Alex Newell of “Glee,” who recently made history as one of the first non-binary actors to win a Tony, tried the Gay Fantasia, an espresso martini served at their exclusive post-Pride party at Starchild Rooftop at the Civilian Hotel in NYC on Sunday. Proceeds from the special drink will go to a charity of Alex’s choosing.

While it measures in at just 59 square kilometers, the island of Manhattan is home to more than 1.6 million residents, serving as one of the most densely-settled regions on earth. Amidst the vast clusters of towering skyscrapers mingled with verdant parks, visitors can discover one of the most glorious drinking and dining scenes found on the entire planet, with a plethora of high-end bistros and dimly-lit dives to explore. While it may seem intimidating at first glance, those willing to set foot in New York County are in for a truly unforgettable experience, with no shortage of dishes, ingredients, and culinary styles from all across the globe packed into one borough.

Lower East Side

The Williamsburg Bridge was opened on December 20th, 1903.

Perched on the edge of the East River adjacent to Kings County, the Lower East Side is equipped with a stellar cocktail scene, serving as the perfect spot for a well-earned drink after a stroll across the Williamsburg Bridge. To kick off the night, newly-opened venue Thief is home to a diverse array of cocktails ranging from the agave and passionfruit-loaded Fire It Up to the rum-forward Dillinger’s Downfall, with no shortage of hearty comfort food to snack on in between drinks. But when it comes to decadent dining, the Lower East Side is home to a massive array of options. For fans of hearty Argentinian cuisine, Balvanera offers top-tier skirt steak in a cozy space, while Dhamaka is a favorite for ultra-flavorful South Asian fare, with Indian dishes like paneer methi, misa mach poora, and Nagaland pork all gracing the menu.

Washington Heights

Washington Heights was named after Fort Washington.

Renowned across the nation for its strong Caribbean heritage, Washington Heights serves as one of the Northeast’s crown jewels of Dominican dining. To experience the cuisine firsthand, Malecon has been a local favorite since the turn of the millennium, providing diners with some of the finest roast chicken in all of the city. Just a few steps away, venues range from the no-frills Marilu & Daysi to Jalao NYC, a new arrival to the local dining scene that’s earned abundant acclaim for their gorgeous interior, regular live music, and classic dishes like sancocho, mofongo, and pecao frito—but if you’re in the mood for classic Italian fare, be sure to swing by Aquamarina for a plate of veal parm paired with the perfect margarita.

SoHo

Soho is short for “South of Houston,” a nickname that references Manhattan’s iconic Houston Street.

SoHo serves as one of Manhattan’s hottest shopping districts, and after a long day of perusing boutiques, there’s a wealth of cozy watering holes to explore as well. On the edge of 6th Avenue, Lupe’s East LA Kitchen is a top spot for classic West Coast Mexican dishes like chicken mole and shrimp chipotle burritos, while The Dutch has been a local favorite for over a decade thanks to their hearty American fare and can’t-miss weekend brunch. After a meal, guests can swing by Milady’s to find a spectacular roster of cocktails like the Caribbean rum-heavy Banana Stand, while for beer aficionados in particular, Torch & Crown Brewing Company’s original location is located in the heart of the district, providing guests with an opportunity to sample their flagship Almost Famous NEIPA straight from the source.

NoMad

Madison Square Park was opened on May 10th, 1847.

In spite of its small stature, NoMad offers a massive array of top-tier drinking and dining destinations both on and off of Broadway. Those in search of hearty Mediterranean dining need look no further than ilili Restaurant, one of the city’s top spots for elevated Lebanese cuisine. While the venue excels at traditional dishes like lamb shawarma and beef fried kibbeh, guests can also enjoy hearty fusion fare like the American Lebanese burger, a spin on the classic dish that’s loaded with pickled cucumber and onion. For the totally meat-averse, neighboring Planta Queen has been a favorite in recent years thanks to their all-vegan menu featuring the iconic Bang Bang Broccoli—and when it comes to cocktails, few destinations can compare to Apotheke, a sophisticated space that’s home to some of the finest cocktails in all of Midtown.

East Village

The East Village is home to a large concentration of New York’s community gardens.

Renowned for its high concentration of German immigrants during the late 1800s, Manhattan’s East Village has morphed into one of the city’s hottest nightlife destinations in the modern era. For a truly memorable night across the neighborhood, swing by the ultra-cozy Huertas to dine on tinned fish paired with Basque-style tapas, then head just one block north to find Bar Lula, a polished venue that masterfully marries flavorful Mexican fare with French culinary techniques. Guests can snag top-tier charred shrimp, roasted octopus, and cotija-loaded hominy risotto, while the massive mezcal selection is a particular menu highlight—and to end the night on a high note, be sure to check out SuperBueno, a colorful Mexican cocktail bar that makes a killer mushroom margarita.

Central Harlem

Harlem is named after a prominent Dutch city in the province of North Holland.

