Top 10 Hottest rooftop bars in NYC.
It is the middle of August, and it is still very much summer in New York City [NYC]. Summers are exhausting for me; the heat, overcrowded spaces, and the bugs get overwhelming. On the other hand, my friends live for NYC Summers and have been having so much fun trying new places and things. But they also wanted to try a few rooftop restaurants and bars before Autumn gets here.
So I put together a list of 20 places for them, but here are the ones that they considered a “vibe” [the words of Viv] and the hottest to visit before the summer ends. So while my friends are out taking full advantage of the sunshine and Rooftop bars and restaurants, I have been hiding out at home from the heat while taking things easy.
Before the mercury drops, it is time to enjoy the rooftop season in NYC. As the city gears up for the Autumn season in a few weeks, the rooftop bars and restaurants are in full swing and are ready to welcome you for a fabulous time with amazing views. From plush decors to autumn-special menus, there is everything to set the mood.
The Top 10 Rooftop Bars and Restaurants in New York City
230 Fifth [Igloo Bar NYC]
230 Fifth boasts New York City’s largest rooftop bar, complete with an exquisitely adorned terrace garden. Offering top-notch entertainment, delectable cuisine, and exotic beverages, this rooftop bar will keep you entertained for hours.
The rooftop features rustic wooden furnishings, while the indoor space provides plush, comfortable seating.
Weekday visits do not require reservations. With a capacity to host events for up to 1,000 guests, 230 Fifth invites you to savor gourmet food and cocktails while taking in stunning views of the Empire State Building and the iconic New York skyline.
230 Fifth is an ideal spot for an outdoor winter date. Stay cozy inside the transparent, heated igloos while enjoying your time together.
Don’t miss the bottomless brunch buffet, available every weekend from 11 AM to 4 PM. Please note, entry is restricted to those 21 and older.
230 5th Avenue—Flatron
Westlight at The William Vale
Westlight offers not only breathtaking views of New York City but also exceptional food and refreshing slushy drinks. Relax on the luxurious, comfortable couches while taking in the vistas of Brooklyn, the East River, and the Manhattan skyline. The sunset views from the rooftop are nothing short of spectacular.
The bar features an extensive selection of wines, beers, champagnes, and cocktails. Complement your drinks with a variety of small and large plates crafted from locally sourced gourmet ingredients. Westlight is also available for private and corporate events, with an indoor banquet area accommodating 90-110 guests and an open terrace that seats up to 240 guests.
111 N 12th Street —Williamsburg
The Press Lounge at INK 48 Hotel
The Press Lounge is renowned for its stunning scenery, this venue offers panoramic views of the Hudson River and the entire Manhattan skyline from its open terrace.
It is a top spot for discovering a premier selection of local wines, vodkas, gins, rums, scotches, cocktails, and more. Pair your drinks with a range of small plates designed to complement the curated drink menu.
The Press Lounge is especially enchanting at night, perfect for a post-dinner cocktail. With space for up to 100 guests, it is also an excellent choice for private parties and intimate events.
653 11th Avenue 16th Floor—Hell’s Kitchen
Monarch Rooftop Bar at the Courtyard BY Marriot
This stylish Scandinavian-themed lounge bar spans 5,000 square feet of elegantly designed indoor and outdoor space, featuring traditional wooden decor. The bar is adorned with cozy seating, patio umbrellas, bar stools, and lush potted plants.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Empire State Building and Midtown Manhattan from this prime vantage point. The menu offers a delightful selection of juices and signature cocktails, complemented by a variety of small plates. Savor delicious bites such as tuna tartare tacos, roasted mixed nuts, Margherita pizzas, and more while you relax with friends.
71 West 35th Street —Midtown West
Bar 54 at the Hyatt Centric Times Square
A visit to this premier rooftop lounge and bar is always a memorable experience. Located on the 54th floor of the Hyatt Centric Times Square, the venue boasts a luxurious glass-paneled lounge and a comfortable open-air terrace.
