The best rooftop bars in New York

You don’t have to be a bibliophile to appreciate the Bookmarks Lounge at the Library Hotel, a glamorous, glass-enclosed patio that’s as cosy as can be. The literary brand is apparent throughout the menu, with on-point drinks like The Tequila Mockingbird taking centre stage. It makes for a charming spot to finally dive into that novel you’ve been carrying around, but we wouldn’t blame you for simply sitting back and savouring the mixologist’s innovative concoctions.

For 1930s Shanghai in the heart of Manhattan, head to the 23rd floor of the Peninsula Hotel. Here lies Salon de Ning, an enchanting New York City rooftop bar gazing out to bustling Fifth Avenue. Inspired by Shanghai socialite Madame Ning and her global travels, the fascinating decor features details such as intricate Chinese screens and antique Venetian mirrors. Opt for the Ning Sling, a balanced mix of gin, lychee and passion fruit puree.

The Refinery Rooftop is a chic combination of exposed brick, shimmering rope lights, and rustic wood details. By day, New Yorkers flock here for chef Jeff Haskell’s lunch menu, featuring delectable items like Grilled Hanger Steak Flatbread and Maine Lobster Mac n’ Cheese. Then there are the cocktails, which include all the classics along with fun rose-inspired in-house specialities. A retractable glass roof means you can enjoy the first-rate Midtown views from the terrace all-year long.

For one of the most expansive views of the Manhattan skyline, you’ll need to head to Brooklyn. More specifically, you’ll want to go straight to the 22nd floor of the William Vale Hotel wherein lies the ever-sophisticated Westlight. This stylish restaurant and lounge boast a wraparound terrace, dotted with comfy sofas and stationary binoculars that further elevate the rooftop bar experience. Lavish bites by Andrew Carmellini and smart cocktails like the Mile de Fuego (a mix of mezcal, Tromba reposado, Mike’s hot honey, passionfruit, and lemon) round out the excellent experience.

There’s no better cap to an afternoon spent sauntering through Central Park than The Roof, a covered terrace tucked away at the top of Viceroy Central Park Hotel. With its walnut-and-leather sofas, brass details, and captivating images of the sea and sky by renowned photographer Dalton Portella, the yacht-inspired theme is easily distinguishable yet always classy. Come here to enjoy the leafy views over a bottle of wine (or two.)

For an upscale, 1970’s take on the classic pub atmosphere, head to one of Soho’s most sought-after spots: Jimmy. With 360-degree views, working fireplaces in the winter and a refreshing pool deck in the summer, Jimmy truly has it all. Brunch is always a good idea here, as is Taco Tuesday. Don’t skimp on the cocktails; many feature syrups and bitters prepared in-house from the Chef’s herb garden.

It’s no secret that The Met is home to some of the world’s most phenomenal art exhibitions—and no gay New York City trip is complete without a visit. Once you’ve gotten your full dose of art and culture, head to the rooftop for sweeping Central Park views at the Met Roof Garden Bar and Martini Bar. Opening hours follow that of the museum (and it can get busy with tourists), but it remains an alluring spot to sip a martini while enjoying the verdant surroundings.

While one usually wouldn’t equate wine country with New York City, Rooftop Reds is an innovative working urban vineyard (and hidden gem of a picnic spot) that aims to merge viticulture with the urban agriculture movement. It’s an ambitious project—and we’ll certainly cheer to that.  Learn about upstate wine producers, relax with a bottle of vino over a game of cornhole, or simply stop by for a happy hour and to enjoy the views of Brooklyn and lower Manhattan. Advanced reservations are required.

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