Food & Drink

5 min read

20 Best Rooftop Restaurants in NYC (Places You Won't Want to Miss!)

Explore the top 20 rooftop restaurants in NYC for an elevated dining experience. From sushi to comfort food, find your perfect spot with stunning views.

Tobi Miles
October 13, 2022
20 Best Rooftop Restaurants in NYC (Places You Won't Want to Miss!)

New York City is one of the most popular destinations in the United States for travelers from across the globe. Whether you’re coming to NYC from New Jersey or Paris, you’ll find all sorts of exciting ways to spend your time (and money). Rooftop restaurants in NYC are among the favorite ways to mix and mingle with friends or snag a romantic evening.

You can find rooftop bars that offer light bites and tapas, like Castell Rooftop Lounge or Top of the Strand. Try Japanese cuisine at Sushi Lab or indulge in Dominican comfort food at Santiago’s Beer Garden. Some places, like The Skylark, are more about the vibe and creative cocktails, while others, like The Cabin NYC, deliver satisfying, down-home meals.

No matter where your New York City adventure takes you, you need to eat. Luckily, you’ll never run out of options in this fabulous city that never sleeps. You can find fantastic restaurants every few steps and even 20 stories or more above the ground.

1. The Press Lounge

The Press Lounge

Address:  653 11th Ave 16th Floor, New York, NY 10036

Phone Number: (212) 757-2224

The Press Lounge is an extension of the PRINT Restaurant, located 16 stories below in the Ink48 Hotel. It opened in 2010 and offers 360-degree views of the Hudson River and NYC.

What To Eat At The Press Lounge

You can kick back and enjoy some classic bar bites like roasted nuts and marinated Gordal olives. You can also dive into some house-made hummus or order a tray of local cheeses and meats. If you have a sweet tooth, try the ginger chocolate chip cookies.

Why Should You Eat Here?

It’s all about the atmosphere and cocktails at this swanky lounge, with fantastic bar bites to satisfy your appetite. The creative collection of beverages will have you coming back to try new things.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: House Hummus 
  • Cuisine: Small Plates, Bar Bites

2. Haven Rooftop

Haven Rooftop NYC / Facebook

Address:  132 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036

Phone Number: (212) 466-9000

Established in 2012, you’ll find Haven Rooftop in the heart of Times Square, atop the Sanctuary Hotel. The owners of the hotel, a father-son team, started the 2,500-square-foot venue that offers amazing views of Midtown and Times Square. 

What To Eat At Haven Rooftop

Dig into tasty Tuna Tartare Wontons or a tender filet mignon. Give the Havenly Chicken a try, or indulge in a lobster roll. Other favorites are penne pasta, white pizza, and buffalo wings. For dessert, try the Tiramisu. 

Why Should You Eat Here?

The location makes this rooftop eatery the perfect place to grab dinner and drinks before heading to Broadway. It’s also a great place to relax and unwind with friends for a good time. Plus, the area is glassed-in, which helps when you’re high up on breezy days.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟1/2
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: Havenly Chicken
  • Cuisine: American

3. RH Rooftop Restaurant New York

OpenTable

Address:  9 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014

Phone Number: (212) 217-2210

This sophisticated rooftop eatery sits atop the 90,000-square-foot RH New York design gallery. It boasts glittering chandeliers, lush greenery, and an upscale atmosphere.

What To Eat At RH Rooftop Restaurant New York

Order the RH Burger and opt to add thick-cut pork belly bacon and avocado. Other favorites are the lobster roll, broiled salmon, and shaved ribeye on garlic bread. You can also choose from several delicious sides, including truffled fries and Yukon Gold potato puree.

Why Should You Eat Here?