A hub for Black American culture for decades on end, Harlem has served as a major influence for contemporary music, art, and literature since the mid-1900s—and today, the neighborhood’s rich legacy extends into gastronomy as well, with no shortage of incredible restaurants for visitors to discover. Best known for its decadent soul food scene, guests can sample classics like shrimp and grits, fried catfish, and chicken and waffles at time-honored venues like Amy Ruth’s, but that’s not all that the neighborhood has to offer. Harlem’s Black diaspora has given rise to a wealth of top-tier West African restaurants as well, inviting visitors to head to Abyssinia Ethiopian Restaurant for incredible vegan dishes like spicy ye misir wat or tikil gomen, while Chez Jacob is a must-visit for dibi, nem, and other classic Senegalese dishes.

Financial District

The Financial District’s iconic Charging Bull statue was installed in 1989.

Located at the southernmost tip of New York County, the Financial District serves as the beating heart of the nation’s economy—and all of that cash flow has fostered a pretty spectacular dining scene, with La Marchande perfectly exemplifying the splendor of the surrounding neighborhood. Located in the Wall Street Hotel, this opulent restaurant is a paradise for fine French dining, offering succulent oysters gratinèed, roasted chicken, and a truly incredible brioche pull apart all served alongside a massive array of French wine and vermouth. For a more casual experience, visitors can head to Cedar Local for an incredible Royale with Cheese paired with a classic cocktail, and when it comes to paninis, there’s no beating Pisillo, a pint-sized shop that’s mastered the art of the decadent Italian sandwich.

Theater District

Times Square saw its first official ball drop on December 31st, 1907.

While Times Square serves as the Theater District’s main attraction (for tourists, at least), there’s a wide array of sophisticated restaurants just a few steps away from New York’s most famous ad space. For a particularly glamorous night on the town, the massive Madame George offers a huge array of top-tier concoctions ranging from classic New York City staples to avant-garde creations—and once dinnertime rolls around, it’s tough to find a more glamorous spot than 53. A paradise for elevated pan-Asian fare, this polished venue is home to high-end dishes like lobster rice and Singapore-style Hainanese chicken, with the clay pot black cod being a particular menu highlight. And for any diners that prefer to stick close to their accommodations, the CIVILIAN Hotel is equipped with a wealth of dining options to explore just steps away from your room, with destinations ranging from the plant-filled Starchild rooftop lounge to Rosevale Kitchen, a convivial space that makes a stellar steak tartare.

Roosevelt Island

The Roosevelt Island Tramway was opened in 1976.

An oft-overlooked destination for visitors to Manhattan, the pint-sized Roosevelt Island measures in at just 0.6 square kilometers—but this tiny sliver of land is home to some incredible drinking and dining destinations. While casual venues range from ME Mediterranean Eatery to the cozy Irish-inspired Granny Annie’s Bar & Kitchen, Panorama Room offers a particularly upscale experience that’s impossible to find elsewhere on the island. Housed within the 18th floor of the Graduate New York, this polished venue is the hottest nightlife destination to grace the streets of Roosevelt Island, offering gorgeous 360-degree views and high-end craft cocktails during evening hours as well as an incredible brunch program throughout the weekend.

Legendary producer Keith Shocklee, one of the original members of Public Enemy and the Bomb Squad debuted his skills as this week’s star DJ at Starchild Rooftop in NYC. The veteran musician proved he still has what it takes on the one’s and two’s playing hit after hit—several of which he produced himself.

As guests danced to ‘Looking At The Front Door’ and other golden era classics, Shocklee blended each hit with longtime-friend Kid from Kid N Play making an appearance. Contributing to a monumental era in hip hop creating a timeless sound that changed hip hop. From Fight the power, BBD (I Thought It Was Me)?—- to creating soundtracks to classic films like House Party, Juice and Mo’ Money, Shocklee has been stamped as an innovator in hip hop.

Located in the heart of Times Square at the top of the boutique-style Civilian Hotel, Starchild Rooftop boasts stunning 360 degree views of New York City. Controlling the helm at the rooftop, Stevie Guttman curates a Wednesday night reminiscent of the late 90’s club scene. Starchild Rooftop and Rock and Soul Records Presents meshes the flavor from Rock and Soul Records with the luxury of NYC nightlife. Founded in 1975, Rock and Soul DJ Equipment and Records is one of the oldest DJ shops in the world. They’ve worked with industry pioneers like Grandmaster Caz, Grandmaster Flash, Kool Herc, DJ Red Alert, Grand Wizard Theodore, Tony Touch, DJ Skribble to name a few. Now their mission is to curate a room highlighting industry legends atop the swankiest new rooftop in NYC.

From handcrafted cocktails—including shareable cocktails and a variety of espresso martinis, Starchild Rooftop boasts two outdoor patios and a retractable rooftop that can become a fully open-air space with panoramic views of the New York skyline.

Open seven nights a week, Starchild is Hell’s Kitchen’s newest hotspot for corporate and intimate events. Don’t miss the classic weekly Wednesday night “Rock and Soul Records Rooftop Sessions”  from 6:30-9:30pm. Enjoy a cool crowd and party under the stars.

They may not admit it, but not even New York City locals tire of experiencing the iconic skyline from epic heights—so rooftop bars are the places to be in The Big Apple, no matter the time of year. On a summer night in particular, though, there’s nothing quite like catching up with friends while taking in panoramic views of sights like the Empire State Building, the Hudson River, the East River, Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, the Chrysler Building, or the Brooklyn Bridge. And don’t even get us started on NYC sunsets from up above.

