Cookouts, Picnics, Brunches and Boozy Cocktails Mark the Unofficial Start of Summer in the City

Photo: Ixta                                                                                                    

Tulum inspired Ixta (299 Bowery, NYC) is hosting a family style feast on Memorial Day featuring a whole sucking pig. It is custom ordered then seasoned, marinated and cooked to perfection, requiring a 72 hour notice. The Mexican feast feeds 9 to 12 guests and includes ‍Chorizo, Roasted Pineapple, Mojo Sauce, Mexican Feast Condiments as the ultimate grilling experience when you don’t feel like cooking.

Photo: Flying Cock                                                               

The Flying Cock is all about red, white and booze.  The Murray Hill bar is extending its weekend Bottomless Brunch to Monday with dishes like the All American Burger and Crispy Flying Cock fried chicken sandwich, and cocktails like Finding Nemo -- a tequila, grapefruit, blue orange liqueur, lime, and ginger beer blend served with gummy fish in a clear pouch.

Photo: Doner Haus                                                                                         

Don’t have access to a barbecue for Memorial Day grilling?  How about a picnic?  Döner Haus is offering German-style Döner kebabs perfect for a picnic in one of New York City’s popular parks. There are available in beef or chicken with a side of Haus Fries.

Dance the night away at Somewhere Nowhere where DJ Alec Monopoly will be spinning the tunes on Sunday, May 28th. Tickets start at $30 for general admission and include access to a one-hour open vodka bar from 11 p.m. to midnight. Alec will be spinning until 4 a.m.  

For those wishing to escape Manhattan’s hustle and bustle, head to Blu on the Hudson for a waterfront brunch with spectacular views of Manhattan’s skyline and seafood-centric menu. Blu is offering its recently launched brunch menu on Memorial Day (5/29) from 12pm to 4pm.