New York City‘s skyline is truly a marvel, and there’s no better way to soak it all in than from a rooftop restaurant. With a wide array of options, each boasting its own unique ambiance and culinary delights, NYC’s rooftop dining scene a true feast for the senses. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local in search of off-the-beaten-path experiences in the city, a rooftop adventure promises to be a memorable addition to your itinerary. You’ll not only enjoy awe-inspiring views but also savor the authentic flavors of the city. Here, I’ve rounded up some of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC.
Best Rooftop Restaurants in NYC
1. Manhatta
Nestled in the heart of the Financial District, 60 stories above the bustling streets, this sleek and stylish rooftop features panoramic windows that offer truly breathtaking views of Downtown Manhattan. Divided into a dining room, chef’s counter, and bar, Manhatta embodies the spirit of a true New Yorker, drawing inspiration from the unmatched energy of the city. At Manhatta, guests can indulge in New American cuisine. The evolving menu takes traditional techniques and locally sourced ingredients to unexpected and delightful places. The food is accompanied by an extensive selection of international wines and spirits, as well as carefully crafted ‘neighborhood’ and signature cocktails. Visit the Manhatta dining room for an upscale yet relaxed dinner. Choose from the à la carte menu or opt for the Chef’s Tasting Menu. Alternatively, enjoy some delectable bites and exquisite drinks at the bar.
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Location: 28 Liberty St, 60th floor, New York, NY 10005
2. Saga
Situated near the apex of 70 Pine Street’s iconic Art Déco building, Saga is a restaurant of unparalleled beauty and distinction. Boasting an array of meticulously curated dishes, such as five artfully presented fluke creations, caviar, and dry-aged duck, Saga offers a dining experience that is both unique and exquisite. The restaurant also provides some of the most breathtaking views in NYC, adding an extra layer of splendor to any visit. Saga is one of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC for capturing memorable moments, especially for special occasions.
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Location: 70 Pine St 63rd Floor, New York, NY 10005
3. Fulton
Located among the lowest of these rooftop restaurants in NYC, The Fulton boasts one of the most expansive views. From here, guests can marvel at the glistening East River, a striking tableau of two bridges, and the Brooklyn coastline in the distance. While the menu leans heavily towards seafood, it also offers a diverse selection of land-based preparations to cater to various preferences. The restaurant is dedicated to serving top-quality seafood in an idyllic waterside setting.
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Location: 89 South St, New York, NY 10038
4. Laser Wolf
Perched atop The Hoxton in Williamsburg, Laser Wolf offers a chic and vibrant rooftop dining experience. This eatery specializes in Israeli-style cuisine and treats diners to breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Laser Wolf features a charming terrace. In warmer months, the space is open and breezy, while in winter, it’s comfortably shielded from the elements. You’ll find three types of seating options at Laser Wolf: the dining room, chef’s counter seats, and the bar. The dining room, especially those near the windows, provides the best, unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline across the East River. Meanwhile, the rotating chef’s counter seats and bar spots offer a unique perspective with both kitchen and skyline vistas. Laser Wolf is a tribute to Israel’s dynamic culinary scene, drawing inspiration from the country’s famed skewer houses, known as ‘shipudiya’. This influence is reflected in a menu centered around the charcoal grill. Laser Wolf is known for its lively and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot. To secure one of the coveted window seats, it’s advisable to make reservations well in advance. Otherwise, be prepared for a short wait if you opt for walk-in bar spots.