Whether you’re looking for an upscale bar to sip Champagne high above the city streets in Manhattan or a laidback Brooklyn spot to enjoy beer and the game with friends, Gotham has no shortage of excellent perches across the city. We’ve compiled a list of the 40 best indoor and outdoor rooftop bars that offer breathtaking views, delicious drinks, small bites (or, in some cases, full menus), and an impeccable atmosphere. Some of them even have pools. So whether you’re a local or a visitor, these sky-high lounges are sure to leave a lasting impression.

1

Starchild

Located on the 27th floor of the Civilian Hotel, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The inclusion of bottle service and caviar options matches the posh, upscale design of the space. For those looking to make a late night of it, the menu includes an entire section devoted to espresso martinis—including the Scorch, made with habanero, Reposado tequila, and coconut cold brew.

305 West 48th Street, starchildrooftop.com

2

The Highlight Room

The Highlight Room, perched atop the Moxy Lower East Side, is the Tao Group’s attempt to bring their notable L.A. hotspot to New York City. To match the elegant aesthetic of the original, the space is filled with lush greenery, an olive tree, paper lanterns, chandeliers, and red velvet seating. Meanwhile, an outdoor terrace has views of landmarks, like the Empire State Building, on full display.

145 Bowery, taogroup.com

3

Electric Lemon

Electric Lemon, Equinox Hotel’s restaurant, also features an 8,000-square-foot rooftop terrace with serene views of the Hudson River and the city skyline. The space offers dinner and a weekend brunch and is a perfect way to escape the city below to refresh and recharge. The hotel, located in the trendy Hudson Yards development, is an upscale destination, perfect for special occasions.

33 Hudson Yards, 24th Floor, electriclemon.com

4

Beast & Butterflies

Far above Times Square’s noise, Beast & Butterflies offers small bites and cocktails within the M Social Hotel. The space features a wraparound terrace, offering a unique vantage point of the neon glow below. The space boasts two different menus of craft cocktails—appropriately named Beast & Butterfly, respectively—so you can order to suit your mood.

226 West 52nd Street, milleniumhotels.com

5

PHD Rooftop Lounge

Situated in the Dream Downtown, this chic venue from TAO Group flaunts Italian Portoro marble, Macassar ebony, nickel-finished walls, and amber Venini glass chandeliers that make this hotspot an ideal location for an unforgettable penthouse party. Shareable plates from chef Mike Armstrong pair well with bespoke cocktails, bottle service, and live DJs to create one of NYC’s hottest rooftop dance parties.

355 West 16th Street, taogroup.com

6

LilliStar

This newcomer to the Brooklyn bar scene is set in the Moxy Williamsburg hotel and features indoor and outdoor seating with views of the Williamsburg Bridge and the Manhattan skyline. The space aims to blend Indo-Aussie beach culture with the unmistakable energy of Brooklyn, offering an array of tropical-inspired cocktails, along with Balinese barbecue. Those looking to share can try one of LilliStar’s large-format cocktails, which incorporate tropical fruits and Southeast Asian spices.

353 Bedford Avenue, marriott.com

7

CATCH NY

This Meatpacking District mainstay offers a substantial bottle service program for anyone who wants a flashy night out. On weekends, expect top DJs to keep the party rocking. Catch has a seafood-heavy menu of poke bowls, shrimp, and crab rolls. A 3,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor penthouse with floor-to-ceiling windows highlights the views of the Meatpacking District below.

21 9th Avenue, catchrestaurants.com

8

Nubeluz

For a classic hotel bar experience, Nubeluz in the Ritz-Carlton Nomad has the classic old-school elegance of a hotel bar, but with the lofty views of a trendy rooftop bar. Light bar bites from renowned chef José Andrés elevate the spot even further, with lux takes on everything from grilled cheese to bagels and lox. The panoramic view of the city can be enjoyed from two different outdoor terraces.

25 West 28th Street, nubeluzbyjose.com

9

Ophelia

Found atop the Art Deco Beekman Tower along the East River, Ophelia includes a wraparound terrace with a 360-degree view of Brooklyn and Manhattan. The space pays homage to its Art Deco roots with plenty of classic cocktails and reinventions of old favorites. On weekends, DJs spin hits to make the space feel more like a downtown lounge than an uptown cocktail joint.

3 Mitchell Place, 26th Floor, ophelia.com

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

10

cloudM

At 20 stories high, cloudM towers over the Lower East Side, giving visitors a panoramic view of the neighborhood. The outdoor deck has couches and benches for lounging during warmer months, while the warmly-lit bar is lined with cozy plush couches for enjoying a cocktail during the winter. The space also features dumplings from nearby favorite Nom Wah Tea Parlor.

189 Bowery, citizenm.com

11

Magic Hour

Magic Hour, 18 stories above Times Square, is touted as New York’s largest indoor and outdoor all-season rooftop bar and lounge. The outdoor space is divided into two sides, with the East Terrace overlooking landmarks, like the Empire State Building, and featuring an elegant garden-party vibe. In contrast, the West Terrace is more playful, including one seating area that rotates slowly like an antique carousel. The space even includes an extra-mini golf course.