This posh rooftop restaurant offers fantastic skyline views in a glamorous setting. It’s the ideal place for a sophisticated night out on the town or a refreshing lunch. The service is top-notch, and the overall experience is enjoyable.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: RH Burger
  • Cuisine: American

4. VERSA

Versa Restaurant / TripAdvisor

Address: 218 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001

Phone Number: (646) 850-2850

This relatively new New York hot spot opened in 2018, offering an ideal location near Madison Square Garden and an impressive happy hour. It quickly grew into a full-service restaurant with multiple bars.

What To Eat At VERSA

Cavatelli Primavera Pasta, the Versa Burger, and Maine lobster are some standouts on the menu. People also love smashed avocado toast, Margherita flatbread, and Baja Mahi Tacos. For dessert, indulge your taste buds with chocolate lava cake or NY cheesecake with berry compote.

Why Should You Eat Here?

You’ll find a pleasant atmosphere, excellent service, and a well-rounded menu featuring favorites with a twist. There are also regular music performances, and the indoor/outdoor rooftop area makes this a win-win, no matter the weather.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟1/2
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: VERSA Burger
  • Cuisine: American, Gastropub

5. Gallow Green

Sharon Allaway / Pinterest

Address:  542 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001

Phone Number: (212) 904-1880

Located on top of the McKittrick Hotel, Gallow Green has been serving fabulous food and drinks since 1939. It offers a delightful garden setting, making it feel like a little getaway in the middle of the city.

What To Eat At Gallow Green

Try the fried calamari or cheese curds if you want to enjoy some small bites and a few drinks. Order the grilled salmon, McKittrick Burger, or chicken paillard for a filling dinner. They also feature a taco bar and raw bar featuring oysters, shrimp cocktail, and yellowfin tuna Crudo.

Why Should You Eat Here?

You’ll get amazing service, fabulous food, and impressive cocktails in a slice of NYC history. They also offer a Champagne Brunch (with bottomless champagne) and a wide assortment of seasonal cocktails. If you go for brunch, you’ll also get to indulge in a sweet buffet filled with mini cinnamon buns, croissants, chocolatines, and more.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟1/2
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: McKittrick Burger
  • Cuisine: American, Breakfast, Brunch

6. Spyglass Rooftop Bar

Spyglass Rooftop Bar / Pinterest

Address:  47 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018

Phone Number: (212) 730-0538 

You’ll find this luxurious rooftop bar perched atop the Archer Hotel. It offers excellent views of the Empire State Building.

What To Eat At Spyglass Rooftop Bar

Try some bacon-wrapped jalapenos, WarSteiner cheese fondue, or ahi tataki bites to share with the table. Impossible sliders and the AKB Burger are other favorite picks. Don’t miss out on their unique dessert, the Salted Caramel Bourbon Shake -- it’s sure to add a punch to your meal.

Why Should You Eat Here?

You’ll certainly want to make reservations before heading to his hotspot. It delivers stunning views, incredible service, and the perfect atmosphere to relax and converse with friends. Top-shelf liquor and tasty cocktails add to the overall upscale experience.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟1/2
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: Salted Caramel Bourbon Shake
  • Cuisine: American, Bar Bites

7. Sushi Lab

Sushi Lab / Facebook

Address: 132 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036

Phone Number: (212) 432-0000

Sushi Lab started as indoor dining in February 2019, but they quickly took things to a new level with the rooftop experience. It offers creative bites with cocktails, Japanese whiskey, and sake.

What To Eat At Sushi Lab

Why not try an assortment of 10 to 15 courses with the Chef’s Selection or The Lab Experiment? Kick off your meal with charred edamame or avocado fries, and then try Lab Classics, like the Gold Digger -- Wagyu, marinated tuna, seared toro, uni, scallops, and caviar.

Why Should You Eat Here?

Sushi Lab features high-quality fish and ingredients in all of its creative dishes. It offers an intimate, breezy atmosphere and friendly service. It’s a relaxed, laid-back experience that lets you unwind and refresh.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Gold Digger
  • Cuisine: Japanese, Sushi

8. Elsie Rooftop

Elsie Rooftop

Address:  1412 Broadway, New York, NY 10018

Phone Number: (646) 834-2291

This lavish rooftop venue opened in 2018. It’s named for Elsie de Wolfe, an actress, decorator, and author, who created the first penthouse in the 1920s.

