20 Cant-Miss Best Rooftop Restaurants in NYC

Have you ever wanted to dine 25 stories high while having a fantastic view of the empire state building or the hustle and bustle of New York City? Then this list of rooftop restaurants in NYC is for you.

For a city like New York, with many skyscrapers and high-rise buildings, one of the best ways to enjoy and appreciate its magnificence is an uninterrupted 360-degree aerial view.

It doesn’t even matter if you are a guest or a native New Yorker looking to have a fantastic date night or catch up with friends, you will love it here.

Whether you want a view of the Chrysler Building, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, or the empire state building, these rooftop restaurants offer some of the city’s best views while having a great meal.

Rooftop restaurants in NYC

1. Westlight

If you want to have great cocktails with friends overlooking the spectacular Manhattan skyline, Westlight is the place for you.

Atop The William Vale, on the 22nd floor, sits Westlight, a rooftop bar with expansive, 360-degree views of New York City.

This is a beautiful modern room, bright and airy, with a refined industrial vibe.

The room opens into an ample outside dining/drinking terrace on three sides, providing one of the most impressive Manhattan east-side views ever.

In fact, the view is overwhelming and endless. The size of the NYC skyline can be felt here like no other place.

The menu offers a good variety, and the drinks are great too. It’s cozy inside during winter and so much fun outside as it gets warmer.

The beet hummus, the guacamole, and the charred eggplant dumplings are great; try them.

You can also check out the octopus, duck tacos, and a few of their drinks.

In addition to rare spirits, craft beer, and wine, the bar program offers an exciting menu of original and traditional signature cocktails.

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

2. Beast & Butterflies

If you have always wanted to see times Square from a different perspective, the Beast & Butterflies is one the best rooftop restaurants in NYC to do so.

The bar is in the lobby of the M Social Hotel, with an outdoor deck that offers great views.

You can see the crowds, cars, and sightseers from inside the M Social Hotel.

There are also mounted binoculars for you to zoom in closer to the action below.

Similarly, there are games to play and plenty of seating if not reserved.

A glass-enclosed interior bar and rooftop patio at Beast & Butterflies NYC allow guests to enjoy the expansive New York City skyline while inside.

All the food on the menu is bar food with a somewhat elevated twist; the sliders are created with crab cakes, and the mac & cheese has lobster bits.

To enrich your evening, stop for a bottle of wine, carefully crafted drinks, and snacks.

Additionally, every day from 7 to 11 am, Beast & Butterflies also offers a complete American buffet breakfast.

Address: 226 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019, United States

3. RH Rooftop Restaurant

RH Rooftop Restaurant is one the best rooftop restaurants in NYC for romantic date nights or catching up with the girls.

So RH stands for Restoration Hardware, a furniture distributor in the Meat Packing District.

Once you enter, you take the glass elevator all the way to the top and register your name with the host there if it’s a walk-in.

To get to the glass elevator in the back, you enter on the first floor and pass through the showroom.

It is astonishing to see all of the good furnishings in showcase rooms as you ride the elevator to the top floor. It screams uniqueness!

Don’t expect the usual breathtaking vistas you get from some of the other tall buildings with rooftop restaurants because the building isn’t that tall.

Yet they make up for it with their superior service and sophisticated menu.

In addition, the rooftop’s outside area is tastefully decorated.

In fact, with marble surfaces, a chandelier over each table, fountains, and large windows overlooking the terrace and downtown Manhattan, the dining room shares many of the same designs as the levels below.

While the menu is a tad limited, there are many vegetarian, gluten-free, and keto-friendly meals.

Try the RH Burger, Burrata; It’s the perfect combination of charred bread, milky burrata, and roasted tomatoes.

You can also check out the Ribeye Sandwich, one of the best entrees on the menu.

You can make reservations up to 30 days in advance.

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

4. Bar Blondeau

Bar Blondeau, a French-style bar designed by culinary partners Aidan O’Neal and Jake Leiber, is located on the sixth floor of the Wythe Hotel (Le Crocodile, Chez Ma Tante).

At the upscale Le Crocodile in the Wythe Hotel, ascend six floors to the glistening Bar Blondeau.

The bar offers a seafood-focused menu with French, Spanish, and Portuguese influences.

The food here is excellent for sharing, so don’t be put off by the seemingly small section of the menu!

The Tuna Tartare and Muscles are a delicious seafood choice, and you can also try the Japanese Chicken.

Ensure you don’t miss the cocktails: the Frosé is a refreshing drink, albeit quite small.

