Rooftop bars in NYC offer more than just skyline views. This curated list blends cocktails, ambiance, and dining-worthy spots to bookmark for NYC Restaurant Week.

A meal—or even just a moment—with a view changes everything. While NYC Restaurant Week invites you to explore the city’s dining scene through prix-fixe menus and culinary discovery, summer in New York demands something more. Rooftops, skyline views, and a reason to stay a little longer.

Whether you are planning your day around a special lunch, seeking out a standout post-dinner cocktail spot, or simply looking to savor the city from above, these rooftops deliver more than just panoramic views. They offer atmosphere, experience, and a reason to stretch your afternoon into evening.

Some of these destinations are official participants in this season’s NYC Restaurant Week. Others simply complement the spirit of the event. Places where food, drink, and setting converge to create moments worth lingering over. Consider this your curated guide to rooftop dining, rooftop sipping, and rooftop living this season.

For more ways to experience NYC Restaurant Week—including local insights, reservation tips, and what to know before you go—read our NYC Restaurant Week Guide.

Rooftop Bars in NYC: Skyline Views & Cocktails [Bars First, Dining Second]

For those who believe a cocktail is best served with a side of skyline, these rooftops lead with atmosphere. While food plays a supporting role, the views, the energy, and the sense of being suspended above the city make these destinations essential stops. Whether before dinner, after, or as the main event.

230 Fifth Rooftop Bar

📍 Location: 230 Fifth Avenue, 1150 Broadway — Midtown Manhattan

A perennial favorite for locals and visitors alike, 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar remains one of the city’s most accessible and visually stunning rooftops. Positioned in the heart of Midtown, this expansive space offers panoramic views of the Empire State Building and the surrounding skyline. The terrace is vast, dotted with red umbrellas in summer and heated igloos in the cooler months, creating a year-round destination for skyline seekers.

The atmosphere is relaxed yet vibrant, drawing a diverse crowd from after-work locals to global travelers. While the drink menu leans toward crowd-pleasing classics and playful twists, it is the views that steal the show. Whether it is your first time in New York or your hundredth, seeing the Empire State lit up against the night sky from this vantage point is nothing short of cinematic.

Highlights:

• Panoramic Empire State Building views
• Heated igloos for winter visits
• Indoor lounge and spacious terrace

🔗 Experience the Empire State from Above → Reserve Your Spot Now

Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge [Moxy Times Square]

📍 Location: 485 7th Avenue 18th Floor — Times Square, Manhattan

If rooftop bars had personalities, Magic Hour would be the playful extrovert of the bunch. Perched atop the Moxy Times Square, this indoor–outdoor bar brings a splash of irreverence to the rooftop scene with its carnival-themed décor and rotating seasonal installations. Think pink trees, garden swings, or mini-golf, and sweeping views of Midtown—including the Empire State Building.

Magic Hour feels like a rooftop designed as much for Instagram as for cocktails, but do not let that dissuade you. Beneath the whimsical trappings is a well-executed hospitality experience, with brunch service, late-night DJs, and a menu of playful cocktails and bites that lean into the space’s fun-loving spirit.

Highlights:

• Seasonal, festival-inspired décor
• Direct Empire State Building views
• Brunch, nightlife, and whimsical atmosphere

🔗 Join the Fun at Magic Hour → Book Your Brunch or Cocktail Experience

Panorama Room [Graduate Roosevelt Island]

📍 Location: 22 North Loop Road — Roosevelt Island, Manhattan

For those looking to escape the well-trodden paths of Manhattan nightlife without sacrificing style or views, Panorama Room atop the Graduate Roosevelt Island Hotel is a revelation. Accessible via the iconic Roosevelt Island Tram, this jewel-box of a bar offers panoramic vistas over the East River, Midtown Manhattan, and beyond.

