Squash blossoms are one of the fleeting beauties of summer produce. Their gorgeous petals and delicate flavors are a welcome reprieve from the heavier flavor and flesh of their immediate relatives, zucchini squash, which seem to explode so violently from the garden this time of year that we are easily overwhelmed. Try squash blossoms raw for a light, delicious surprise, or go the popular, cooked route by stuffing them with gooey cheeses and frying the packages whole.

These New York restaurants are making the most of squash blossom season with appetizers, entrees, and sides alike. Stop in to taste one of summer’s prettiest offerings.

Perla - 24 Minetta Lane  New York, NY 10012 – crispy zucchini flower with cacio cavalo, anchovies, and chicory

North End Grill - 104 North End Avenue  New York, NY 10282 - squash blossom tempura with cojita and sriracha mayo

Crown - 24 East 81st Street  Manhattan, NY 10028 - gulf shrimp with squash blossoms and cherry tomato fondue

Back Forty West - 70 Prince Street  New York, NY 10012 - stuffed summer squash with ricotta, swiss chard, and cremini mushrooms

Hudson Clearwater  – 447 Hudson Street  New York, NY 10014 - parmesan roasted summer squash, enoki mushrooms, extra virgin olive oil