Additionally, the menu changes regularly, but some heavy hitters include Braised Leeks, Tuna Belly Confit, and Scallops.

Address: 80 Wythe Ave 6th Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States

5. Sushi Lab

The name says it all; Sushi. If you love sushi and enjoy rooftop views, then sushi lap rooftop is one of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC to go to.

Set in the Sanctuary Hotel, sushi Lab offers an intimate dining experience.

When the restaurant started, the idea was to offer a distinctive eating experience where guests worldwide could enjoy regular sushi, and everything was prepared in front of their eyes.

The restaurant lives up to the “lab” name. It’s in a weird location on top of a hotel, and you have to go through winding hallways, up an elevator, and then up two sets of stairs to get there.

But then you get to this beautiful garden on the roof with an amazing look.

The aesthetics here are impressive, with the rooftop lighting and faux grass plants along the walls and roof.

Sushi Lab offers memorable dining experiences and specializes in omakase, sashimi, nigiri, and other Japanese delicacies.

The omakase is DIVINE. So many delectable flavors, and everything is described to you as they serve it.

Although you will get a nice view of the office building across the street, don’t expect sweeping views of NYC’s skyline.

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

6. Daintree

Do you agree that everything tastes better when you are at eye level with the empire state building’s top floors and can look down on midtown and its sparkling towers that look like metal trees?

Well, this is the kind of experience that awaits you at Daintree.

The restaurant is perched high up on the Manhattan skyline.

A carefully chosen cocktail and drink menu with modern takes on New York City classics and a wine selection with a unique Australian flair are served alongside priceless views of the city’s skyline.

Ride the elevator to the 29th level of the hotel, where you’ll find a 180-seat area covered in potted plants, tumbling vines, and walls of windows.

A cathartic collection of sophisticated Scandinavian dessert pieces that pay homage to the enormous native New York house plants are placed all around.

The Empire State Building is clearly visible from the south-facing vantage point, providing numerous opportunities for photos taken from various angles.

The restaurant is open Tuesday to Saturday from 4 pm–12 am.

Address: 25 W 38th St 29th Floor, New York, NY 10018, United States

7. Social Drink & Food

Social is a great place to sit down comfortably and catch up with friends.

The roof terrace at Yotel rooftop bar, Social Drink & Food, is styled in the 1960s with rainbow-colored circle chairs, lounge sofas, and exotic dragon trees.

Together with street food with a worldwide flair and carefully made seasonal beverages, the rooftop bar offers an unwinding, entertaining, and cozy ambiance.

Although the terrace is just on the fourth floor, it nevertheless provides a fantastic view of Times Square and the other towers.

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

8. Zona De Cuba

If you’re looking for some good Spanish food with a modern twist, check out Zona De Cuba.

Zona de Cuba is a beautifully decorated restaurant with all-around great quality.

The ambiance is romantic enough for a couple but light enough for a family dinner.

It’s a beautiful rooftop establishment that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of NYC! You don’t even feel like you’re in the Bronx. Instead, the place makes you feel like you’re in Miami.

Order some mojo-marinated pork chops or plantains packed with Cuban spiced meals.

Also, they have private pods you may reserve if you and your pals want a little privacy.

Address: 558 Grand Concourse, The Bronx, NY 10451, United States

9. Manhatta

Manhatta is a really beautiful place to enjoy the evening sun and skyline of Manhattan and Brooklyn.

The restaurant is one of New York’s most exciting dining spots, with a carefully curated wine list and a consistently intriguing menu.

The Woolworth building, the Empire State Building, and also the Chrysler Building are all visible from up here.

Furthermore, the food is fairly impressive and tastes great.

There is a pronounced preference for fresh, seasonal, and even raw ingredients over anything more.

Particularly the starters are heavily dependent on utmost freshness and preparation, leaving little room for error and client pleasure.

Unless you are looking for the bar scene, request a table in the quiet dining room further away from the bar.

No matter where you are seated in the dining, the views are breathtaking.

As a tip, if you want to enjoy this restaurant’s stunning views but are on a strict budget, the food doesn’t appeal to you, or you can’t acquire a reservation because of last-minute preparation, try your luck at the bar.

The bar’s cuisine differs from that of the main dining establishment.

Address: 28 Liberty St 60th floor, New York, NY 10005, United States

10. Panorama Room

If there’s any reason you need to visit Roosevelt Island, then it’s the panorama Room.

Panorama Room, situated atop the stunning Graduate Roosevelt Island, offers a very distinctive NYC rooftop experience.