Inside, the design leans toward retro-luxe—velvets, brass, and a warm glow that flatters everyone under its light. The floor-to-ceiling windows maximize the skyline views, while the outdoor terrace provides the rare thrill of being surrounded by water and city lights in equal measure. It is sophisticated without feeling stuffy, intimate without being inaccessible.

Highlights:

• 360° views of Manhattan, Queens, and the East River
• Floor-to-ceiling windows and an elegant terrace
• Expertly crafted seasonal cocktails

🔗 Soak in 360° Views and Signature Cocktails → Make Your Reservation Now

Nubeluz at The Ritz-Carlton NoMad

📍 Location: 25 West 28th Street — NoMad, Manhattan

Elegance reaches new heights—literally—at Nubeluz, the sophisticated rooftop bar perched on the 50th floor of The Ritz-Carlton NoMad. Conceptualized by celebrated chef José Andrés, Nubeluz is a masterclass in modern luxury, blending sweeping 270-degree skyline views with a menu that leans into inventive cocktails and elevated small bites.

From its sleek interiors—where glass, brass, and marble coalesce in glossy harmony—to its sky-high vantage over Midtown and downtown, Nubeluz is for those seeking a rooftop experience that feels a touch more refined. Whether it is a Foggy Hill or one of the exquisitely plated desserts, every detail is intentional, every moment curated.

Highlights:

• 50th-floor luxury with jaw-dropping Manhattan views
• Curated cocktails and innovative small plates
• Chic, sophisticated ambiance ideal for special occasions

🔗 Indulge in Luxury with a Sky-High Cocktail → Book Your Experience Via OpenTable

Elsie Rooftop: A Sophisticated Retreat Overlooking Bryant Park

📍 Location: 1412 Broadway — Bryant Park, Manhattan

Located 25 stories above the city, Elsie Rooftop offers an elegant retreat that channels the spirit of legendary interior designer Elsie de Wolfe. Renowned for hosting glamorous soirées, Elsie de Wolfe’s influence shines through in the rooftop’s sophisticated design and refined atmosphere.

With both indoor and outdoor seating, this rooftop bar is the perfect spot for everything from relaxed evenings to vibrant celebrations. Whether you are enjoying expertly crafted cocktails or indulging in a seasonally-inspired menu, Elsie provides a seamless blend of New York’s energy and timeless elegance.

Highlights:

• Panoramic views of Bryant Park and Midtown Manhattan
• Sophisticated atmosphere inspired by Elsie de Wolfe’s iconic soirées
• Bespoke cocktails and seasonally driven menu, well-suited for both casual and celebratory moments

🔗 Indulge in Seasonal Cocktails with a View → Reserve Via OpenTable

Daintree: Australian Elegance Meets NYC Sophistication

📍 Location: 25 West 38th Street — Midtown West, Manhattan

Daintree brings Australian charm to the heart of Midtown Manhattan at Hotel Hendricks. The rooftop bar, offering panoramic views of the Empire State Building, provides an excellent place to unwind.

Enjoy freshly shucked oysters or sip a crafted cocktail while taking in the chic, intimate setting of Daintree’s indoor lounge and outdoor terrace. With a rotating selection of natural wines, Daintree is an exceptional choice for a night of indulgence.

Highlights:

• Expansive views of the Empire State Building and Midtown Manhattan
• Rotating selection of natural wines
• Intimate, refined setting ideal for both casual and special occasions

🔗 Elevate Your Evening with Natural Wines → Reserve Via Daintree NYC

ART Rooftops: Stunning Views, Relaxed Vibes

📍 Location: ART Midtown: 351 West 38th Street — Midtown West, Manhattan | ART SoHo: 231 Hudson Street — SoHo, Manhattan

ART Rooftops offer a unique blend of elevated city views and laid-back vibes. At ART SoHo, you can soak in breathtaking views of the Hudson River and Freedom Tower, while ART Midtown treats you to panoramic vistas of One World Trade and Hudson Yards.