485 7th Avenue, 18th Floor, moxytimessquare.com

12

Harriet’s Rooftop

Located right next to the Brooklyn Bridge, this rooftop bar in the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge has stunning views of both the bridge, Lower Manhattan, and the East River. The bar offers craft cocktails and small bites while you enjoy the sunset over the city. An indoor lounge space can be found one floor below, with equally impressive views and nightly DJs to keep the party going.

60 Furman Street, 1hotels.com

13

Darling

Perched along Billionaire’s Row, a whopping 47 stories above Central Park, Darling features a main indoor lounge and a lush, green outdoor patio with expansive views of the park below. DJs play a mix of funk and pop tracks, giving the space a playful vibe next to its magnificent, penthouse-like views. Small bites, like petite portobello burgers and basil arancini, round out the menu here.

36 Central Park South, darlingrooftop.com

14

The Ready Rooftop Bar

This East Village rooftop hopes to be your replacement for one of the most covetable NYC amenities around: a backyard. The Ready is decorated with outdoor lawn furniture and incorporates milk crates into the design, giving the bar a laidback, house party vibe—perfect for enjoying happy hour, featuring margaritas and tacos. Adding to the backyard aesthetic are tableside coolers filled with a mix-and-match selection of local beers and canned craft cocktails and wine.

112 East 11th Street, moxyeastvillage.com

15

The Rooftop at the Rockaway Hotel + Spa

Boasting a massive 6,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, this rooftop bar is located on the sixth floor of Queens’ beachfront Rockaway Hotel and Spa. The bar features panoramic views of both Manhattan and the Atlantic Ocean, making it the perfect place to end a long beach day or have a drink after a relaxing visit to the spa.

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive, therockawayhotel.com

16

Le Jardin at Baccarat Hotel New York

Take in the lush scenery—tall trees, manicured topiaries, vibrant blooms, and a treillage wall cloaked in ivy—at this lavish rooftop bar in the Baccarat Hotel. While drinking high-end cocktails from beautiful Baccarat glasses in the garden-themed space, you can also sample lauded chef Gabriel Kreuther’s mouthwatering dishes and small bites.

28 West 53rd Street, baccarathotels.com

17

The Skylark

The Skylark has a breathtakingly beautiful view of the Hudson River, the Empire State Building, and Times Square from its 30th-floor terrace near Times Square. The space is only open to the public on weekdays, but you’ll get a stunning view of the area, should you opt for a drink here during an after-work outing. Enjoy the view year-round from outdoor and indoor lounges, with floor-to-ceiling windows in the colder months.

200 West 39th Street, theskylarknyc.com

18

JIMMY

Located at the top of the ModernHaus SoHo, the JIMMY is a sleek and modern offering that has been recently redesigned, but still boasts some of the city’s best, most unobstructed views. Relax on one of the chaise lounges on the terrace or dip in the rooftop pool during pool party weekends in the summer.

15 Thompson Street, jimmysoho.com

19

Bar Blondeau

This French-style bar comes from the talents behind Brooklyn hotspots Le Crocodile and Chez Ma Tante. The seafood-forward menu is accompanied by a natural wine selection and a creative list of zero-proof drinks. Coupled with unobstructed Manhattan views, it’s a top pick for a fun and casual night out in Brooklyn.

80 Wythe Avenue, 6th Floor, barblondeau.com

20

The Daintree

This swanky rooftop is set on the top floor of Hotel Hendricks. Guests can enjoy the cozy 180-seat interior or head to the 70-seat outdoor terrace, which has plenty of opportunities for Empire State Building photoshoots. The menu here is martini-heavy, and the bites shouldn’t be missed.

25 West 38th Street, 29th Floor, daintreenyc.com

21

Westlight

Notable chef Andrew Carmellini brought his talents to a Williamsburg rooftop when he opened Westlight in 2016. Set on the 22nd floor of the William Vale Hotel, the bar is the ideal place to take in an iconic NYC summer sunset—with a cocktail in hand.

111 North 12th Street, westlightnyc.com

22

Panorama Room

A special spot, thanks to its Roosevelt Island location, Panorama Room is set on the 18th floor of the Graduate Hotel. Drinks range from traditional (a white Negroni or a Manhattan riff) to incredibly unique (try the Roosevelt Island Yacht Club, a blend of fig-infused gin, Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz gin, Lillet Blanc, cinnamon liqueur, vanilla, botanicals, and lime.)

22 North Loop Road, graduatehotels.com

23

Dear Irving on Hudson

Reservations are required at this 41st-floor, retro-chic boîte, so don’t miss out. As Manhattan’s highest open-air hotel bar and lounge, Dear Irving on Hudson has creative cocktails, a sommelier-crafted wine list, and plenty of tasty small plates, like filet mignon bites.

310 West 40th Street, dearirving.com

24

Gallow Green

This hidden rooftop bar, above the ever-popular “Sleep No More,” has been a favorite for years, thanks to its ethereal garden environment. While it’s most popular in the spring and summer, the bar transforms into a cozy “lodge” during the fall and winter. It’s an excellent spot for a date or simply a casual afternoon or evening.

542 West 27th Street, mckittrickhotel.com

25

Broken Shaker

Regarded as one of the best hotel bars (rooftop or otherwise), Broken Shaker uses creative housemade syrups, infusions, and fresh juices to craft perfectly balanced drinks. The cute retro-inspired space is only open to walk-ins, so you don’t need to worry about making a reservation weeks in advance.

