Don't look now but Independence Day is just around the corner. So what to do? To start, you can always stick with the classics and take a trip to Coney Island to watch the annual Nathan's International July Fourth Hot Dog Eating Contest, which kicks off at noon. If competitive eating isn't your thing, consider a festive dinner with a clear view of Macy's 4th of July Fireworks, which will once again shoot above the East River from South Street Seaport and lower Midtown at 9 PM.
Back Forty: The Alphabet City boîte is hosting an all-American backyard barbecue perfect for those heading over to the FDR to watch the fireworks. Three-dollar beers complement free watermelon slices and an à la carte menu that ranges from grilled shrimp skewers to grilled pork chops with rhubarb mustard (3–11 PM; reservations available for parties of six or more; 212-388-1990).
Harbour Lights: This Seaport seafooder is offering a limited version of its regular menu for diners along with its panoramic view of the bridges – and the light show of course (6–9 PM; reservations not required, but seating is on a first come, first served basis; 212-227-2800).
Nelson Blue: Though this New Zealander isn't offering much special for the holiday, the views of the Brooklyn Bridge from its sidewalk seating are worth the trip (11–2 AM; reservations not required; 212-346-9090).
Roosevelt Island Fireworks Festival: Where better to watch the fireworks than from the middle of the East River itself? With live music from four different groups, children's entertainment including rides, clowns and face painters, and food provided by Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, this should be a Fourth to remember (5 PM; $20 per person; South Point Park on the tip of Roosevelt Island; tickets must be bought in advance either online or by calling 888-695-0888).
Water Club: Take in the display from a pricey perch on this East River barge off of Murray Hill (7 PM; $320 per person; reservations required, though currently the restaurant is only taking names for a waiting list; 212-683-3333).
Water's Edge: The Manhattan skyline is the backdrop for the main event at this Long Island City New American where the festivities will be accompanied by a three-piece jazz band (6:30–7 PM seating; $200 per person, includes three-course dinner, open bar, tax and gratuity; reservations required; 718-482-0033).
Water Taxi Beach: This man-made Long Island City beach across from the U.N. offers an ideal perch to watch the fireworks flare. The Beach will be serving its regular fare, as well as some chef's specials, and the price of bottled water will be reduced to $1 a pop (starts at noon; $25 per person for general admission; $200 for VIP tickets, which include open bar, all food and chef's specials; tickets are required and are available onilne).