The BYOF* boom

FOR THE LAZY BBQ AFICIONADO

EIGHT MILE CREEK
240 Mulberry St., 212-431-4635

This Aussie hangout is actually a restaurant that serves manly fare like rack of lamb and meat pie with mashed potatoes. But the chill back garden made a name for itself when the owners started doing Down Under-style “barbies,” allowing patrons to bring their own meat and even providing marinades, to boot.

* DRINK: A glass of Yalumba Y Series 2008 Viognier, $8.50

* BYOF: Co-owner Andrew Jordan says the bring-your-own-meat parties can get out of hand. “You get some frustrated amateur chefs saying, ‘Man, I’ve brought enough veal for 40 people, can you just get me a twist of lemon and some garnishes?’” As a result, the BYOM policy is now limited to private parties, at which someone from the restaurant will help man the fire. Call ahead to reserve the space, and the owners are happy to have you bring your own shrimp or fish for the Weber grill. They’ll suggest sides and wine pairings to go with your masterpiece.

The East River Bar

Photos: The BYOF* boom

FOR HIP BROOKLYN MOMS

SYCAMORE
1118 Cortelyou Road, Brooklyn, 347-240-5850

By day it’s a sweet flower shop, by night it’s an American whiskey bar with a Southern flavor. Ultimately, Sycamore has become the nexus of the new Ditmas Park, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s a family-friendly spot, but the cast of “Hair” recently did a nude photo shoot here ­— which keeps things interesting.

* DRINK: The Sycamore Julep, $8

* BYOF: On a recent Sunday, one group of intrepid urban picnickers bought a bottle of pinot grigio at the bar and then tucked into a cooler packed with turkey sandwiches, Kettle chips and crudités. A few feet away, a couple delved into a spread of Middle Eastern fare from Mimi’s Hummus, a tiny spot across Cortelyou Road that often has long waits for a table. “People come from around the block and bring their dinner — they don’t want to be cooped up at home. We’re not dictating what they bring. It’s really whatever makes them happy,” says co-owner Justin Israelson.

FOR THE BEER & BURGER CROWD

FRANKLIN PARK
618 St. John's Place, Brooklyn

The simple beer garden behind this Prospect Heights bar, which proffers some 20 beers, attracts a diverse crowd. "You've got your hipsters, you've got your Caribbean dudes, you've got families chilling on the weekends," says co-owner Matt Roff. "It's a community gathering place."

* DRINK: Franklin Park Hard Lemonade, $10

* BYOF: "People do meat and cheese spreads or bring meat for the grill," says Roff. Others get burgers from Dutch Boy Burger, around the corner on Franklin Avenue, which Roff also co-owns. "Obviously I'd like them to buy my food, but I don't get pissed if they want to order Mexican instead. Until I connect the restaurant and the bar, they can bring meatloaf from home, for all I care." We suggest you pack your hamper with cold roasted rosemary chicken and an old-fashioned potato salad.

BYOM (Bring your own meat)
How the DIY grilling phenomenon works

The Brooklyn BYOF spots — Sycamore and East River Bar — both have barbecue grills available to use on a first come, first served basis.

But you need to supply the charcoal, lighter fluid and — of course — the meat.

If you ask nicely, the staff might offer some tips to get the fire going, but when it comes to making a steak perfectly medium rare, you’re on your own. And you must supply paper plates, napkins, cutlery and any condiments you’re dreaming of slathering on your steak, fish or veggies.

At Eight Mile Creek in SoHo, the grill protocol is more formal — and reservations are required if you want to char your sausages on its Weber. Call ahead to book a private party in the backyard, and the owners will bring out the grill. Special marinades, side salads and desserts are available, but cost extra. If you prefer, the staff will take your meat and veggies and cook them on the more powerful grill in the kitchen.

The bonus at all these spots? You won’t be stuck scrubbing down the grill after dinner.