In fact, this is the first rooftop bar on the island that is open to the public.

Take the Roosevelt Island tramway along the side of the Queensborough bridge to get here.

Once on the island, walk to the hotel and go up to the bar level. Pictures don’t do this place justice, but the views are perfect, and the cocktails are constructed meticulously.

The inside lounge and the outdoor terrace are dressed in an opulent and dramatic suit with plenty of velvet, marble, and chrome,

You can see the south point of Roosevelt island, surrounded by the river, and on the right, a nice view of Manhattan and Brooklyn on the left side.

The restaurant is open most evenings of the week and also hosts rooftop brunch on the weekends.

Tempura Fried Marketvegetable, Truffle Fries, and Caviar Nachos are some of the snacks you can try in addition to the amazing cocktails.

Address: 22 N Loop Rd, New York, NY 10044, United States

11. Saga

Saga is one of the must-visit rooftop restaurants in NYC.

The location is distinctive and has an outdoor deck where guests can have an aperitif while admiring the breathtaking views.

When you arrive, they take you in a private elevator to the 65th level rather than directing you to the bar. In fact, they converse with you.

The dining rooms are decorated with peach and emerald velvet-upholstered furniture, green marble tables, and decorations made of carved stone.

The bartender asks about your preferences and offers excellent recommendations.

Your server arrives to talk with you about the dinner while you enjoy a drink on a terrace in the sky, assisting you in making decisions.

You can relax as long as you want. Dinner starts when you are ready.

Overall, it is a lovely experience from start to finish. In fact, during your meal, you can go outside again if you like, see the kitchen, or look at the art or the view.

The cuisine of SAGA is based on European techniques but is influenced by many different cultures.

Tomahawk steak, some light focaccia shaped like muffins and served in a treasure chest, and the enormous fat duck are among the best courses here.

12. The Roof at The Rockaway Hotel

The Rockaway Hotel’s sixth-floor rooftop is one of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC if you want to experience some sea time moments.

The hotel is lovely, spotless, and has whimsical yet classy decor.

Nonetheless, the rooftop is stunning, with areas for lounging, eating, and drinking on both the bay and the ocean sides.

This bar has views of the Atlantic just a few blocks from the beach, with an indoor space on one side and an outdoor terrace on the other.

Other items are on the menu, but seafood is the focus here.

You can go for the carnitas soft tacos or flatbreads for entrees.

Shark Bite and EZ Pass are fantastic drinks. EZ Pass is a soft purple -so pretty and Instagram-able, but Shark Bite is more savory and made with tequila.

Address: 108-10 Rockaway Beach Dr, Queens, NY 11694, United States

Thinking of having brunch with the best views of NYC? Check out our list of the best Brunch Restaurants in NYC to dine in!

13. Berry Park

It’s nice to have the rooftop bar experience without having to really dress up for a super fancy bar. If you agree, make your way to Berry Park.

Berry Park NYC is one of the top rooftop restaurants in NYC to visit for a relaxed and fun time with friends.

It’s located right on the edge of McCarren Park, not far from the Bedford L train.

The entire place is nicely decorated with light chains in the outside area and old brick walls inside, where you can also watch sports events.

Although not as high as some of the swankier rooftop restaurants in NYC, it has a great view of the Chrysler Building.

Several German and Belgian beers are available on the Berry Park Rooftop, or you can choose a specialty cocktail.

Similarly, the food is primarily American pub fare with some German elements, such as bratwurst and fries.

A special brunch menu is also available every weekend from 12 am to 3 pm.

Address: 4 Berry St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, United States

14. The Greens on The Rooftop at Pier 17

The Greens is a unique outdoor dining destination located at Pier 17 Seaport.

The Rooftop at Pier 17 was transformed into a specially-designed new concept by The Greens. It was initially conceived in August 2020 in response to the global health pandemic.

This was done to provide seamless social distancing and a safe outlet for New Yorkers to responsibly dine out during one of the toughest times for the city.

The Rooftop at Pier 17 offers city skyline views, waterfront breezes, and a vibe that changes each season.

It presents itself as an upscale rooftop cocktail bar and, for the whole, lives up to its billing.

Yes, you can get a fancy cocktail here and then stuff your face with chicken tenders; how great is that?

You can enjoy a variety of dishes and cocktails in your cabin that contains a virtual fireplace, electric heating, an air purifier, and chic décor

For a cocktail, try the Ume cocktail; it uses Japanese plum wine and yuzu.