What To Eat At Elsie Rooftop

This rooftop bar and eatery offers seasonal bites that provide the freshest ingredients. Try the black Angus beef sliders or cold poached lobster sliders. Other favorites are the truffled grilled cheese and Thai chicken kabobs.

Why Should You Eat Here?

The indoor/outdoor space allows you some options when it comes to seating, so you can make it work with the weather. The outdoor area is also covered and features heat lamps. It’s elegant and trendy, and the service is exceptional. You’ll enjoy refreshing cocktails and tasty bites, which all come together into one enjoyable outing.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟1/2
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: Truffled Grilled Cheese
  • Cuisine: American, gastropub

9. Castell Rooftop Lounge

OpenTable

Address: AC Hotel, 260 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018

Phone Number: (929) 284-3761

This charming rooftop bar opened atop the AC Hotel New York Times Square in 2018. It offers fabulous views of the Manhattan skyline. 

What To Eat At Castell Rooftop Lounge

Castell offers some tasty flatbreads and other light bites, like chicken skewers and lobster roll sliders. You can also kick back with a cocktail and order a charcuterie spread for the table.

Why Should You Eat Here?

You’ll enjoy the elegant and classy atmosphere and exceptional service. There’s also a happy hour from 4 to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. In addition to a wide selection of fancy cocktails, you can also indulge in decadent desserts, like a warm chocolate chunk cookie sundae.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Summer Squash Flatbread
  • Cuisine: American, Tapas

10. The Cabin NYC

The Cabin NYC / Twitter

Address:  205 E 4th St, New York, NY 10009

Phone Number: (212) 777-0454

This charming spot opened in 2019, with an atmosphere that transports visitors to the Poconos. It offers delicious cuisine and a full-service bar.

What To Eat At The Cabin NYC

Order glazed bacon steak or bacon-wrapped dates. Don’t miss out on their amazing fried chicken, or try the veggie burger if you’re not into meat. Wrap up your meal with some yummy deconstructed apple pie.

Why Should You Eat Here?

The rustic vibe of this trendy eatery offers a different yet refined vibe from other rooftop hotspots. You can enjoy a delightful brunch or romantic dinner. There’s also a happy hour available from 4 to 8 pm on Tuesdays through Fridays, and you’ll always find friendly service.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Fried Chicken
  • Cuisine: American, Comfort Food, Breakfast, Brunch

11. Santiago’s Beer Garden

Santiago's Beer Garden / Facebook

Address:  2337 1st Ave., New York, NY 10035

Phone Number: (332) 244-2921

This popular rooftop restaurant in Harlem opened in 2018. The owner was born and raised in the Bronx, working in restaurants since he was 17.

What To Eat At Santiago’s Beer Garden

You can’t go wrong with stewed chicken or garlic shrimp. Other top picks are empanadas, fried pork chops, and stewed beef. You can also go to Santiago’s for brunch and bottomless mimosas.

Why Should You Eat Here?

You’ll find a vibrant, friendly atmosphere perfect for having conversations and relaxing with pals. The incredible ambiance makes you feel like you’ve stepped out of New York City into a unique oasis. You’ll also find you get generous portions so that you can take a bit of your experience home with you.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 1/2
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Stewed Chicken Pollo Guisado
  • Cuisine: Dominican Comfort Food

12. Rooftop 93

Rooftop 93 / Twitter

Address: 93 Bowery, New York, NY 10002

Phone Number: (212) 966-9033

Discover Rooftop 93 on the top two floors of the luxurious Wyndham Garden Hotel. It opened in 2015 and offers impressive views of the city.

