We've decided since our girls are on vacation during the Gates installation we should hop on the train (from RI) and head to Central Park.

We realize the Met rooftop garden is open and that will be a great overall view. We also plan on walking through the park a bit.

As for lunch, I am nervous that places around Central Park will be busy. Any suggestions for a spot for us? We will be two adults and four young teens (my girls will each bring a friend).

Also, any ideas of other things to do? We go to NYC a few times a year but I think one of the friends has not been before.

Thanks,
Karin

Sure places will be busy, but what about making a reservation? They'd love Tavern on the Green. And I've never been to the Boathouse in the winter, but what a great spot!

Patrick -
Sounds great but I'm afraid we are looking for less expensive options. Also some flexibility because I'm just not sure about timing. I don't know if we want to be tied to a reservation.

Hop over to Zabar's,

I'd recommend Patsy's Pizza on West 74th Street and Columbus Avenue. It's reasonably priced and has delicious pizzas, pastas and salads. You can order individually or get family-style dishes. Very casual... but nice. Note-- they only accept cash... no credit cards.

Isabella's on 77th and Columbus.

If you're on a budget, I would definitely recommend sticking to the west side of the park. There are quite a few good, but casual restaurants on Amsterdam Avenue in the 70s and 80s. E.J.'s Luncheonette (I'm not sure what the cross street is) has a 50s diner atmosphere. Fred's (at the corner of 83rd St.) is filled with photos of patrons' dogs...Fred is also a pooch. The food is tasty at both and either would be good for teens.

The Fodor's editor is correct that there are lot more inexpensive places to choose on the West Side. If you decide to go there, then I recommend you go to the Strawberry Fields area, the base of which offers a great view of The Gates.
Keep in mind that if you go to the West Side, it'll be a healthy walk to or from there to the Metropolitan Museum. (The rooftop view from there really isn't that great!)

Thanks for all the suggestions.

Howard R - I have heard the view from the rooftop garden isn't all that great. My mom is going on Saturday so I'll be interested to hear what she has to say. I'm sure we would get involved at the museum with exhibits which is fine, but not the purpose of this trip. We might be better to skip it and spend more time in the park.

Karin, I would spend the time in the park. I'm a member of the Met and love the facility, but it will always be there, while The Gates leave on February 27!
However, if you do go into museum, the view from the fourth floor Trustees Dining Room is much better. We just walked in there (obviously before dining time in the morning) and we allowed to walk up to the windows for the view.

Big Nicks on Broadway around 75th(?) is one of my favorite diners in New York. They have a good selection of food at decent prices. I always enjoy looking at the pictures of celebrities on the wall.

Or, Toms Restaurant at Broadway and 112th(?), which, depending on your kids ages, they might recognize from Seinfeld. Of course, if you are in this neighborhood, you should stop in and visit the Cathedral of St. John the Divine.

We experienced the Gates on Sunday and had a lovely time just walking in the park. I hope your experience is just as rewarding. Peace. >-

Robyn