It’s officially time to get out the charcoal, folding chairs and playlists. Memorial Day weekend’s approach means the start of grilling season in the city.
Whether you’re new to barbecuing or just need a refresher, there are some rules and tips worth knowing. National Barbecue Month (that’s now, in May) is a great excuse to gather outside, but in NYC parks, you can’t just show up with a propane tank and a speaker (especially if you want to avoid citations and annoying your neighbors).
A brief history of race, politics and BBQ
Before delving into logistics, let’s honor the history of the cookout. “Barbecue” is often misunderstood as being French (it sounds like the French word “barbe-a-queue).” In fact, the word traces back to the Taíno Indians of the Caribbean. “Barbacoa” referred to a wooden frame for sleeping or for drying or smoking meat; in other words, it connoted grilling or resting, both of which you’ll hopefully get your fill of.
The cooking technique, though, was already widespread in North America, according to barbecue expert Robert F. Moss. Early 18th-century historians noted that Native people in the Carolinas had long used barbecue racks for drying and salting venison and, more commonly, cooking wild turkeys and seafood. The same historians couldn’t have been more wrong about the rest of BBQ history when they claimed the technique was overrated. Fellow colonists passing through adopted the technique and, in a way, appropriated it.
Barbecue took root in Virginia and became a political institution – even George Washington got involved in plying voters with drinks and barbecued pork at these first American campaign barbecues. You could argue that the anti-barbecue movement that rose back then reflected more wariness about campaign finance ethics than we have today.
While barbecue wasn’t as common in northeastern cities until much later, in New York, Tammany Hall politicians experimented with sponsoring the occasional Harlem ox roast. The first campaign barbecue in NYC– for the presidential election of 1860–was a “fiasco,” according to Moss: the main barbecue guy badly charred the meat, and a mob wreaked havoc on the food and tables. Before the presidential candidate could give his post-BBQ speech, about 300 police officers were called in to “restore order.” Even then, New Yorkers went wild for barbecues. (The candidate who hosted the first NYC barbecue lost.)
Unsurprisingly, it was Black people in the South who shaped the tradition into what we know today. Enslaved people were often tasked with preparing food for barbecues hosted by plantation owners. Black people blended barbacoa with African and Caribbean flavors and practices. After emancipation, cookouts became cornerstones of care, resistance, and celebration.
Now, here’s how to be a good grilling neighbor in city parks:
Before your BBQ day
- Scope out your spot. Grilling is only allowed in designated BBQ areas. These are usually marked by red coal-disposal barrels or posted signage. And if you’re planning on bringing your whole block — or more than 20 people — you’ll need a special events permit. Apply for permits at least 21 days in advance.
- Leave the propane at home. NYC parks don’t allow propane grills. Bring a charcoal grill that stands at least three feet off the ground.
- Think ahead on setup. Picnic tables aren’t guaranteed. Bring folding chairs and a table to avoid hovering. Also smart to pack: foil, wet wipes, and extra trash bags. You’ll thank yourself later.
You can grill in Central Park—but only three times a year. Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day are the only days grilling is permitted. You’ll have to stick to the northern section of the park, north of 96th Street. Recommended areas include the Harlem Meer and the Great Hill.
NYC Parks weighs in
We reached out to NYC Parks about common issues they see during grilling season. The two major culprits: BBQing in non-designated areas and improper disposal of coals not being properly disposed of..
“These areas are designated for a reason,” a Parks spokesperson said in an email. “They are further from residential areas to help avoid smoke or noise complaints, and further from sensitive horticulture, which can be damaged by hot coals.”
Also, another reminder to dispose of coals in the proper red-barrel receptacles: “Human activity is typically the cause of brush fires in our natural areas. All New Yorkers should grill responsibly.”
On the day of your BBQ
- Get there early. Prime spots go quickly. Not everyone has the stamina to claim a spot at 5 a.m., but on a sunny weekend, some parks fill up by 10 a.m. If your schedule is flexible, weekday grilling is usually more chill.
- Set up safely. Keep your grill at least ten feet from trees, roots, and park structures. That includes benches, fences, and playground equipment. Keep kids and pets away from the hot zone.
- Watch the volume. Be respectful with your Bad Bunny playlist. Competing Bluetooth speakers can quickly turn festive into frustrating.
- Be a good neighbor. If your group is small, don’t take up more space than you need. In the spirit of a good cookout, it’s okay to ask for more room or offer space to others.
Before you leave
- Cool it down. Fully douse your coals with water before you pack up. Never dump hot coals on the grass, near trees, or into regular trash cans. Use the red metal bins provided by the city.
- Clean as you go. Even if the park’s trash bins are full, bag your garbage and place it neatly beside the bin. Wipe down shared surfaces like tables and benches. Leave it better than you found it. A clean park means fewer complaints, which also means more freedom to keep using these spaces.
Top parks to grill in each borough, with a view
Here are just some of the favorites to grill in, with scenery to match.
Manhattan
Inwood Hill Park
Located at the northern tip of the island, Inwood Hill Park offers designated grilling areas with views of the Hudson River. It’s a nature-filled escape without leaving the city.
Brooklyn
Prospect Park (Long Meadow and Vanderbilt Oval)
Prospect Park has several grilling zones, including the north end of Long Meadow and Vanderbilt Oval near the southwest entrance. Expect tall trees, open grass, and relaxed but lively vibes.
Queens
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
You can bring all your primos to this one. With wide BBQ zones and landmarks like the Unisphere nearby, there’s a reason it’s a favorite for family reunions.
The Bronx
Pelham Bay Park (Orchard Beach)
NYC’s largest park includes barbecue areas near Orchard Beach, including the North and South Lawns. You’ll get beach views, shaded lawns, and a Bronx summer vibe.
Staten Island
South Beach
Grill by the waterfront with views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. South Beach’s BBQ areas offer a laid-back vibe.
