If you’re searching for the top rooftop restaurants in NYC, you’re not alone, and you’re absolutely in the right place.
After years of city nights, dinner dates, and rooftop sunsets, I’ve come to believe there’s nothing quite like dining above the chaos of New York. The right rooftop can turn a casual dinner into something unforgettable, especially if you’re trying to impress a date. Maybe it’s the skyline. Maybe it’s the cocktails. Maybe it’s just the magic of New York doing its thing.
If you’re looking to spark a first-date connection, celebrate an anniversary, or just sip something strong with friends as the sun sets over the Hudson, this list has you covered. These are 10 of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC for 2025, all ranked by vibe, food, dress code, and date-worthiness. Think of it as your cheat sheet to elevated dining in the city.
1. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Location: 230 Fifth Ave, Flatiron District
Average Price: $40–$70 per person
Environment: Lively, casual, and social with unbeatable views of the Empire State Building
Dress Code: Smart casual; trendy but not too formal
Top Dishes to Order: Truffle fries, chicken sliders, margarita pizza
Date-Approved?: Yes – especially around sunset or during the evening glow
230 Fifth is arguably the most iconic rooftop restaurant in NYC and for good reason. Its large, open-air rooftop offers sweeping views of the Empire State Building, making it a must-visit for tourists and locals alike. The menu is approachable and shareable, perfect for groups or date nights that feel relaxed yet memorable.
Inside, the vibe stays festive with a lounge-style setting, while outside, the seating area features a mix of high-top tables, benches, and even palm trees during warmer months. In the winter, heated igloos make this rooftop a year-round destination—great for couples looking for a cozy but playful vibe.
The bar also hosts weekend brunches, happy hour specials, and frequent events like rooftop yoga and themed parties. If you’re planning a birthday dinner, pregame with friends, or a casual but impressive date, 230 Fifth delivers every time.
Bonus: There’s no cover charge, making it one of the most accessible upscale rooftop experiences in the city.
2. Refinery Rooftop
Location: 63 W 38th St, Midtown
Average Price: $50–$85 per person
Environment: Upscale, chic, and intimate with warm lighting and an industrial aesthetic
Dress Code: Dressy casual or date-night attire – think elevated but not overdone
Top Dishes to Order: Lobster roll sliders, truffle mac & cheese, spiced wings
Date-Approved?: 100%. It’s cozy, romantic, and designed for conversation
Tucked atop the fashionable Refinery Hotel, Refinery Rooftop brings a sophisticated yet approachable rooftop dining experience to Midtown Manhattan. Unlike larger, louder rooftop venues, this spot feels refined and intimate. The space is adorned with string lights, wooden beams, exposed brick, and a retractable glass roof that allows for year-round dining with a view.
What sets Refinery Rooftop apart is its balance of ambiance and quality. The cocktail program is top-tier, with seasonal craft drinks that are as photogenic as they are flavorful. Signature cocktails like the “Refinery Old Fashioned” or “Rooftop Mule” complement the gourmet comfort food menu perfectly.
It’s a go-to choice for a romantic dinner or a low-key celebration with a few close friends. While it’s not the largest rooftop in the city, its elegance and attention to detail more than make up for it.
Weekday evenings are ideal if you’re hoping for a quieter, more intimate vibe, while weekends bring a lively, after-work crowd. Either way, if you’re looking for a rooftop restaurant in NYC that feels personal and upscale without being pretentious, Refinery Rooftop checks every box.
3. Westlight
- Location: 111 N 12th St, Williamsburg, Brooklyn
- Average Price: $65–$90 per person
- Environment: Trendy, scenic, modern
- Dress Code: Fashion-forward; Brooklyn-chic
- Top Dishes to Order: Tuna tartare, duck carnitas tacos, lamb kebabs
- Date-Approved?: Yes – the skyline views over Manhattan are unforgettable
Westlight is perched atop The William Vale Hotel and offers some of the best rooftop views in NYC. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike looking for a fresh take on elevated dining. The rooftop restaurant serves inventive small plates with global inspiration and has a full craft cocktail menu. With glass walls and a rooftop terrace, it’s a perfect place to watch the sun dip behind the Manhattan skyline. As one of the top rooftop restaurants in NYC, it combines unforgettable views with a laid-back, yet upscale atmosphere.
4. Harriet’s Rooftop
- Location: 60 Furman St, Brooklyn Heights (1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge)
- Average Price: $70–$100 per person
- Environment: Luxurious, eco-chic
- Dress Code: Upscale and polished
- Top Dishes to Order: Shrimp cocktail, roasted cauliflower, cheeseburgers
- Date-Approved?: Definitely. Best for a fancy sunset date or anniversary
Harriet’s Rooftop blends luxury and sustainability, offering diners an eco-conscious menu without sacrificing flavor or presentation. Situated above the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, the space features greenery, wooden accents, and warm lighting that matches the natural, organic vibe. The panoramic views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty make this one of the top rooftop restaurants in NYC for a refined and relaxed evening. If you’re celebrating something special—or just want to impress—Harriet’s is a can’t-miss.