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Location: 97 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
5. Electric Lemon
Nestled in Hudson Yards, one of New York City’s newest and most fashionable neighborhoods, Electric Lemon is a rooftop restaurant that exudes elegance and style. Occupying the 24th floor of the esteemed Equinox Hotel, this venue is truly a marvel in more ways than one. Its sleek and expansive dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows, complemented by a rooftop garden. Here, you’ll find a monumental Jaume Plensa sculpture, fire pits, water features, and of course, fantastic views overlooking the Hudson River and the iconic NYC skyline. Electric Lemon’s mission is to offer “clean, conscious cuisine that puts flavor at the forefront.” They specialize in serving fresh and seasonal American dishes, available for weekday lunches, daily dinners, and rooftop brunches on the weekends. For the best experience, it’s advisable to make reservations for both dinner and rooftop brunch, and try to secure a table on the terrace. However, even if you find yourself at the bar, it’s worth noting that it offers a fine vantage point to enjoy your meal.
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Location: 33 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
6. The Press Lounge
Next on this list of rooftop restaurants in NYC is The Press Lounge! Perched atop the Ink48 Hotel, it offers panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Midtown skyline. This upscale rooftop lounge provides an elegant setting for sipping craft cocktails and enjoying small plates. The modern design, combined with the stunning views, creates an ambiance that’s both chic and inviting.
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Location: 653 11th Ave 16th Floor, New York, NY 10036
7. Beast & Butterflies
In the heart of the bustling Times Square, where the energy is electrifying but sometimes calls for a retreat, you’ll find the haven that is Beast & Butterflies rooftop restaurant and bar. Perched on the 7th floor of the sleek M Social Hotel Times Square New York, this rooftop strikes a balance between intimate and social. It features an indoor glass perch and a spacious wrap-around outdoor terrace, offering an urban escape with unobstructed views of one of NYC’s most iconic areas. From early morning until late at night, Beast & Butterflies treats guests to a variety of culinary delights. To complement the cuisine, you’ll find a curated selection of signature cocktails, premium spirits, wine, and craft beers. Beast & Butterflies is a year-round destination. In the warmer months, it offers live music and vibrant entertainment during the ‘Summer Club’ season. As the temperature drops, guests can enjoy a cozy winter experience, complete with rooftop curling—an excellent way to work up an appetite.
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Location: 226 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
8. Westlight
Located atop the chic William Vale hotel in Brooklyn, Westlight NYC offers an unrivaled view of the skyline from its 22nd-floor vantage point, just outside of Manhattan. This rooftop establishment, a harmonious blend of both indoor and outdoor spaces, provides guests with a stylish lounge featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as a wrap-around terrace for al fresco dining. While Westlight leans towards being a rooftop bar with a formidable selection of classic and original cocktails, craft beer, and rare spirits, its array of small plates is so impressive that it could easily constitute a full dinner. Perfect for sharing, these bites are ideal for both intimate gatherings and larger groups. With its breathtaking views, stylish décor, and vibrant atmosphere, Westlight is a versatile rooftop spot suitable for a variety of occasions.
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Location: 111 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
9. STK Rooftop
Right in the heart of the vibrant Meatpacking District, STK Steakhouse Downtown NYC offers a sophisticated and dynamic fine dining experience that extends all the way to the rooftop.Located on the stylish 4th floor, STK Rooftop seamlessly blends bar, lounge, and table seating, providing a captivating view of the Meatpacking District, with a front-row seat to both the Hudson River and the High Line. Equipped with a retractable glass enclosure, this upscale, intimate, and charming rooftop is available for elevated outings year-round. The rooftop menu showcases both classic STK cocktails and signature dishes, spanning from raw bar selections to indulgent Surf & Turf, along with a beef program that spotlights the highest quality, delectable steaks. Open daily for refined and lively dining and drinks, STK Rooftop also offers a weekend brunch. This makes it a perennially prime spot to elevate your NYC experience.
