Governors Island Offers Seasonal Bites, Beers For Summer Weekends

By Siobhan Wallace

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Governors Island has come a long way since the public was first able to access it via free ferries in 2003. Now there's plenty of dining options to choose from -- besides the ever-present vending machines.

More: CBSNewYork's Getaway Guide To Governors Island

Head to Colonels Row, right off the Parade Ground--the large, hilly field--to find the Food Court. It's an alleyway filled with several food options and tables to eat at.

At the front of the alley way is Nick's Famous food truck, which offers breakfast and lunch fare complete with delicious tacos. Tucked away in the corner to the left is Financial District cart Veronica's Kitchen serving up Trinidadian dishes like chicken roti and the drink mauby.

More: NYC's 7 Best Food Trucks

Also in the alleyway is one outpost of Pyramid Coffee, for those who need a little mid-afternoon pick-me-up. There's also pre-made picnics for sale from Perfect Picnic. A classic picnic for two involves meats from Salumeria Biellese, cheese, jam, and a baguette from Pain d'Avignon. The kiddies don't miss out on their own basket either; a full lunch is available from there for $10.

If you find the Parade Ground a little too crowded for your liking, head down the road to Picnic Point, at the other end of the island. There you'll find hammocks, porch swings, and beer. Little Eva's shack opened up offering tacos, hot dogs, and bratwursts, all of which can be tossed back with a couple in their side beer garden. It's the only place on the island to imbibe.

For dessert, Blue Marble ice cream has set up their own little cart right at the most scenic point there. It's the perfect treat to indulge in while watching the boats go by.

Siobhan Wallace is the co-founder of Blondie & Brownie.