Where to Find the Best Late Summer Rooftop Dining in NYC
As August rolls into September, there’s a special magic in the New York City air. The intense summer heat begins to soften, making it the absolute perfect time for rooftop dining. Before the autumn chill sets in, you have a golden window to enjoy stunning views, delicious food, and refreshing cocktails from high above the city streets. Here are the best spots for late summer rooftop dining.
For Breathtaking Skyline Views: The Rooftop at The Rockaway Hotel
Location: Rockaway Beach, Queens
Escape the concrete jungle for an evening and dine with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Manhattan skyline on the other. The Rooftop at The Rockaway Hotel offers a spacious, breezy atmosphere and a menu of coastal-inspired fare like lobster rolls and fresh oysters. The sunset views here are simply unmatched, making it worth the trip.
For a Chic SoHo Scene: JIMMY at The ModernHaus
Location: SoHo
A perennial favorite, JIMMY remains one of SoHo’s chicest rooftop destinations. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed, with a pool and 360-degree views of downtown Manhattan. In late summer, the indoor-outdoor space is perfect for catching the breeze. Their cocktail program is top-notch, and the menu of elevated bar snacks is perfect for sharing as you watch the city lights twinkle on.
For a Lush Garden Vibe: Gallow Green
Location: Chelsea
Located atop the McKittrick Hotel (home of “Sleep No More”), Gallow Green is a transportive experience. It’s less of a sleek rooftop and more of a secret, overgrown garden in the sky, with lush greenery and twinkling lights everywhere. It’s an incredibly romantic and whimsical setting for dinner and drinks, offering a menu of seasonal dishes and creative cocktails.
For a Williamsburg Waterfront Experience: Laser Wolf
Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Situated on the roof of The Hoxton hotel, Laser Wolf offers spectacular, unobstructed views of the East River and the Manhattan skyline. This Israeli “shipudiya” (skewer house) from the acclaimed chef Michael Solomonov serves a fantastic fixed-price menu that includes a dizzying array of salatim (small salads) followed by perfectly grilled meats, fish, or vegetables. It’s a full dining experience with a world-class view.
For Midtown Proximity: The Skylark
Location: Midtown West
If you’re looking for a post-work or pre-theater spot, The Skylark offers jaw-dropping, up-close views of the Empire State Building and Times Square. The vibe is upscale and professional. While it’s more of a cocktail lounge, they offer a substantial menu of small plates that are perfect for a light dinner. The late summer sunsets from this vantage point are truly unforgettable.