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Location: 26 Little W 12th St, New York, NY 10014
10. RH Rooftop Restaurant
Tucked away in the Meatpacking District, the upscale furniture emporium Restoration Hardware offers more than just five floors of stylish home furnishings. It boasts a stunning sixth-floor rooftop restaurant, aptly named RH Rooftop Restaurant. Resembling the floors below, the top-level venue is adorned with opulent marble surfaces, glittering chandeliers, and elegant fountains, all surrounded by lush greenery.The seating options seamlessly merge the indoors with the outdoors. Guests can choose to dine inside the garden-like glass-and-steel atrium or opt for the open-air terrace, which affords the finest views of downtown Manhattan. They serve classic American fare. With its sophisticated and chic ambiance, RH Rooftop Restaurant is an excellent choice for a business lunch or a special occasion dinner. For those seeking elevated RH dining experiences in other parts of the US, one can also find exceptional rooftop restaurants in Dallas among their offerings.
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Location: 9 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014
11. SERRA by Birreria
Perched atop the sprawling Italian emporium Eataly in the Flatiron district, you’ll discover the rooftop garden known as La Birreria. In recent years, it’s been transformed into the pop-up restaurant SERRA, thus adopting the name SERRA by Birreria. Thanks to its retractable roof, this rooftop restaurant is open year-round, providing a vibrant and colorful setting in the warmer months, and a cozy, snow-covered atmosphere in the winter. The SERRA menu evolves with the seasons but always maintains a strong connection to rustic Italian flavors, featuring ingredients sourced from local and regional producers. Be prepared for a lively and spirited atmosphere amidst a bustling crowd. Given its popularity as a notable NYC rooftop restaurant, reservations are highly recommended, particularly for dinner.
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Location: 200 Fifth Ave, New York, 10010
12. Sushi Lab
A very Instagrammable restaurant right in the heart of Times Square, Sushi Lab is one of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC perched atop the luxurious boutique Sanctuary Hotel, sharing its vicinity with the Haven Rooftop Bar. Adorned with hanging greenery and basket lights, the outdoor terrace offers a captivating view of Midtown. The atmosphere strikes a balance between intimate and charming. While there are plenty of standard tables available, there are also eight seats at the chef’s counter for a more interactive experience. Here, you can savor both inventive takes on traditional sushi. It’s an ideal rooftop spot for a delightful lunch, a romantic dinner, or simply whenever you’re seeking an amazing Japanese dining experience.
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Location: 132 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036
13. VERSA NYC
Located just a stone’s throw away from Madison Square Garden in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, VERSA NYC is a contemporary rooftop restaurant with an extensive operating schedule. From early breakfast to late dinner, this chic and roomy venue provides seating both indoors and out on the rooftop terrace. Thanks to a retractable roof, the terrace can be enjoyed on bright and breezy summer days, as well as on cozy winter nights. Positioned on the fifth floor of the Renaissance New York Midtown Hotel, VERSA may not be towering, but it still boasts impressive views of the Empire State Building and the Midtown skyline. Given its generous hours of operation, VERSA offers distinct menus for breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner. However, they all draw inspiration from modern American gastro cuisine. Whether you’re seeking a sun-drenched lunch, a lively dinner, or a vibrant NYC rooftop brunch to kick off the weekend, VERSA is a fantastic choice.
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Location: 218 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001
14. 230 Fifth
230 Fifth is New York’s most expansive outdoor rooftop garden, celebrated as one of the city’s most iconic rooftop destinations. It’s renowned for its lively nightlife, bustling weekend brunches, and distinctive winter igloos. However, it’s worth noting that 230 Fifth also offers an impressive food menu that caters to guests throughout the day. Although they clarify that they are primarily a bar with a food service, rather than a dedicated rooftop restaurant, you can confidently visit 230 Fifth for a late lunch or dinner, assured that you won’t leave hungry. This is a year-round destination, thanks to the fully enclosed indoor lounge with sweeping panoramic windows. The outdoor terrace is equipped with heaters and charming rooftop igloos, ensuring it remains a sought-after outdoor/indoor venue regardless of the season. Nestled amidst truly enchanting views of the Manhattan skyline, with the towering Empire State Building as a commanding centerpiece, guests can delight in a diverse menu. On weekends, you can also relish in a fantastic NYC rooftop brunch.