23 Lexington Avenue, freehandhotels.com

26

The Roof at PUBLIC

This energetic bar on the rooftop of the Lower East Side’s chic PUBLIC Hotel has 360-degree panoramic city views, making it a great place for a sunset drink or a comfortable co-working space during the day. It’s an even better late-night hotspot once renowned local and international DJs hit the decks.

215 Chrystie Street, publichotels.com

27

Mr. Purple

Mr. Purple, boasting a pool on the 20th floor of Hotel Indigo, is a long-standing rooftop favorite for locals and visitors alike. The menu has a range of classic cocktails and innovative creations, like a frozen Casamigos cranberry margarita.

80 Orchard Street, 15th Floor, mrpurplenyc.com

28

Somewhere Nowhere

There’s never a dull moment at Somewhere Nowhere, a rooftop hotspot on the top of the Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel. With various events, happy hours, and top-class DJs, it’s a great place to gather friends for a night out—and there’s even a pool.

112 West 25th Street, somewherenowherenyc.com

29

Refinery Rooftop

The crown jewel of Midtown’s Refinery Hotel, this buzzy rooftop draws everyone from fashionistas for brunch to men in suits making a happy hour toast. The retractable roof means it’s an ideal spot for year-round imbibing. Reservations are a must.

63 West 38th Street, refineryhotelnewyork.com

30

Serra by Birreria

Eataly’s charming rooftop space is reminiscent of the Italian countryside and changes with the seasons, offering a rotating rustic menu featuring Italian specialties. Enjoy an aperitivo with fresh pasta or a cocktail with a plate of burrata. The 15th-floor terrace is covered, and while it still offers a nice view, it is more suited for those looking to soak up the atmosphere of the space.

200 5th Avenue, eataly.com

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

31

The Fleur Room

The glass-encased bar at the Moxy Chelsea features a 360-degree view of Manhattan from its 35th-story perch, including views of everything from the Statue of Liberty to the Chrysler Building. In the opulent space, you’ll find rich floral fabrics, a copper-clad bar, a water droplet chandelier, and—to drive the theme home—a massive vintage disco ball taken from the infamous L.A. club Vertigo. The glass walls of the Fleur Room are also retractable, so during the warmer months, the bar can be transformed into an al fresco dining space.

105 West 28th Street, moxychelsea.com

32

Rooftop Reds

A reservation-only rooftop spot inside the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Rooftop Reds is one of the more unique sky-high experiences in the city. The massive space, which features its own vineyard, is more akin to a large backyard party, with guests playing cornhole, laying in hammocks, and admiring the view of the city across the river. Their own wines aside, they also serve a selection of beers.

63 Flushing Avenue, Building 275, rooftopreds.com

33

Night of Joy

The rooftop patio of this grandma-chic Brooklyn cocktail lounge is open seasonally from spring through fall and is a great neighborhood option for sipping frozen margaritas with friends. There is not much of a view from the top, but you’ll be here mainly for the incredible botanical cocktails and the musician-curated DJ nights.

667 Lorimer Street, nightofjoybar.com

34

Greenpoint Beer & Ale Co.

One of Brooklyn’s largest breweries is also home to a sprawling, casual rooftop where guests can try an assortment of beers, ranging from ales and lagers—all made in-house. Food options skew towards comfort food (think fried chicken, a soft pretzel with housemade beer cheese, and crispy French fries).

1150 Manhattan Avenue, greenpointbeer.com

35

Overstory

A dazzling contemporary bar in Manhattan’s Financial District, chic Overstory is set on the 64th floor and has a wraparound terrace, ideal for enjoying the views on a beautiful evening. Drinks here are elevated, relying on ingredients like bonito, peat, and husk cherry to develop complicated flavor profiles.

70 Pine Street, 64th Floor, overstory-nyc.com

36

Bar Cima

This intimate rooftop bar in the Grayson Hotel is mere steps away from Bryant Park and boasts views of the East and Hudson Rivers and many nearby skyscrapers. In addition to an expansive list of drinks made with authentic Mexican ingredients developed in collaboration with certified mezcalier Courtenay Greenleaf, Bar Cima has a luxurious, polished Mexican ambience with velvet jewel-toned seating and custom-made stone tables.

30 West 39th Street, barcimanyc.com

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

37

LoHi

This relaxed Brooklyn rooftop calls itself a “rooftop bar for just how you are feeling”—which is typically pretty laid-back. Bartenders are relaxed and friendly, shaking up drinks like the Magenta Mountain (rum, blackberry, sage, lime, and amaro). And the food is good too.

314 Scholes Street, lohibk.com

38

Castell

Cozy Castell is steps from Times Square, but it feels worlds away once you’re tucked away next to its fireplace or granite bar. The menu evokes a timeless feel by focusing mainly on classics with a twist, like a Negroni infused with strawberry Aperol. Next time you want a night out, Mad Men-style, embrace the sophistication of Castell.

260 West 40th Street, castellnyc.com

39

Make Believe

Atop the Sixty LES Hotel, Make Believe has stunning city views and a great outdoor patio for lounging on warm nights. The lush, green décor is right at home with the bar’s tiki-inspired menu, while DJs worldwide regularly come to perform.