Both locations provide a vibrant yet tranquil rooftop experience, ideal for everything from casual gatherings to intimate evenings. With craft cocktails, shareable small plates, and ample outdoor seating, ART delivers a beautiful setting for any occasion.

Highlights:

• Stunning views of the Hudson River, Freedom Tower, and SoHo
• Relaxed, vibrant atmosphere with craft cocktails and shareable small plates
• Indoor and outdoor seating with panoramic city views

🔗 Sip Cocktails with Iconic Views → Reserve Via ART NYC

Haven Rooftop: A Relaxed Escape Above the City

📍 Location: 132 West 47th Street — Theater District, Manhattan

Perched atop The Sanctuary Hotel, Haven Rooftop offers a serene escape with breathtaking panoramic views of Midtown Manhattan. The relaxed atmosphere, complemented by delicious bites like tuna tartare and Branzino, makes it a great spot to unwind or celebrate.

Whether you are sipping a Cloudtini or enjoying a memorable dinner, Haven delivers an unforgettable rooftop experience. Open daily, it embodies the essence of NYC with its inviting and welcoming vibe.

Highlights:

• Panoramic views of Midtown Manhattan’s skyline
• Signature cocktails like the Cloudtini and vibrant food options
• Cozy, inviting atmosphere for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings

🔗 Unwind with Breathtaking Views → Reserve Via OpenTable

BarChef: An Immersive Cocktail Experience

📍 Location: 21 West 35th Street, 3rd Floor — Midtown West, Manhattan

BarChef, renowned for its culinary-inspired cocktails and innovative mixology, has arrived in NYC. The Toronto-based bar elevates drink-making into a multi-sensory experience with modernist techniques like cryo-poached botanicals and edible garnishes.

Enjoy a cocktail on the sleek rooftop or at the modernist kitchen counter, and experience a fresh perspective on NYC’s cocktail culture. Open daily, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly immersive drinking experience.

Highlights:

• Immersive, multi-sensory cocktail experience with cutting-edge mixology techniques
• Sleek rooftop bar offering innovative drinks and stunning East Village views
• First international outpost of Toronto’s acclaimed BarChef, delivering a truly unique NYC experience

🔗 Experience Cutting-Edge Cocktail Art → Reserve Via BarChef NYC

Dining-Focused Rooftop Bars in NYC [Ideal for Restaurant Week, Even If Not Official]

These rooftops lead with their menus. Whether or not they are participating in NYC Restaurant Week, each offers a setting where the food is just as compelling as the view. From French bistro elegance to rustic Italian warmth, these spots invite you to linger longer. On a terrace, beneath the skyline, with something memorable on your plate.

La Grande Boucherie

📍 Location: 145 West 53rd Street — Midtown West, Manhattan

Timeless French elegance meets open-air dining at La Grande Boucherie, a perennial favorite for pairing Parisian flair with New York energy. Nestled just steps from the Theater District, this grand brasserie offers a sophisticated terrace setting beneath its art nouveau arches. It is ideal for leisurely lunches or lingering dinners beneath the city’s summer skies.

Participating in this season’s Restaurant Week, La Grande Boucherie delivers a menu that honors its roots. Expect classics executed with care, served alongside a vibrant Midtown hum. This is a destination for those who appreciate hospitality done the traditional way, with polish and poise.

Highlights:

• Classic French brasserie experience
• Elegant open-air terrace dining
• Participating in NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2025

🔗 Dine with Elegance at La Grande Boucherie → Reserve Your Table for NYC Restaurant Week

Serra by Birreria

📍 Location: 200 5th Avenue, Floor 14 — Flatiron, Manhattan

Above the bustle of Eataly Flatiron, Serra by Birreria offers a transportive rooftop escape—part greenhouse, part trattoria, all rooted in rustic Italian charm. The ever-evolving seasonal decor shifts with the time of year, bringing touches of the Italian countryside to the Manhattan skyline.

For NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2025, Serra’s menu leans into light, fresh flavors—housemade pastas, seasonal vegetables, and just a hint of indulgence—with options designed to pair beautifully with a midday spritz or a sunset glass of wine. It is less about dining fast and more about savoring slowly, surrounded by city views softened by vines and twinkling lights.

Highlights:

• Greenhouse-inspired rooftop with seasonal decor
• Rustic Italian menu with housemade pastas
• Participating in NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2025

🔗 Escape to Italy Above the City → Book Your Rooftop Dining Experience Via OpenTable

Refinery Rooftop

📍 Location: 63 West 38th Street — Midtown West, Manhattan

Perched atop the Refinery Hotel in the Garment District, Refinery Rooftop remains one of Midtown’s most approachable escapes for skyline views paired with classic fare. Its terrace frames the Empire State Building in cinematic proportion, while the crowd leans equal parts after-work locals and in-the-know travelers.

Expect a menu of polished, crowd-pleasing dishes—think Brick Chicken and Octopus Salad—that makes it a reliable choice whether for a mid-afternoon break or a sunset cocktail. While not officially part of Restaurant Week this season, Refinery Rooftop offers a complementary experience: light bites, well-made drinks, and those Empire State views that never quite get old.

Highlights:

• Direct Empire State Building views
• Casual, lively atmosphere
• Rooftop dining year-round

🔗 Savor Classic Cocktails with a View → Reserve Your Spot at Refinery Rooftop

RH Rooftop Restaurant

📍 Location: 9 Ninth Avenue — Meatpacking District, Manhattan

Elegance, light, and elevation meet atop RH’s Meatpacking flagship, where a skylit garden frames the city in soft hues and curated calm. RH Rooftop is not participating in Restaurant Week this season—but it remains a timeless choice for pairing refined classics with fine wine or Champagne in an effortlessly chic setting. Think burrata, truffled fries, and slow afternoons beneath olive trees.

The mood here leans toward languid lunches, celebratory dinners, or lingering glasses of wine post-shopping. It is less about the prix-fixe deal and more about carving out a beautiful moment above the city’s hum.

Highlights:

• Skylit garden rooftop
• Classic dishes with a refined twist
• Elevated, leisurely atmosphere ideal for lingering

🔗 Enjoy a Skylit Garden Escape → Reserve Your Table at RH Rooftop

Versa

📍 Location: 218 West 35th Street — Midtown West, Manhattan

Versa remains one of Midtown’s most adaptable rooftop destinations, thanks to its expansive retractable rooftop—offering open-air views in summer and cozy shelter come rain or shine. While it is not participating in Restaurant Week this season, its versatile setting and lively atmosphere make it an appealing stop for casual dining or post-lunch cocktails.

The menu leans New American with subtle global influences—think approachable plates served with skyline views and a buzz of energy from nearby Madison Square Garden and the Garment District below.

Highlights:

• One of NYC’s largest retractable rooftops
• Casual, upbeat energy ideal for groups
• Year-round rooftop dining with city views

🔗 Experience One of NYC’s Largest Retractable Rooftops → Reserve Via Resy

Castell Rooftop Lounge [AC Hotel Times Square]

📍 Location: 260 West 40th Street — Garment District, Manhattan

Discreetly tucked atop the AC Hotel Times Square by Marriott. Castell Rooftop Lounge offers a quieter, more refined rooftop experience. Its design nods to mid-century elegance, with a focus on classic martinis, tapas-style plates, and timeless hospitality. While the scene skews more grown-up than some of its flashier neighbors, Castell’s views are just as captivating, offering a chic slice of Midtown from its indoor–outdoor perch.

With ample seating, an inviting fireplace for cooler evenings, and a menu that balances substance with style, Castell feels like a rooftop designed for conversation—whether you are meeting a client, catching up with friends, or simply seeking a peaceful hour above the fray.