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Location: 230 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10001
15. Bar Blondeau
Situated on the sixth floor of the magnificent Wythe Hotel, Bar Blondeau is a modern and stylish French-inspired rooftop bar and restaurant. Exuding a high level of chic sophistication, the rooftop seamlessly combines an elegant indoor lounge with panoramic windows, and a generous seasonal outdoor terrace adorned with lush greenery. Perhaps the most enchanting aspect is the unobstructed and truly magical views spanning the East River and the iconic Manhattan skyline, both from inside and outside the venue.It boasts a menu prominently featuring seafood with discernible French, Spanish, and Portuguese influences.
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Location: 80 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
16. Gallow Green
Aptly referred to as a ‘rooftop garden,’ this charming rooftop restaurant offers a serene retreat surrounded by lush plants and foliage, with glimpses of the Manhattan skyline in view. Perched atop the McKittrick Hotel in Chelsea, Gallow Green is a veritable oasis of greenery amidst the urban sprawl. While there are venues with more dramatic views, Gallow Green holds its own and is well worth a visit, thanks in no small part to its delightful ambiance. The atmosphere is fun, casual, and vibrant, with many seating options arranged around communal benches, offering opportunities to strike up conversations and make new friends. The dinner menu at Gallow Green is refreshingly simple, featuring a selection of salads, pizzas, and sandwiches. The McKittrick Hotel is renowned for its immersive theatrical experience, ‘Sleep No More,’ making Gallow Green an ideal choice for pre- or post-show dining and cocktails. If you’re in the mood for a more leisurely affair, don’t miss the famed weekend brunch buffet, offering a delightful blend of delectable food and live entertainment. The rooftop garden at Gallow Green is seasonal, accessible only during the warmer months. During the winter season, the rooftop transforms into The Lodge, offering a cozy mountainside ski cabin atmosphere where you can enjoy delectable fare and drinks.
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Location: 530 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
17. Panorama Room
Perched on the 18th floor of the illustrious Graduate Roosevelt Island, situated at the southern tip of the island, the Panorama Room offers a truly unique rooftop experience in NYC. This rooftop exudes a dramatic, opulent, and retro-chic ambiance, enveloped by awe-inspiring 360° views spanning the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and the surrounding boroughs. Guests can savor these vistas both from the panoramic windows within the plush interior lounge adorned with velvet, marble, and chrome, and, even more remarkably, from the expansive open-air terrace. Here, one can indulge in an array of small bites or opt for selections from the Raw Bar. Its rooftop typically welcomes guests for drinks from the afternoon well into the evening. On weekends, you can also relish a delightful rooftop brunch.
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Location: 22 N Loop Rd, New York, NY 10044
18. Daintree
Inaugurated in 2021, the chic Daintree Rooftop & Lounge stands as one of the latest rooftop restaurants in NYC. Occupying the top floor of Midtown’s Hotel Hendricks, this rooftop seamlessly combines a verdant indoor lounge that offers an outdoor ambiance, with a spacious and genuinely open-air rooftop terrace. Facing southward, the rooftop treats guests to some of the most spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, including an unobstructed perspective of the Empire State Building. Infusing an Aussie flair into the NYC rooftop experience, Daintree presents a menu that is both playful and tantalizing. Perfect for a lighter dinner option, the delectable offerings at Daintree pair beautifully with selections from their curated menu of cocktails and beverages. Perhaps indulge in one of their exceptional Martinis (they offer an abundance of choices), or opt for something from the wine list, with a distinctly Australian influence.
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Location: 25 W 38th St 29th Floor, New York, NY 10018
19. Refinery Rooftop
Refinery Rooftop is one of the most versatile rooftop restaurants in NYC, welcoming guests year-round. Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, it’s housed within the five-star Refinery Hotel. This venue boasts an industrial chic design, exuding fashionable and vibrant vibes. Beyond its stylish ambiance, it provides breathtaking views of the Empire State Building and the iconic Manhattan skyline. By day, Refinery offers a full lunch menu. As the sun sets, the focus shifts towards small bites, expertly crafted signature cocktails, and setting the right vibes. With an emphasis on health-conscious, natural, and sustainable ingredients, Refinery Rooftop also hosts an exceptional rooftop brunch every weekend.
