For good people-watching during the summer, stake out an outdoor table in one of the many eateries located directly across from Lincoln Center.

Funky Gray’s Papaya (2090 Broadway, at 72nd St., 212/799-0243) sells some of the city’s best cheap hot dogs—to be eaten standing up.

The hole-in-the-wall La Caridad (2199 Broadway, at 78th St., 212/874-2780, $8) is the best of the Cuban-Chinese restaurants in this part of town—just look at the long line of cab drivers out front.

The no-frills Cafe con Leche (24 Amsterdam Ave., at 80th St., 212/595-7000, $9) is a modern Latin diner with first-rate beans and rice.

The Upper West Side has become a bit of a brunch destination, due in no small part to restaurants like Sarabeth’s (423 Amsterdam Ave., 212/496-6280, $11).

Another neighborhood favorite is Celest (502 Amsterdam Ave., 212/874-4559) which serves a solid selection of reasonable Italian dishes, though a no reservations policy could mean a wait.

In Central Park, the sleek, upscale Boat House (on East Dr., near 72nd St., 212/517-2233, $27) serves grilled meats and fish, salads, and sandwiches on a patio overlooking the lake.

Barney Greengrass (541 Amsterdam Ave., between 86th and 87th Sts., 212/724-4707, $14) is best-known for its traditional bagels and lox.

For Middle Eastern fare, along with live jazz and a circular bar, try Cleopatra’s Needle (2485 Broadway, between 92nd and 93rd Sts., 212/769-6969, $12).

Tiny Awash (947 Amsterdam Ave., between 106th and 107th Sts., 212/961-1416, $10) is one of the best of the Ethiopian restaurants that dot the Upper West Side.

During warm weather, an outdoor café operates near Lincoln Center’s fountain. Cafe Mozart (154 W. 70th St., near Broadway, 212/595-9797) serves especially good desserts and other light bites.

Amsterdam Avenue between 79th and 85th street is teaming with bars. Mostly a younger twenty-something crowd prevails, but quieter choices include wine bar Cava (185 W 80th St., 212/724-2282) and the tiny Dead Poet (450 Amsterdam Ave., 212/595-5670).