Bluestone Lane, Astor Pl.
Not much seating, but I like how they take advantage of the planters as pre-existing spacers. They should put out more tables.
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Debutea, Thompson St
I like the greenhouse vibe, with the bright colored counter and stools. The counter in place of tables give it more of a teahouse/coffeeshop feel.
Ramen Takumi, University Pl.
This restaurant is the harbinger of what is sure to be decorative gourd season for outdoor dining now that it's fall.
The Evolution of Spicy Moon, W. 3rd St
More than any other restaurant that I pass regularly, Spicy Moon has been experiencing an ongoing evolution. Starting from the bottom: they decided on garish neon early on as a design choice. They soon expanded the pink tape with other neon colors. Then they added bright red plastic dividers, with color-changing rope lights. In its most recent incarnation, the neon tape has been replaced with street art that reflects its vegan mission (note that the animals have "Save Me" written on them). Spicy Moon's food is amazing, and I was thrilled when they moved next door. I have almost no desire to eat in this space, however.
Miss Lily's, Houston St.
The Jerk Hut, brought to you by Akbar and Jeff's long lost cousin Lily. (The orange bench seating is also a nice touch.)
Short Stories & Posh Pop, Bowery & Bleecker St
Cotton candy pink as a monolithic color scheme shows up sometimes, and well, that's a choice that a restaurant can make. (Click the post to see a second picture.)
Carroll Place, Bleecker St
It's aesthetically pleasing when a restaurant uses their indoor furniture (though undoubtedly a pain to have to bring it back inside overnight). Bonus points for matching the barrier wall with the furniture.
Groove, W. 3rd St
Another place with live music. The amplification system here is kind of too loud, but still, props for partnering with musicians.
Village Taverna, University Place
Unique rugs for each table is a distinctive feature. They also do a great job of both providing shade and blocking out adjacent traffic. The fans on top are also a nice touch.
Thompson St
Not just one restaurant, but nearly an entire street full of them. Unfortunately, cars are still allowed to drive between these decks. This street isn't high-traffic and should just be blocked off.