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Location: 63 West 38th Street, New York, NY 10018
20. Republica
Spanning three floors, Republica is a vibrant establishment encompassing a restaurant, lounge, and rooftop. It infuses the Inwood neighborhood of Uptown Manhattan with a generous dose of Dominican flair. From the sleek and stylish lower levels to the lush and colorful rooftop, Republica welcomes guests year-round on all floors, thanks to the availability of covers and heaters on the rooftop. Open daily for dinner, and during weekends also for rooftop brunch, the extensive menu features a wide array of gourmet Dominican dishes. This includes an impressive selection of meats and seafood expertly prepared and served with authentic Latin sides. You can easily extend your evening after dinner and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
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Location: 160 Dyckman St, New York, NY 10040
21. Cantina Rooftop
Located in the vibrant Hell’s Kitchen area of Manhattan, Cantina Rooftop is a lively year-round rooftop restaurant and bar that seamlessly blends authentic Mexican cuisine with sweeping panoramic views of the NYC skyline. Boasting a climate-controlled retractable glass rooftop, Cantina provides a spacious venue suitable for all weather conditions. The atmosphere is characterized by a fun, friendly, and vibrant ambiance, making it an ideal spot for all occasions. The rooftop bar serves up a wide selection of fun and colorful signature cocktails. On weekends, you can also head to Cantina for brunch.
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Location: 605 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036
22. Alma
This Brooklyn restaurant offers a delightful taste of regional Mexican cuisine in a lively and casual atmosphere. Spread across three floors, including a ground floor bar and midlevel dining room, it’s the top floor rooftop terrace that truly sets this venue apart along Columbia Street’s restaurant row. With the rooftop terrace outfitted with heating for a year-round experience, it’s particularly enchanting during the spring and summer months. This is when the rooftop opens up for al fresco dining, offering breathtaking and panoramic views of the Lower Manhattan skyline. Open for dinner most nights of the week, as well as for a weekend rooftop brunch, Alma’s menu boasts a creative reinterpretation of traditional Mexican fare. Complementing the cuisine is a well-curated drink menu featuring an array of Margaritas and other refreshing cocktails, as well as an extensive selection of tequilas and mezcals.
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Location: 187 Columbia St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
23. Social Drink & Food
Situated on the 4th floor of YOTEL, Social Drink & Food boasts the largest outdoor hotel space in NYC. The rooftop is not only expansive but also provides exceptional views of Times Square and the neighboring skyscrapers. Open daily for both lunch and dinner, this hotspot is a popular choice for after-work gatherings. Additionally, Social Drink & Food hosts a variety of events, including rooftop cinema screenings, miniature golf, and more. The rooftop menu at Social Drink & Food features an array of modern American dishes. With a relaxed and laid-back setting, most of the seating on the rooftop terrace consists of comfortable sofas and communal benches. While it may not be the spot for an upscale dinner, it’s an ideal location to enjoy some delightful food and drinks with a spectacular view. During the warmer seasons, the terrace is open, but the rooftop bar and restaurant also share the floor with the indoor venue Green Fig. Here, guests can savor New American cuisine from breakfast through late-night, year-round.
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Location: 570 10th Ave. New York, NY 10036
Map To The Best Rooftop Restaurants in NYC
Check out the map below to navigate with ease the rooftop restaurants in NYC that have been mentioned in this list.
When it comes to rooftop restaurants in NYC, the options are as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re seeking a lively bar scene, a romantic garden oasis, or a chic lounge, these rooftop restaurants offer something for every palate and preference. So, elevate your dining experience and take in the mesmerizing views that only New York City can provide.
