s the smell of barbeque and the scent of fresh-cut urban grass – true it’s rare – again begin to tease your olfactory glands, a Pavlovian response kicks in: you crave alcohol. You’ve endured yet another prolonged session of icy New York streets, salt-stained trousers, and ruffled hairstyles knowing that, at the end of your winter of discontent, a shining beacon of hope awaits: patio season. It’s once again time to get soused Walden-style (i.e. outside). In New York, patios options abound and, though tempting, you don’t have time to sample them all. Thankfully, Martiniboys.com has done the legwork for you. Whether you’re looking for a Greenpoint hideaway or a Midtown rooftop, you’ll find it here. No matter your exterior drinking desires, we’ve got a spot for you. Without further ado, here is your 2008 Summer Patio Guide.

A60
Atop the exquisite Thompson Hotel you will find a secret abode frequented by private members and hotel guests. With a 360° of downtown Manhattan, A60 affords its well-pressed patrons a panoramic cityscape. The exclusive patio keeps the riff raff out, thus maintaining a rigidly high standard, so you had better dress up. Keep in mind: this one opens later in the season than some of its brethren, so don’t book a room until you’re sure you have access. 60 Thompson Street, 212-219-2000



Alma
What could be better than spending a luscious summer evening feasting on Pan-regional Mexican cuisine while staring out a beautiful NYC cityscape? (Note: that was rhetorical.) The minute you arrive at Alma’s door, you will be greeted by welcoming Mexican hospitality. With some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn piers, Alma is well worth the trek through the Battery Tunnel (and it’s a way shorter voyage than going all the way to Mexico). Though open all year round, the patio is thankfully only open air in the summer. 187 Columbia Street, 718-643-5400



AVA Lounge
You will find AVA Lounge situated atop Vikram Chatwal’s trendy Dream Hotel. Since successfully transforming the 1895 beaux-arts building into the famed hotel, Chatwal's had a roster of celeb guests lodge within. Furthermore, bevies of the beautiful have visited the rooftop terrace for an afternoon lunch adventure and panoramic views of neighboring buildings and the minions below. Of course dining with the rich and famous doesn't come cheap, so if you don't roll with the 5th Avenue crew, be sure to save your pennies. 210 West 55th Street, 212-956-7020