Unearth The Voyage
New York City’s skyline is one of the most famous views in the world, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than from a rooftop restaurant. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a romantic date, or just want to grab drinks with friends, these elevated spots combine incredible food with breathtaking views. From cozy winter igloos to sprawling terraces overlooking Manhattan, each rooftop brings its own unique vibe and menu to the table.
1. 230 Fifth (Flatiron)
When you want a rooftop experience that works any time of year, this Flatiron favorite delivers. The massive outdoor terraces give you plenty of room to spread out, and during winter months, heated igloos turn the space into a cozy wonderland. You’ll find classic American comfort food here—nachos piled high with toppings, crispy chicken tenders, fresh salads, and hearty pasta dishes that satisfy every craving.
Groups love this spot because there’s something for everyone on the menu. The relaxed vibe makes it easy to hang out for hours, whether you’re catching up with old friends or celebrating someone’s special day. Plus, the Empire State Building views never get old.
2. Laser Wolf Brooklyn (Williamsburg)
Chef Michael Solomonov brings his award-winning Israeli cooking to a Williamsburg rooftop, and the results are absolutely delicious. The star of the show? Charcoal-grilled skewers loaded with perfectly seasoned meats and vegetables, served alongside a rainbow of salatim (Israeli salads). Every bite of the fluffy, warm pita is heaven.
The terrace faces Manhattan, giving you front-row seats to one of the best skyline views in Brooklyn. This isn’t your typical rooftop bar food—it’s a full dining experience that happens to come with incredible views. Come hungry because you’ll want to try everything on the table.
3. Electric Lemon (Hudson Yards)
Starr Restaurants transformed the Equinox Hotel’s rooftop into a seasonal American dining destination that works morning, noon, and night. Breakfast here feels like a luxury, with the city waking up around you. Lunch offers a midday escape, while dinner brings that golden-hour glow everyone loves.
Weekend brunch is particularly popular, so plan ahead if that’s your target. The expansive outdoor terrace gives you plenty of fresh air along with your meal. The menu changes with what’s fresh and available, which means you’re getting ingredients at their peak flavor. Hudson Yards’ modern architecture provides a totally different backdrop than older Manhattan neighborhoods.
4. Westlight at The William Vale (Williamsburg)
Twenty-two floors above Williamsburg, Chef Andrew Carmellini has created something truly special. Every direction you look offers a different slice of the city—Manhattan’s towers to the west, Brooklyn’s neighborhoods spreading east, and the bridges connecting it all. The creative small plates menu changes with the seasons, giving you fresh flavors no matter when you visit.
The drinks list here is just as impressive as the food, with craft cocktails that pair perfectly with the sophisticated atmosphere. It’s definitely a step up from your average rooftop bar. Make a reservation ahead of time because word has gotten out about this gem.
5. Gansevoort Rooftop (Meatpacking)
Polished and sophisticated, this Meatpacking rooftop sits atop the Gansevoort hotel and delivers exactly what you’d expect from the neighborhood—style and substance in equal measure. The upscale seasonal menu changes throughout the year, keeping things fresh and interesting for repeat visitors. Each dish looks almost too pretty to eat, but trust us, you’ll want to dig in.
Timing matters here. Brunch brings a relaxed, celebratory vibe, while sunset transforms the space into pure magic. The view-driven experience means you’re paying for more than just food—you’re buying a memory. Downtown Manhattan spreads out before you in all its glory.
6. RH Rooftop Restaurant (Meatpacking)
Walking into RH’s rooftop restaurant feels like stepping into a secret garden, not a typical New York dining scene. The glass-ceilinged atrium is filled with towering plants, crystal chandeliers, and impeccably styled furniture that makes you want to redecorate your entire apartment. Classic American plates are served from breakfast through dinner, each one as beautiful as the space itself.
This isn’t your typical open-air rooftop—the enclosed garden atmosphere offers something more refined and year-round comfortable. The menu keeps things straightforward with well-executed favorites rather than trying to reinvent the wheel. It’s dining as an aesthetic experience, where the ambiance is just as important as what’s on your plate.
7. One40 Rooftop (Financial District)
Brand new for 2025, this Financial District addition sits above Club Quarters and offers something unique—views directly over the 9/11 Memorial. Modern American fare covers all the bases, with brunch, lunch, and dinner service throughout the week. The location puts you in the heart of Lower Manhattan’s dramatic mix of old and new architecture.
Being so new means you might beat the crowds that pack some of the more established spots. The menu focuses on contemporary twists on familiar favorites, making it approachable for any palate. Downtown workers have already discovered it for after-work drinks, but tourists are still catching on. The memorial views add a meaningful dimension to your meal.
8. Starchild Rooftop (Times Square/Theater District)
Music pulses through this 27th-floor lounge at the CIVILIAN Hotel, creating an atmosphere that’s more nightclub than traditional rooftop restaurant. The retractable roof opens when weather permits, though the energy inside stays hot regardless. A bites menu keeps you fueled while you dance or socialize, but let’s be honest—you’re here for the vibe more than the food.
This is where you go when you want your rooftop experience to feel like an event. The music-driven atmosphere attracts a younger crowd looking to celebrate. Times Square’s neon chaos spreads out below, visible but distant enough to feel like you’ve escaped it. Pre-game here before hitting Broadway shows, or make it the main event itself.