Address: 89 South St, New York, NY 10038, United States

15. Ainslie

With beautifully crafted interiors, Ainslie is the perfect place for bottomless Sunday brunch to recover from partying the previous night.

In the center of Williamsburg sits the expansive restaurant, wine bar, and Biergarten known as Ainslie.

The warehouse and factory complex is housed in an 1870s structure that the WM Cabble Excelsior Manufacturing Company formerly used. As a result, many of the building’s original features are still present.

This venue is breathtaking. Every detail of the architectural design of this space is executed perfectly.

Delicious Italian-American cuisine created by seasoned NYC chef John DeLucie is served at the establishment.

Additionally, the restaurant has an extensive drink menu with artisanal cocktails and mocktails, 20 wines by the glass, and 16 craft beer options from regional breweries.

The food is tasty, and the vibe is so relaxing and lively for an energetic weekend.

Ainslie also has an open garden patio in the back that is perfect for large groups.

Address: 76 Ainslie St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, United States

16. Ample Hills Creamery

Ample Hills is one of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC for those who love sweet things. In fact, it is a sweet tooth’s paradise.

The Creamery is a family-owned ice cream shop. In what was once an industrial area that is changing, Ample Hills has an excellent corner location with a comfortable rooftop area.

The restaurant has different locations around the country, but the Gowanus location has a more excellent selection, great rooftop seating, and a pretty awesome social vibe.

They have authentic gourmet ice cream, and you get spoilt for choice. The taste is rich and creamy. In fact, every option is loaded with chunks of either cookies or candy, etc.

If you prefer something more salty and sweet, go for the “munchies,” which combines silky smooth ice cream with salty snacks, including chips and pretzels.

Just make sure you go to the rooftop to enjoy the view of Gowanus at night.

Address: 305 Nevins St, Brooklyn, NY 11215, United States

17. Harriet’s Rooftop and Lounge

Harriet’s rooftop is an excellent location for views, cocktails, and snacks because of its stylish urban, lush, and modern atmosphere.

The rooftop bar provides some of the best views of Manhattan due to its location.

In fact, it is located in the middle of everything; on the left, you can see the Liberty Statue, while on the right, you can see Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire state building.

The food here is good, but on the high side. However, the view makes up for that. If you can’t get over the price of the food,  I recommend checking for a drink at the bar.

Address: 60 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

18. The Crown NYC

The Crown is one of the few rooftop restaurants in NYC that provides unimpeded views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines, along with the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, and One World Trade.

Located on the top floor of Hotel 50 Bowery, you walk into a club-like feel with DJ spinning music.

This rooftop in NYC is famous for young people here to have a drink and listen to an excellent music soundtrack.

Two external rooftop terraces are accessible from an internal bar/lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, where you can enjoy extremely stunning 360-degree views of the city.

The beverage menu at the Crown offers a wide variety of small-batch spirits, locally made craft beers, and international wine options.

Also, there are some delectable desserts and a selection of exotic bar nibbles that are ideal for sharing.

Address: 50 Bowery, New York, NY 10013, United States

19. Republica

Located in the heart of Washington Heights, Republica is a lively Dominican rooftop restaurant and lounge.

The restaurant provides Dominican cuisine, artisan cocktails, and party fare. The cherry on top is a stunning rooftop terrace. In fact, the ambiance is Instagram-ready.

The Republica menu features a variety of well-prepared meats and fish that are paired with classic Latin side dishes. It also features a wide range of gourmet Dominican cuisine.

Address: 160 Dyckman St, New York, NY 10040, United States

20. Laser Wolf

Love grilled meat? Check out laser wolf.

Laser Wolf serves grilled meat, fish, and vegetables modeled after Israeli skewer houses called shipudiya.

Everything is prepared in this kitchen using a charcoal grill, an age-old cooking method that brings out the flavors of its ingredients.

The obvious thing here is the views; the views from this place are amazing: right across Marsha park, the East River, and the Manhattan skyline.

The restaurant is on top of the Hoxton Hotel, and there’s a dedicated lift inside to get to it.

Essentially, all you have to choose are your meats from the grill and whatever sides you like.

The starter is an array of small dishes served with delicious pita, and dessert is also included.

From smoky to tangy to spicy, your pallet will surely be immersed in various flavors.

Address: 97 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States

Final Remarks

Indeed there are many rooftop restaurants in NYC to have a fantastic date night or catch up with friends.

Take off with your partner, friends, or family and enjoy the best views NYC offers from above.

Bon Appetite!