Highlights:

• Indoor/outdoor spaces with Midtown skyline views
• Mid-century-inspired décor and martini-centric cocktail list
• Smart-casual ambiance with light bites and happy hour

🔗 Unwind with Views of Midtown Manhattan → Reserve Your Spot Via OpenTable

Fornino: Dining with a View of Brooklyn Bridge Park

📍 Location: Pier 6 — Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn

Fornino’s rooftop at Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park offers front-row seats to stunning sunsets and unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline. Serving up wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, vibrant salads, and crave-worthy sandwiches, Fornino creates a wonderful escape for foodies and sunset chasers alike.

Whether you are grabbing a bite with friends or enjoying a solo sunset, the panoramic views will make this an unforgettable experience.

Highlights:

• Front-row seats to unforgettable sunsets and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline
• Wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas paired with fresh, vibrant salads and sandwiches
• A relaxed yet refined atmosphere perfect for sunset dining with friends or solo indulgence

🔗 Enjoy Neapolitan Pizza with a View → Reserve Via Fornino

Sushi Lab Rooftop: Fine Dining Meets Tranquility

📍 Location: 132 West 47th Street — Midtown West, Manhattan

Sushi Lab Rooftop combines the art of sushi with the tranquility of a rooftop garden. Offering omakase, fresh nigiri, and inventive sushi rolls, this serene dining experience is ideal for those seeking fine Japanese cuisine in a calm yet elevated setting.

Enjoy a special date or a peaceful evening in an intimate atmosphere with a floral garden backdrop. Open daily, it’s an exceptional way to experience sushi in a unique space above the city.

Highlights:

• Exclusive omakase experience paired with fresh nigiri and inventive sushi rolls
• Serene rooftop garden setting offering a peaceful and intimate dining experience
• Elevated Japanese cuisine with stunning views of the NYC skyline

🔗 Savor Creative Sushi with a Rooftop Twist → Reserve Via Sushi Lab NYC

Why These Rooftops Stand Out

Year-round allure: From the heated igloos of 230 Fifth to the all-season flexibility of Magic Hour and Castell. Each of these rooftops offers something special no matter the weather.

Unmatched panoramas: Whether gazing out over the East River from Panorama Room or enjoying a front-row seat to the Empire State from Nubeluz, these bars deliver quintessential NYC views.

Distinct atmospheres: From playful and social to elegant and serene, each rooftop embodies its own spirit. Offering a mood and setting for nearly any occasion.

Creative cocktails and elevated bites: These destinations are not content to rest on their views alone. From martini menus to inventive seasonal sips and curated small plates—some even featured on NYC Restaurant Week menus. The food and beverage programs at these venues are thoughtful complements to the surroundings.

Rooftop Bars in NYC: Tips for Planning Your Visit

• Reservations recommended: Especially on weekends or during sunset hours.
• Dress code: Smart-casual is generally expected; dress codes may lean more elevated at Nubeluz.
• Timing matters: Arrive around golden hour for the most breathtaking views and gentler crowds.
• Expect to linger: Part of the charm of rooftop bars is the slower pace—savor your drink, soak in the skyline, and stay a while. After all, the city feels different when seen from above.

The Rooftop State of Mind

New York City’s rooftop culture is not just a trend. It is a testament to the city’s enduring romance with its own skyline. These rooftop destinations, each distinct in mood and menu, offer unparalleled views, unforgettable moments, and that singular feeling of being suspended above it all.

Whether you find yourself drawn to the playful energy of Magic Hour, the refined calm of Castell, or the sophisticated heights of Nubeluz, these rooftops invite you to raise a glass, take in the view, and celebrate the city—timeless, towering, and alive.

And during NYC Restaurant Week, when the city’s culinary scene takes center stage, these rooftop escapes offer an elevated way to experience it all—whether you are indulging in a prix-fixe lunch or simply savoring a skyline cocktail.

For those who know, rooftop season in New York is not just a season—it is a state of mind.