NYC Rooftop Drinking
When the weather turns warm, New Yorkers demand open-air nightlife. Sidewalk tables and back gardens get packed quickly and stay that way till the wee hours. The most aspirational lounge lizards head upwards to the city's rooftops, and with the inevitability of the season comes the roundup of New York rooftop bars. So let's kick it off pro-actively rather than waiting for someone else's version. This list is moderately selective, avoiding the exclusive (i.e. Soho House) and requiring a certain minimum altitude (sorry, cabanas at the Maritime Hotel). Also trying to vary a bit by geography and type. More suggestions welcome in the comments and tips.
The Delancey
168 Delancey St
New York, NY 10002
One of the best casual roofs in town. Certainly can get crowded with patrons taking a break from the music inside, but drinks are much more reasonable (and often more … plentiful) than similar venues, plus occasional grilled eats. Usually a cover charge to go topside in summer, so be advised. [link]
Bookmarks Bar @ Library Hotel
299 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10017
An upscale roof with enclosed bar and ample seating, the boutique hotel crowd tends more toward serene conversation than meat-market macking. Not to say it can't go that … direction eventually of course, especially on a warm night, when all the Library's rooms are full. Prices are hotel-bar high, but no more so than any other rooftop -- and they're generally better made and served in proper glassware. [link]
230 Fifth
230 5th Ave
New York, NY 10001
A testament to how a can't-lose proposition -- a giant rooftop terrace and penthouse -- can attract one of the most intolerable crowds in the city while still delivering … the goods otherwise. Yes, drinks are overpriced, and the people are 90% horrible i-bankers and their trollops. That said, if you can get in early, it's an exceptional place to pregame under vaulted skies before happy hour makes escape mandatory. [link]
Plunge @ Hotel Gansevoort
18 9th Ave
New York, NY 10014
Ah yes, the rooftop pool/bar at the Gansevoort. Worth experiencing at least once, early in the evening, when it's not a chore to get in (or you're on The List, or are a … supermodel). Pleasant views of the Meatpacking District and a bit of the Hudson; plus, you can gaze imperiously upon the Soho House roof pool across the street. Bail before the B&T hordes take over. [link]
Roof Garden Cafe @ Metropolitan Museum
1000 5th Ave
New York, NY 10028
A sentimental favorite simply because the expansive views of Central Park remain among the best in New York. Can and will get crowded, but it's reasonably large, and it … closes early (8:30 p.m. on weekends). Bar service has improved in recent years, with two satellite counters in the corners, but stick with beer if you can -- the wine is pretty awful, and the mixed drinks are notoriously weak. [link]
Highbar
48th Street & 8th Avenue New York, NY
Set for a May 1 opening, this new rooftop lounge in Hell's Kitchen promises "urban-chic ambiance." It's a venture by Greg Bier of Aspen and Amalia/D'or fame. Expect … lots of prim little sofas and light wood, plus plentiful drinky-drinks and a couple pockets of precious air conditioning. [link]