190 Allen Street, sixtyhotels.com

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

40

Lost In Paradise

Long Island City’s proximity to Manhattan means you can be sure the view will be top-notch at this Queens bar. On Tuesdays, there’s a bottomless taco deal where you’ll be able to sample as many tacos from the menu as you like—a perfect pairing with their Berry Bloom cocktail (made with fresh berries, triple sec, and lime juice) or their Smokey Margarita made with mezcal.

11-01 43rd Avenue, lostinparadiserooftop.com

Once the weather warms up, it’s officially rooftop season in New York. Whether you’re craving inventive, Instagram-worthy cocktails (perhaps with a popsicle, or complete with a side of a movie night with epic views) there are rooftop locales for every type of adventure. If you don’t feel like making the journey all the way to a hotel for your waterfront or cityscape photos, check out one of these ultra-glam rooftops, found all across New York City.

Subscribe to Observer’s Lifestyle Newsletter

Starchild Rooftop

Venture to Midtown West for this rooftop, perched on the 27th story of the Civilian Hotel. Starchild is outfitted with a convenient retractable roof, so you can take in the views even if the weather is misbehaving—it also allows this spot to be open year-round, so you don’t have to wait for summer weather. One big standout at Starchild is the music; on weekends, DJs play house, funk, soul and disco. Grab cocktails at this Hell’s Kitchen establishment before you head to a Broadway show or unwind at happy hour.

Apotheke NoMad

The beloved Chinatown speakeasy-style bar Apotheke opened up a new location in NoMad last summer, complete with a year-round rooftop terrace. A private elevator leads up to this penthouse lounge, where you can take in views of a wall composed of stained glass windows, which were designed by the late Christopher Tierney. Then, make your way out to the rooftop terrace, where there’s a garden full of plants and herbs that you can personally sample in your drink, thanks to the inventive “Garden-to-Glass” cocktail menu. There’s also a raw bar serving up sustainable caviar, making it a chic locale for your next date night.

Catch Roof

This buzzy, celebrity-favorite Meatpacking seafood restaurant, which also has locations in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Aspen, boasts a glassed-in penthouse lounge and rooftop terrace. The restaurant’s outdoor dining is back just in time for summer with seasonal specials; stop by for cocktails or come during the day to enjoy the $28 per person prix fixe brunch on the roof while taking in panoramic views of the city.

Studio Bar at The Whitney Museum

For a little culture with your cocktails, head to the Whitney’s rooftop for impeccable views and, yes, drinks. The famous art museum stays open late on Friday nights from 7 pm to 10 pm, and allows visitors to view new and old exhibits before hitting the bar, which has an indoor-outdoor set-up in case of inclement weather. Whether you’re a tourist or a local looking for more excitement, this makes for the perfect summer evening out.

Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar

This rooftop bar, on the 16th floor of the Conrad New York Downtown hotel, went viral for its Instagram-famous “poptails,” which took the city by storm when the outlet first opened over a decade ago. The buzz has only grown in the years since; the boozy, artisanal ice pops are served in Prosecco or Rose that’s on tap, and the flavors change monthly—past options include the Raspberry Moscow Mule and Lemon-Jasmine Gin. This downtown bar also gives folks dreamy views of the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty, for the ultimate photo-ready moment. Walk-ins are also welcome here, making it an ideal spot for post-work sunset cocktails.

Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown

If you’re hoping for photo-worthy city views but are also craving an activity, you’re in luck, because this Midtown movie club is finally open for business. Clueless, Selena, Dirty Dancing and American Psycho are among the films including in this summer’s line-up, so you can enjoy cocktails while taking in the views *and* watching a mix of blockbuster and cult classic movies, using wireless headphones. Food (and obviously popcorn) is also available.

Soho House New York and Dumbo House

This private members’ club in Meatpacking is famous for its star-studded rooftop pool, which received a full-on makeover last year, and now boasts two fully renovated bars. If you’re a member (or just know someone who is), you can lounge poolside while sipping custom cocktails. For those who are ready to get out of Manhattan, head over to Dumbo House, the latest New York City Soho House offshoot, which offers epic views of the Brooklyn waterfront. Take in the skyline from the rooftop pool or the sundeck, or head directly to the bar if you don’t feel like wearing a bathing suit. Enjoy the all-day club menu (and cocktails, of course) on the outdoor terrace.

The Highlight Room

This garden in the sky is 16 stories high at the Moxy Lower East Side, towering over the intersection of Broome and Bowery. The Tao Group bar is the perfect spot to start your big night out on the LES, and offers specialty cocktails like the “Sorry I’m Not Sorry” (made with hibiscus and rhubarb), which you can sip while taking in views of the Empire State Building. You can also enjoy snacks like sweet potato waffle fries and spicy tuna tartar. Definitely meet friends for happy hour here, as the Highlight Room offers after-work cocktail specials from Wednesday through Saturday, from 5 pm to 9 pm.

New York may be a long way from Kentucky, but Starchild Rooftop ensured that no one’s derby attire would go to waste! The rooftop was the ideal place to celebrate on Saturday, right in the heart of the city! Located at the Civilian Hotel in Hell’s Kitchen, the spot featured Mint Juleps, shareable cocktails, food specials, and Live Jazz at Rosevale Kitchen.   

