Hudson River. There is an open air patio that overlooks the Marina and the Hudson River with breathtaking views of the sunsets over New Jersey. The covered Rotunda section in the middle of the restaurant has limestone arches overlooking the open air patio. All BBQ Grill parties are held underneath this covered area. The last section is our circular open air area where most of our bar parties are held, weather permitting.

Hours of Operation:

Monday through Wednesday – 12 noon till 11:p.m.

Thursday and Friday - 12 noon till 11:30 p.m.

Saturday 11 am till 11:30 p.m.

Sunday 11am till 10 p.m.

(All Weather Permitting)

(See Home Page for Spring and Fall Hours of operation)