Immerse yourself in stunning views of the East River, Hudson River, Chrysler Building, and lower Manhattan. Whether you are organizing a rooftop party or a romantic evening, this spot provides the perfect ambiance, a diverse selection of signature cocktails, and exquisite dishes. The bar offers an exceptional range of whiskeys, rums, berry gins, beers, wines, and more.
135 West 45th Street—Theater District
The Crown, Chinatown
This rooftop terrace bar offers breathtaking panoramic views of the NYC and Brooklyn skylines. Inside, The Crown features elegant modern decor, with glass walls, plush extended sofas, and ambient dim lighting.
The bar serves a top-tier selection of drinks, including premium liquors and an extensive range of cocktails. Enjoy your frozen cocktail paired with delectable nibbles such as blistered shishito peppers, tortilla chips, and chicken dumplings. The open-air terrace provides an ideal setting for socializing with friends.
With a variety of seating options, from chic lounge chairs to rustic sofas and bar stools, you can relax and take in stunning sights like the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and the expansive city skyline.
50 Bowery—Chinatown
LIFE ROOFTOP
Perched above Le Méridien New York, this sophisticated rooftop lounge bar offers stunning views of the lush greenery of Central Park. Whether you choose to sit indoors or enjoy the fresh air outside, Life Rooftop provides a memorable experience.
Inside, unwind on stylish angled sofas and take in the tranquil views through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, or enjoy your meal at a well-appointed table. The bar features a curated selection of cocktails, wines, and beers, along with a range of bottle packages including vodka, tequila, gin, champagne, cognac, and rum. Savor your favorite drink alongside delicious small plates such as pretzels and Cajun chicken fries.
120 West 57th Street—Midtown West
Panorama Room
Panorama Room, located on the 18th floor of the Graduate Hotel on Roosevelt Island, is an enchanting rooftop bar offering sweeping city views.
The indoor lounge features elegant decor with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and custom furnishings and lighting designed by Part and Labor Design. This meticulous design creates a refined and sophisticated atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a selection of large and small plates alongside their drinks, with a menu that highlights seafood dishes paired with various tartines. The bar offers an impressive array of bottled beverages, glass servings, and an extensive cocktail menu.
22 N Loop Road – Roosevelt Island
Water Tower at the Williamsburg Hotel
Searching for the perfect spot to unwind on a summer afternoon?
Book a seat at the Water Tower Pool and Bar for a relaxing escape. If you prefer to avoid direct sunlight, reserve a cabana for added comfort. Enjoy a variety of seating options, including plush chaise lounges, round sunbeds, and cozy indoor chairs, all complemented by exceptional service. Take in stunning views of the NYC skyline, Manhattan, and Brooklyn while you eat, drink, and socialize from noon until late into the night.
The rooftop also offers the option to enjoy a full-course lunch or dinner alongside your drinks.
96 Wythe Avenue —Williamsburg
Jimmy, SoHo
Perched atop ModernHaus SoHo, this elegant rooftop bar offers the perfect setting for a romantic evening. Following its 2020 renovation, the space now features a stunning swimming pool and a refined atmosphere.
Unwind on the comfortable chaise lounges or cool off in the pool during a hot summer afternoon. Enjoy breathtaking views of Manhattan, including landmarks like the Empire State Building, Freedom Tower, and even New Jersey. The menu boasts a selection of premium drinks, including specialty cocktails, wines, and beers, alongside a variety of delectable bites. Treat yourself to French fries, tacos, spiced bread, chicken brochettes, and chocolate cookies as you savor your favorite beverages.
15 Thompson Street—South Village
Please note that these rooftop bars are highly popular and often crowded year-round. To ensure a table on your preferred date, it is a good idea to make a reservation in advance.
What’s your favorite rooftop bar in NYC? Share your experience in the comments below.
