NYC's 5 Best Rooftop Bars For Fall
Summer may be over but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a nice evening outside. Head to one of these five rooftop bars and enjoy the views of Manhattan while the weather is still nice. By Carly Petrone.
More: The 15 Best Lunch Spots In Midtown
Step into the newly opened PHD Terrace at the Dream Midtown Hotel and enjoy the indoor/outdoor multi-level rooftop. The lounge is open year-round and offers spectacular views, plenty of seating, and the feel of a penthouse patio. Snag a seat indoors at one of the brown leather banquets and sip on the Hot to Trot cocktail (Cazadores Blanco, cucumber, agave, and jalapeno) or try the Wet Dream (Grey Goose Cherry Noir, white cranberry and pineapple juice, and St. Germain). Fill up on Duck Confit Spring Rolls, Crunchy Orzo & Cheese Balls, and Buttermilk Fried Chicken Waffle Tacos. Or stop by the second level and check out the outdoor deck that's filled with potted plants and hanging ivy vines. It'll feel like an evening in a garden (without all the dirt).
More: Best Cocktails For Fall In New York City
Sit underneath the twinkling lights and take in the stellar view of The Empire State Building when you grab a drink at the Refinery Rooftop. Located inside the Refinery Hotel, the hat factory turned hotel space has an old timey feel thanks to its reclaimed wooden bar and restored brick archways. There's a distinct indoor area as well as a retractable glass roof, making it easy to access the outdoor space patio. If you're looking for a quick bite before heading out, their appetizer and bar snack menu is quite extensive. Try the Tater Tot Nachos with shortrub, secret tomato, horseradish, and cheddar ($21) or the Butcher's Meatballs ($14) that are served with herbed ricotta and pressed foccacia. They also offer a variety of flatbreads, paninis, and sliders. Wash it all down with a seasonal cocktail like the Fall Spice Margarita ($16) -- Maestro Dobel Tequila, all spice simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and fresh lime juice. In the mood for something warmer? Cozy up with a glass of Chefs Cider -- Mt. Gay Black Barrel, chefs mulled cider, and lemon juice.
More: 4 Best Bars For Post Theater Drinks In New York
Head to the top of The Hudson Hotel and enjoy a drink at the Sky Terrace. Located in the heart of the city, this small rooftop is one of the best kept secrets in New York. You'll feel transported to a mini oasis on the hotel's 15th floor. Enjoy one of their 10 types of sangria like the Kaffir Lime-Sake or Pear-Limoncello versions. The Hudson Mojito (Bacardi, mint, lime, and sugar) is a classic way to go or try a twist on an the typical Old Fashioned. Their Grapefruit version features Glenmorangie, orange bitter, and bitter gomme. Take in the views of the Hudson River and soak up these last few warmer weeks of the fall season. Open until 10:30 p.m.
More: Top Lobster Rolls In NYC
If you're looking for a spectacular view of the Empire State Building then make your way to the Top of the Strand. The 21st floor of The Strand Hotel offers unrestricted views of the iconic building and the retractable glass roof make the intimate setting a great place to grab a drink and bite anytime of year. After a hard day's work, reward yourself with glass of rose or something a little stronger. May we suggest the Maison Derriere? This refreshing cocktail is made with grapefruit vodka, St. Germain, dry vermouth, and lemon juice. Pair it with their enormous Double Maine Lobster Roll ($29) and you'll be one happy customer. It may be pricey but you'll get twice as much lobster (including the tail) as any other roll in town. Plus, the meat is butter poached and served with their homemade vinegar chips. If you're looking for something lighter, try their charcuterie ($18) brussel sprouts with crispy pork belly and kimchi aioli. Both are tasty options for fall.
More: The 4 Best Cocktail Bars In Soho
Curl up next to the fireplace at Jimmy, the rooftop bar inside The James Hotel in Soho. The space, curated by David Rabin and Johnny Swet, gives off a 1970s vibe thanks to its lingham wood floors, swank modular furniture, and dark cinnamon glazed tile walls. Mixologists are busy creating concoctions like the Bon Ton Roulet (George Dickel Rye, Vieux Pontarlier Absinthe, Pecan Syrup, Bitters, and Creole Seasoning) or the fall twist on a classic margarita. The Pumpkin Margarita is made with Tromba Reposado tequila, pumpkin butter, agave, lime, and rimmed with cinnamon salt. Grab some friends and share a plate of Deviled Duck Eggs or Chicken Empanadas. The Kobe Franks in a Blanket with honey dijon are pretty stellar, too. Don't forget dessert because they're serving up David Burke's Cheesecake Lollipop Trees ($22/each). Who can resist that?
For the latest on all of the Tri-State's events and happenings, follow us on Twitter!
Carly Petrone is a freelance writer living in New York City.
