The 10 best rooftops in New York

Enjoy the best views of New York City with a cocktail in hand!

Rooftop bars are institutions in the city that never sleeps. A furnished terrace overlooking the illuminated city, music and a relaxed atmosphere are what you will find in a rooftop bar in New York. If you’re visiting the city, be sure to stop by for a bite to eat or a cocktail while taking in the amazing views from these unique establishments. We have selected for you the 10 best rooftop bars in New York:

Rooftop New York #10: The Plunge, at the Gansevoort Hotel

Located on the top floor of the Gansevoort Hotel, Plunge is a trendy rooftop bar that offers a 360° panoramic view of Manhattan and the Hudson River. Plunge is the perfect place to come for a cocktail on the terrace. It serves simple, tasteful international cuisine in a lounge setting ideal for relaxing at the end of the day. In the evening, the DJs take turns on the decks and the bar is transformed into a New York clubbing mecca.

Rooftop New York n°9 : Ning’s lounge, view on the 5th avenue

Ning’s lounge is located on the top floor of the Peninsula, a stone’s throw from the Museum of Modern Art and Trump Tower, on the famous 5th Avenue. The mix of oriental and European styles gives the Ning Lounge a very special atmosphere, designed to recall the Shanghai of the 1930s. On the terrace, which is also pleasant in winter as it is heated, you can enjoy one of the many cocktails offered on the menu while taking in the breathtaking view of Manhattan lights. Cosy and chic, Ning’s Lounge is a place not to be missed if you stay in New York.

New York Rooftop #8: Jimmy at the James, a pool in the heart of Soho

Jimmy at the James is a New York rooftop bar as we like it. A warm welcome, a relaxed atmosphere and a cosy decor, this “rooftop bar” is a trendy place very popular with New Yorkers. Located in the heart of the Soho district, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view. The terrace is equipped with a pool, which is a real plus in the summer. In addition to a well-stocked menu of original cocktails, Jimmy’s offers tapas-inspired food for a convivial evening with friends.

Rooftop New York n°7 : The empire hotel, a unique atmosphere

In the heart of the Upper West Side, the Empire Hotel (fans of the cult series Gossip Girl will have recognised Chuck Bass’ hotel) has one of the highest rated rooftops in New York. While it has a superb view of the lights of Manhattan, this lounge bar offers a neat setting and refined cuisine. It has a large terrace, but also a superb interior room entirely covered in glass. The rooftop bar of the Empire Hotel is certainly one of the most chic in New York, ideal for a romantic evening for two.

Rooftop New York n°6: The Ides, for a trip to Brooklyn

A red brick industrial building, a sign with the word HOTEL on the front, welcome to the Ides, the rooftop bar of the Whyte Hotel in Brooklyn. Although the terrace is only on the sixth floor, it still offers one of the most beautiful panoramas in New York, with a grandiose view of the Manhattan skyline. The place is more confidential and less frequented by tourists. While the hotel does have a restaurant, the bar does not offer any food.

Rooftop New York n°5: The St Cloud, on top of the famous Knickerbocker hotel

The Saint Cloud is the rooftop bar of the Knickerbocker Hotel. Its impressive view of Times Square makes it one of the most popular rooftop bars for tourists. This chic rooftop bar offers a refined setting and high quality international cuisine. As an added bonus, the bar includes a cosy cigar tasting area, which cigar lovers are sure to enjoy.

Rooftop New York n°4 : The press lounge, a breathtaking view of Manhattan

An impressive view that embraces Midtown, Times Square, stretches over the Hudson River before giving you a glimpse of the Upper West Side, welcome to the Press Lounge, a rooftop bar in New York that should not be missed under any circumstances. Located at the top of the Ink 48 hotel, this notorious rooftop bar offers a spectacular 360° view. The bar does not offer food and beverage service, but does have an extensive cocktail menu. The only drawback is that the first metro station is more than 15 minutes away on foot, so you just have to be warned.

Rooftop New York n°3: Refinery, a typical New York style

At the third position of our top, the Refinery is a rooftop bar with a pure New York style located in the heart of Midtown. With its breathtaking view of the Manhattan Skyline and the Empire State Building, the Refinery is a must-see during your visit to New York. A clever system of retractable windows allows the place to offer ideal comfort in winter and summer. Red brick, metal beams, the Refinery has a 100% New York aesthetic. You can enjoy tasty food in a relaxing setting during the day. In the evening, it is with a cocktail in hand that you will enjoy its superb terrace with friends.

Rooftop New York #2: Pod 39, in the beating heart of Manhattan

In second place, Pod 39 is an atypical rooftop bar with a unique decor. Sublime red brick arches surround the terrace of this original and friendly bar. The view is spectacular and the atmosphere warm. Although the view from Pod 39 is not the most impressive, it has a special atmosphere that does not leave visitors indifferent. Here you can enjoy colourful Mexican cuisine and one of the many cocktails on the menu.

Rooftop New York n°1 : 230 Fifth, a bar not to be missed

If there is one rooftop bar you should not miss during your visit to New York, it is the 230 Fifth. Located on 5th Avenue, this iconic bar attracts many tourists who flock to it, and for good reason. The 230 Fifth offers one of the most beautiful, if not the most beautiful view of New York. The large terrace surrounded by greenery offers an exclusive view of the Empire State Building. It is heated and has igloos to shelter you from the freezing cold of New York in winter. The place offers a brunch that is widely acclaimed by visitors. If you want to get the most out of your experience at 230 Fifth, head to the terrace to watch a beautiful sunset over the city that never sleeps.

Going out in New York: What to wear for a cocktail on the terrace?

If there is no particular dress code for going to a rooftop bar in New York, you should know that it is good form to dress up to go out. As you will quickly see, Americans do not go out in jeans and trainers. At the very least, your evening attire should consist of a dress for women and trousers and a shirt for men, especially if you plan to go to a club to end your evening. However, adapt your outfit to the place you’re going to or you’ll be given the somewhat derogatory nickname of B & T (Bridge and Tunnel), which New Yorkers use to refer to “overdressed” tourists.