What To Eat At Rooftop 93

Empanadas, pulled pork nachos, fried chicken wings, and shrimp lollipops are just a few stand-out options. Quesadillas or spring rolls are other favorites, or just have some fries and a drink or two. 

Why Should You Eat Here?

This rooftop establishment is completely enclosed if you want to experience amazing city views without worrying about the weather. They have unique drink options and food choices, all with reasonable prices (always a plus in NYC).

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Pulled Pork Nachos
  • Cuisine: American, Gastropub, Bar Bites

13. City Vineyard

CityVineyardNYC / Twitter

Address:  233 West St, New York, NY 10013

Phone Number: (646) 677-8350

This extension of City Winery offers food and wine on tap, all in a rooftop wine garden. It opened in 2017 at Pier26.

What To Eat At City Vineyard

Try the crispy chicken sandwich or lobster roll. The City Winery Burger is a favorite, served with garlic herb aioli, brie, and red-wine braised onion. If you prefer a vegan option, go with the Impossible Burger. Follow your meal with creme brulee or triple chocolate cake.

Why Should You Eat Here?

You get a lot more than a restaurant at City Vineyard. You also can enjoy a full wine bar, live music, and unobstructed views of the Hudson River. They also feature a seasonal menu, so you can discover different options when you visit throughout the year.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: City Winery Burger
  • Cuisine: American

14. Westlight

OpenTable

Address:  111 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249

Phone Number: (718) 307-7100

Twenty-two stories above the city, you’ll find Westlight. The chef, Andrew Carmellini, whips up delightful dishes inspired by street foods across the globe.

What To Eat At Westlight

Try some of the shrimp dumplings or charred octopus skewers. Other highlights are chicken empanadas, duck carnitas tacos, salmon, and burrata. Of course, you need to wash it all down with some creative and tasty cocktails.

Why Should You Eat Here?

You’ll find several different opinions when it comes to seating, including the outdoor rooftop and a roof area with grass. The staff is attentive and friendly, and you’ll get ample food portions. You also get incredible views all around you to enjoy as you dine.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟1/2
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: Charred Octopus Skewers
  • Cuisine: Tapas, Small Plates

15. Electric Lemon

OpenTable

Address:  33 Hudson Yards 24th Floor, New York, NY 10001

Phone Number: (212) 812-9202

This trendy venue is in the Equinox Hotel, and the 8,000-sq ft terrace offers a photo-worthy atmosphere. You’ll find breathtaking views of the Hudson and the city.

What To Eat At Electric Lemon

The menu is seasonal, so you’ll find different items depending on when you go. You can stop in for some light bites or enjoy breakfast or brunch. Try the potato flatbread or beef tartare, or treat your tastebuds to New-Fashioned Deviled Crab.

Why Should You Eat Here?

It’s an elegant, swanky vibe that’s pretty irresistible, especially with all the incredible views. The food is yummy, and the drinks are delightful. You can also indulge in custom-made mocktails if you’re looking for an alcohol-free night.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟1/2
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: Potato Flatbread
  • Cuisine: American, Breakfast, Brunch

16. Social Drink and Food

Booking

Address: 570 10th Ave #3001, New York, NY 10036

Phone Number: (917) 239-6560

This hip venue is on the largest hotel rooftop in New York, at YOTEL. They offer a weekend brunch and dinner every day.

What To Eat At Social Drink and Food

Order a chicken burger, Malawach sandwich, or breakfast burger. The creamy wild mushroom pasta is a popular menu item, and Ricotta toast and French toast are other favorites.

Why Should You Eat Here?

