food & drink · attractions & tours ·
Published February 24, 2023
Central Park’s Iconic Loeb Boathouse to Reopen in June

The decades-old landmark closed last fall, but a new proposal could see New Yorkers dining lakeside again this summer.

by New York Bucket List
Last fall, Central Park’s iconic Loeb Boathouse shut its doors for what seemed to be the last time. After nearly 70 years in operation, the restaurant on the water struggled to keep up with the rising labor and costs of goods. The picturesque spot was made famous through movies like When Harry Met Sally, and The Manchurian Candidate, and losing it was a blow to both New Yorkers and tourists alike.
But not all hope is lost. A proposed contract between the NYC Parks Department and Legends Hospitality—the group that provides concessions to places like Yankee Stadium and One World Observatory—would allow the venue to reopen, complete with a full restaurant, snack bar, and boat rentals early this summer.
The contract also includes renovations and improvements to the structure with a goal to restore the city’s only lakefront venue to its original grandeur. Upgrading the bar area to provide improved views of the lake, expanding the restrooms, and allowing for advanced ticketing for boat reservations are some of the highlights outlined in the proposed contract.
The new restaurant would offer brunch and lunch with menu items like brioche French toast, quiche, sandwiches, and burgers, while the dinner menu would feature more elevated menu items like lamb loin, duck ragout, and Chilean sea bass. Dessert items were also listed: honey buttermilk panna cotta, Dulcey blonde chocolate tart, and black velvet cake. There will also be a market with snacks and grab-and-go items along with a kids' menu.
A hearing will be held at 2:30 pm on March 3 to review the contract. If approved, the Loeb Boathouse will reopen to the public this June.