The first Saturday in May is an iconic occasion for fashion lovers and horse racing fans. While the Kentucky Derby was taking place in Louisville, Kentucky, the rooftop was buzzing with excitement as guests gathered to celebrate the iconic horse race. The spot offered a unique and luxurious experience for those who wanted to indulge in the Derby Day festivities. With stunning views of the city skyline, guests enjoyed live entertainment, delicious food, and refreshing cocktails, all while watching the race on multiple big screens.

On Wednesday, we visited Starchild Rooftop for their season party and enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres, including Pizza, Charcuterie boards, and refreshing, handcrafted drinks!

Unlike most rooftops in the city, Starchild Rooftop is operational year-round and open seven nights a week, so the fun never has to end! The restaurant boasts two outdoor patios and a retractable rooftop that can quickly transform to become a fully open-air space with panoramic views of the New York skyline and Hudson River. Starchild Rooftop is the neighborhood’s newest destination for Happy Hour, corporate events, and late-night revelry in a safe and secure environment.

Thursdays through Saturdays, DJs, special guest artists, and original programming elevate the energy as guests commune, dance, and party under the stars. Rockwell Group’s design celebrates the energy of the surrounding neighborhood and a trending cocktail list featuring five types of Espresso Martinis, shareable table-side drinks, and an OnlyFans Martini can be found on the menu.

Hear more about Starchild Rooftop and visit yourself here!

Here are a few place in NYC that are excited to host Kentucky Derby-themed happenings and specials in celebration of the races.

Refinery Rooftop

It’s time to grab your seersucker blazers, floral dresses, bright pastels, and wide-brimmed hats as the Refinery Rooftop saddles up with its annual Kentucky Derby Party viewing party

On Saturday, May 6th (3:30 pm – 7:00 pm ET), attendees can channel their Derby-est look and join in on the following:

• Open bar
• Passed appetizers and desserts
• Live entertainment and streaming of the Derby
• A contest for the best dressed Derby outfit

The highly-anticipated event also features a signature cocktail created specifically for this event, live DJ’s and music, and hours of Derby fun. 

Civilian Hotel

Celebrate the Kentucky Derby on May 6th in your best derby attire at Starchild Rooftop and Rosevale Kitchen and Cocktail Room located at the Civilian Hotel in Hell’s Kitchen. Mint Juleps, shareable cocktails and food specials will be available beginning at 5pm at Starchild Rooftop and from 9pm-11pm as well as Live Jazz at Rosevale Kitchen.

ROOF at Park South

ROOF at Park South has recently opened for the season and will host a Derby Soirée this Saturday, May 6th, to celebrate the Kentucky Derby in style. 

This event will be a partnership between the rooftop, Woodford Reserve Bourbon, and Herradura Tequila, providing guests with a selection of delicious beverages, including the classic julep. In addition to the delicious drinks, there will also be Derby-inspired bites and exciting giveaways, including gift cards to Sweetbriar, the sister restaurant. To top it off, the rooftop will host a friendly competition for the best dress outfit, so be sure to inform your reader to wear their best hats and seersucker fits!

The event will run from 4 pm to 8 pm, and tickets are available on Resy for $55.

The Bar at Moynihan Food Hall

Guests can sit back with an Old Forester Mint Julep in their own souvenir cup and watch the big race on The Bar at Moynihan Food Hall giant screens. Pair the Mint Juleps with some delicious Loaded Fries from Jacob’s Pickles and you’re celebrating the Derby like a real Southerner. DJ’s keep the party going all day and night.

Sean Christie, the pioneering hospitality executive and CEO of Carver Road Hospitality, is set to debut his company’s first New York City concept Starchild Rooftop Bar & Lounge on the 27th floor of CIVILIAN Hotel (305 W. 48th Street). ONE Management models christen the new Hell’s Kitchen haunt with a private Halloween party on Oct. 27. Opening to the public on Oct. 28, DJ Rich Medina will keep the party moving. On Oct. 29, eight-time Grammy winner Anderson .Paak brings his alter ego DJ Pee .Wee — who has entertained audiences at Paris Fashion Week, Met Gala, and beyond — to spin in the intimate 100-person rooftop space. Monday’s Halloween night “27 Club” bash on the 27th floor pays macabre homage to famous rockers who perished at the age of 27.

Starchild was designed by the renowned architecture and design firm Rockwell Group and its award-winning founder David Rockwell. Operational year-round, it boasts two outdoor patios and a retractable rooftop that can quickly transform to become a fully open-air space with panoramic views of the New York skyline and Hudson River. Open seven nights a week, Starchild will be the neighborhood’s newest destination for Happy Hour, corporate events and late-night revelry in a safe and secure environment. Thursdays through Saturdays, esteemed DJs, special guest artists and original programming will elevate the energy as guests commune, dance, and party under the stars.

“There is an insatiable appetite for rooftops in Manhattan,” says Christie. “Starchild is the convergence of the spirit and culture of the burgeoning neighborhood, and our success and passion for creating intimate and exhilarating experiences.”