The colorful and bright atmosphere creates a laid-back but sophisticated vibe, perfect for kicking back with a cocktail or two. They offer lots of different seating options, including couches and picnic tables. You’ll find plenty of appealing options on their cocktail menu.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟1/2
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Creamy Wild Mushroom Pasta
  • Cuisine: Pizza, Breakfast, Brunch

17. 230 Fifth

230 Fifth

Address:  230 5th Ave, New York, NY 10001

Phone Number: (212) 725-4300

230 Fifth has been entertaining and feeding visitors since 2006. It’s one of (if not the) largest New York rooftop bars.

What To Eat At 230 Fifth

You’ll find lots of popular bar staples here to enjoy with your cocktails. The fried chicken sandwich is a favorite go-to for many visitors. The 230 Fifth Nachos, Margherita pizza, and all-beef sliders are other menu faves. You can also grab an Impossible Burger or hummus plate if you want a vegetarian option.

Why Should You Eat Here?

It’s a great place to enjoy a night out with friends, a casual lunch, or even a date night. The chic atmosphere is very NYC, and you can also enjoy live music. Unlike many other venues, they also are welcoming to walk-ins.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: Fried Chicken Sandwich
  • Cuisine: American, Gastropub

18. Top of the Strand

OpenTable

Address:  33 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018

Phone Number: (646) 368-7032

This respite in the middle of the city is on the 21st floor of the Marriott Vacation Club Pulse℠. It also features a retractable glass roof, providing stunning skyline views throughout the year.

What To Eat At Top of the Strand

You could easily go to Top of the Strand for some cocktails and dessert; order the triple chocolate mousse cake. Order the house cheese selection or some white truffle cheddar popcorn if you want something more savory or salty. 

Why Should You Eat Here?

Top of the Strand delivers an intimate experience with amazing views and delicious cocktails. It creates the perfect setting for a romantic date night or a sophisticated night out on the town.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟1/2
  • Cost: $$
  • Specialty Dish: Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
  • Cuisine: Bar Bites

19. Refinery Rooftop

Laura Wells / Pinterest

Address: 63 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018

Phone Number: (646) 663-5951

Established in 2013, Refinery Rooftop earned USA Today’s title of #1 Rooftop Bar for three years in a row. It’s located in the Refinery Hotel.

What To Eat At Refinery Rooftop

You can grab brunch, including chicken and waffles, or a warm cinnamon roll skillet. If you’re looking for a few tasty bites to complement your lunch or dinner, try the fried chicken wrap, Maine Lobster Mac & Cheese, or Crispy Calamari. 

Why Should You Eat Here?

If you’re looking for a fabulous NYC rooftop experience, you need to check out the one that’s been voted the best multiple times. It’s the perfect mix of an urban, upbeat atmosphere with chic, refined elegance. You’ll witness spectacular views, including the Empire State Building, and enjoy pleasant service.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟1/2
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: Fried Chicken Wrap
  • Cuisine: American, Brunch

20. The Skylark

The Skylark NYC

Address:  200 W 39th St, New York, NY 10018

Phone Number: (212) 257-4577

Floating 30 stories above Times Square, The Skylark delivers perfect views of many city highlights. It features impressive floor-to-ceiling sliding windows to provide unobstructed views.

What To Eat At The Skylark

Of course, the highlight of The Skylark’s menu is the refined, creative cocktail selection. But if you’re hungry, you’ll also find some satisfying bar bites, including Mac & Cheese Cupcakes and Ricotta and Squash Flatbread. Other food options include a cheese and charcuterie board and a tapas sampler.

Why Should You Eat Here?

If you want an upscale, lush glimpse into NYC nightlife that’s only open to those 21 years old and older, this is the place to go. It’s super-refined and sexy and provides intimate seating with lots of hidden nooks. Also, even though it’s a rooftop bar, the windows keep things enclosed when the weather is not so pleasant. Therefore, you can enjoy this venue all year long.

  • Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
  • Cost: $$$
  • Specialty Dish: Mac & Cheese Cupcakes
  • Cuisine: Tapas, Bar Bites
Tobi Miles
Article updated:
March 28, 2024
A nomadic wordsmith savoring the world's flavors and penning stories that turn every journey into an epic.
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