In New York's competitive culinary scene, it's no longer enough for restaurants to serve up gourmet dishes and sommelier-approved wines. To make it in this town, a handful of eateries are offering diners the chance to enjoy top quality dishes in backyard-style gardens, many of which rival the lush lawns of the city's best parks. Since everyone loves eating outdoors and the weather is finally starting to warm up, we have rounded up our favorite al fresco dining spots so that you can treat yourself to a delicious meal and a killer atmosphere at once.

[Photo: Waverly Inn via BFA]