Starchild joins a portfolio of Carver Road Hospitality concepts that include Las Vegas’ Carversteak and Salt Lake City’s Flanker Kitchen + Sports Club. Christie, who shepherded numerous successful nightlife and restaurant concepts at premier Las Vegas Strip resorts prior to forming Carver Road Hospitality, will next open Rosevale Kitchen + Cocktail Room, a first-floor quintessential New York restaurant and second-floor cocktail parlor, at CIVILIAN Hotel in mid-November.

“The partnership with CIVILIAN was born from Jason Pomeranc and I seeing the need for more aspirational food and beverage concepts in the neighborhood. David Rockwell’s involvement was also a big draw,” says Christie. “With Starchild and Rosevale Kitchen + Cocktail Room, we can program and curate experiences from cocktail hour through dinner and then late night.”

Created by world-renowned mixologist Francesco Lafranconi, Carver Road Hospitality’s vice president of beverage & hospitality culture, Starchild’s beverage program features specialty cocktails, an exceptional selection of espresso martinis, large format cocktails and bottle service. Rooftop light bites include caviar and chips, a three charc board, pizza, and more.

Sin City is coming to the Big Apple.

Carver Road Hospitality, the lifestyle company behind Las Vegas hotspot Carversteak, will unveil its first-ever project in New York City this fall, Page Six has exclusively learned.

The Starchild Rooftop Bar & Lounge will open at the end of October at the Civilian Hotel in the Theater District, a Carver Road Hospitality representative told us.

“There’s an insatiable appetite for rooftops in Manhattan,” CEO Sean Christie said in a statement. “Starchild is the convergence of the energy and culture of the emerging neighborhood and our success and passion for creating intimate and exciting experiences.”

We were told that Anderson .Paak will be throwing a Halloween party at the new bar.

Corbis via Getty Images

Also read: Las Vegas secure first seed but will they stop Chicago from repeating themselves?

We were told that Anderson .Paak will be throwing a Halloween party at the new bar.

Getty Images for SelvaRey

Up Next Close

The former Victoria’s Secret angel and her teenage daughter posed…

Designed by acclaimed architect David Rockwell, the lounge offers specialty cocktails and bottle service, and guests can enjoy light bites like caviar and fries, charcuterie, and pizza.

“Starchild will be the newest neighborhood destination for happy hour, corporate events and nightly celebrations in a safe environment,” the representative shares. “Thursday through Saturday, acclaimed DJs, special guest artists and original programs will raise the energy as guests communicate, dance and party under the stars.”

The hospitality group will also open a restaurant in the same hotel next month.civilianhotel/Instagram

We’re told the hospitality group will be celebrating the opening of the lounge with not one, but two extravagant Halloween parties.

One Management models will inaugurate the lounge on October 27th with a private Halloween party before the venue opens to the public the next day.

Sean Christie, CEO of Carver Road Hospitality, tells Page Six, “There’s an insatiable appetite for rooftops in Manhattan.” Getty Images for Carversteak

Then on October 29th, Anderson .Paak will DJ as his alter ego Pee .Wee for a Halloween party called 27 Club, which will celebrate famous rockers who have died at the age of 27 including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain and Amy Winehouse.

Carver Road Hospitality is behind celebrity hotspot Carversteak in Las Vegas.carversteakkasvegas/Instagram

We have also been told that Carver Road Hospitality will be opening a restaurant, Rosevale Kitchen + Cocktail Room, at the Civilian Hotel.

“Chef Jeannie Glass’s menu of American and French dishes with global influences borrows from the immigrant cultures that make up the fabric of New York City,” says the representative at Rosevale, which will open in mid-November.

Sin City is coming to the Big Apple.

Carver Road Hospitality, the lifestyle company behind Las Vegas hotspot Carversteak, will debut its first-ever project in New York City this fall, Page Six has exclusively learned.

Starchild Rooftop Bar & Lounge will be opening at the Civilian Hotel in the Theater District in late October, a rep for Carver Road Hospitality tells us.

“There is an insatiable appetite for rooftops in Manhattan,” CEO Sean Christie says in a statement. “Starchild is the convergence of the energy and culture of the burgeoning neighborhood, and our success and passion for creating intimate and exhilarating experiences.”

The lounge, designed by renowned architect David Rockwell, will offer speciality cocktails and bottle service, and patrons can snack on light bites including caviar and chips, charcuterie and pizza.

“Starchild will be the neighborhood’s newest destination for happy hour, corporate events and late-night revelry in a safe and secure environment,” the rep shares. “Thursdays through Saturdays, esteemed DJs, special guest artists and original programming will elevate the energy as guests commune, dance and party under the stars.”

We’re told the hospitality group will celebrate the lounge’s opening with not one but two extravagant Halloween parties.

One Management models will christen the lounge with a private Halloween bash on Oct. 27 before the venue opens to the public the next day.

Then, on Oct. 29, Anderson .Paak will deejay as his alter ego Pee .Wee for a Halloween party dubbed “27 Club,” which will celebrate famous rockers who have died at the age of 27, including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain and Amy Winehouse.

We’re also told Carver Road Hospitality will be opening a restaurant, Rosevale Kitchen + Cocktail Room, in the Civilian Hotel.

“Chef Jeannie Glass’ menu of American and French fare with global twists borrows from the immigrant cultures that make up the fabric of New York City,” the rep shares of Rosevale, which will open its doors in mid-November.