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Fireworks, tableside

July 4 fireworks over the East River

Fireworks are one thing. But fireworks, seen from a comfy perch at a restaurant table with a meal in front of you and a glass of something cold in your hand -- now, you're talking. Here's where to celebrate the Fourth.

Battery Gardens will have an all-American buffet outdoors: Short ribs, barbecued chicken, hot dogs and hamburgers are among the offerings. The party runs from 5-10 pm. (Battery Park opposite 17 State Street; 212-809-5508. $75 per person)

Delancey. The rooftop bar is a find: lots of greenery, no pool but a fountain that spritzes enough to keep you cool. On the 4th, tthere's free admission and a DJ -- plus a barbecue serving up dogs, burgers, veggie burgers, and potato salad -- but you need to make reservations. They figure you'll get a pretty good view of the fireworks at the Seaport. (5:00 pm - 4:00 am.; 168 Delancey Street; 212-254-9920)

Heartland Brewery & Beer Hall has a pretty good view of the fireworks -- the FDR blocks it a little, according to one staffer, but they still draw a huge crowd. The menu is limited, but the drinks go down well. Get there early -- by 3 pm or so. It's a madhouse, and they don't take reservations. (93 South Street, near South Street Seaport; 646-572-2337)

Sequoia offers its seafood-heavy menu along with a fireworks view. The downside is that there are no reservations and the place gets jammed. Go early. (South Street Seaport, Pier 17 Building; 212-732-9090)

Pacific Grill.Seafood with an Asian accent plus a view of the fireworks, and they'll take a reservation. What more could you want? (South Street Seaport, Pier 17 Building; 212-964-0707)

MacMenamin's Irish Pub. Thirty bucks puts you out on the deck for a view of the fireworks. Otherwise, prices at this simple pubby place are as they always are, and so is the menu -- burgers, sandwiches, salads, and the like. The draft Guinness is much admired. Get there by 5 pm. (93 South Street; 212-732-0007)

Harbour Lights has a set three-course menu, which includea a choice of salmon, lobster ravioli, steak or chicken as a main courses. There will also be a clambake. No reservations; first-comers are first served. Beware, though: The restaurant does not guarantee a great view of the fireworks; however, with the addition of the extra barge, they believe you'll be able to see them just fine. Get there by 6 pm. ($75 per person; clambake, add $19.95. South Street Seaport; 212-227-2800)

Water's Edge has a three-course prix-fixe dinner with an open bar. The main course is a choice of surf and turf, roast chicken, or fish. ($200 per person; 44th Drive, Long Island City; 718-482-0033)