The best new beer gardens: More reasons to wish for spring

Across the U.S., the traditional German beer garden is being reimagined, said FoodandWine.com. At these three relative newcomers, innovative owners have managed to upgrade both the food offerings and the furnishings.

Birreria New York City. The “highest brewery in New York” occupies a space above Eataly, an Italian market complex created by Mario Batali. Under Birreria’s multimillion-dollar retractable roof, waiters serve a revolving series of remarkable cask-conditioned ales that in-house brewer Peter Hepp Jr. developed in collaboration with two Italian brewmasters and Dogfish Head’s Sam Calagione. 200 5th Ave., (212) 937-8910 

Easy Tiger Austin. Waller Creek runs alongside the patio out back at this combination bakery and beer garden. The bakery specializes in chewy Bavarian-style pretzels, while “the chef’s enthusiasm for well-done comfort food comes through in thick sandwiches piled with house-made corned beef and pastrami.” 709 E. 6th St., (512) 614-4972

Lowry Beer Garden Denver. Colorado is home to a legendary craft beer industry that now has a new showcase: This 8,000-square-foot beer garden sits outside the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. It specializes in the offerings of such acclaimed locals as Avery, Odell, and Left Hand. 7577 E. Academy Blvd., (303) 366-0114