5. The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel
- Location: 215 Chrystie St, Lower East Side
- Average Price: $60–$80 per person
- Environment: Sleek, vibrant, very NYC
- Dress Code: Dressy casual; trendy nightlife vibe
- Top Dishes to Order: Sushi rolls, sliders, artisan cocktails
- Date-Approved?: Yes – especially if you love nightlife energy
The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel is where style and energy collide. Located in the heart of the Lower East Side, it’s known for a lively, fashionable crowd and stunning views of downtown Manhattan. This rooftop restaurant in NYC often hosts live DJs, making it a go-to for young professionals and creatives who want to pair dinner with dancing. From sunset until late at night, it’s a nonstop vibe—perfect for a dynamic date night or celebratory dinner.
6. Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge
- Location: 485 7th Ave, Midtown
- Average Price: $55–$90 per person
- Environment: Whimsical, fun, playful
- Dress Code: Fun and flirty; Instagram-ready
- Top Dishes to Order: Pink cotton candy pancakes, sliders, cocktails with glitter
- Date-Approved?: Yes – for a flirty, fun night out
Magic Hour is like a rooftop amusement park for adults. Its playful design includes carousel seating, rotating booths, and even mini-golf—all above the streets of Manhattan. As one of the most Instagrammed rooftop restaurants in NYC, the space is known for quirky presentation and over-the-top decor. It’s ideal for dates that don’t take themselves too seriously. If your goal is laughter, conversation, and a side of whimsy, Magic Hour delivers.
7. PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown
- Location: 210 W 55th St, Midtown
- Average Price: $60–$95 per person
- Environment: Upscale club-lounge vibe
- Dress Code: Trendy and polished – no sneakers
- Top Dishes to Order: Sushi, sliders, truffle fries
- Date-Approved?: For sure – especially on a Friday or Saturday night
PHD Terrace is part rooftop restaurant, part high-end lounge. It’s beautifully decorated with seasonal floral installations and stylish lighting, making every visit feel like a special occasion. The menu focuses on light bites and cocktails—perfect for pre-party dining or an elegant night out. Among the top rooftop restaurants in NYC, PHD is a standout for those looking to turn dinner into an all-night event. Whether you’re people-watching or snapping selfies, it’s a go-to for Midtown glam.
8. RH Rooftop Restaurant
- Location: 9 Ninth Ave, Meatpacking District
- Average Price: $85–$120 per person
- Environment: Elegant, romantic, timeless
- Dress Code: Upscale casual or formal
- Top Dishes to Order: Lobster roll, roast chicken, bellini cocktails
- Date-Approved?: Yes – ideal for anniversaries or a fancy first date
RH Rooftop is tucked above the luxe Restoration Hardware showroom, and it’s a design lover’s dream. Everything—from the food to the furniture—feels meticulously chosen. Chandeliers hang from glass ceilings, and plush seating lines the edges of a tranquil rooftop garden. This is one of the top rooftop restaurants in NYC for refined, slow-paced dining. It’s not about the party—it’s about connection, quality, and creating memories.
9. Dear Irving on Hudson
- Location: 310 W 40th St, Midtown
- Average Price: $50–$80 per person
- Environment: Quiet elegance, Art Deco charm
- Dress Code: Vintage-chic or cocktail attire
- Top Dishes to Order: Craft cocktails, tuna tostadas, truffle popcorn
- Date-Approved?: Absolutely. Especially for couples who love vintage charm
Dear Irving on Hudson feels like a step back in time. This hidden gem offers sweeping city views and a unique, Art Deco-inspired setting across two levels. It’s quieter than other rooftop restaurants in NYC, which makes it ideal for deep conversations and romantic escapes. If you’re looking to impress a date with charm, character, and mixologist-crafted drinks, Dear Irving deserves a top spot on your list.
10. Zona de Cuba
- Location: 558 Grand Concourse, Bronx
- Average Price: $35–$60 per person
- Environment: Tropical, festive, Latin flair
- Dress Code: Colorful, festive, casual-chic
- Top Dishes to Order: Ropa vieja, arroz con pollo, mojitos
- Date-Approved?: Yes – especially for music lovers
Venturing beyond Manhattan brings you to Zona de Cuba—one of the most vibrant rooftop restaurants in NYC. Located in the Bronx, this tropical-themed rooftop bursts with color, music, and bold Cuban flavors. The vibe is festive and authentic, and there’s often live music or DJs spinning Latin beats. If you’re looking to dance, dine, and celebrate all at once, Zona de Cuba is your ideal escape.
Tips for Visiting The Top Rooftop Restaurants in NYC
Before you head out for a rooftop dinner in NYC, there are a few things you should know that can really make or break the experience.
First off, make a reservation. Rooftop spots are some of the most in-demand restaurants in the city, especially on weekends or during nice weather. If you show up without a booking, there’s a good chance you’ll either be turned away or stuck waiting way too long.
Keep an eye on the weather, too. Even though many rooftop restaurants have indoor areas or retractable roofs, it’s smart to double-check if your table will be outside—and if so, what happens if it rains. Some places stay open rain or shine, while others may cancel outdoor reservations altogether.
Timing is everything, especially if you’re hoping for a great view. The most popular (and most romantic) time to go is during sunset hours, usually between 6 and 8 PM in the summer. The golden light and skyline views can take your dinner from nice to unforgettable. If you want that perfect backdrop for photos or a date-night vibe, aim for this window—but remember, so is everyone else, so book early.
Prices can vary a lot, depending on where you go. Some rooftops are casual and affordable, while others are more upscale with fancy cocktails and luxury dishes. If you’re trying to stick to a budget, check if the restaurant offers happy hour specials or prix-fixe menus earlier in the evening. A well-timed visit can save you money and still give you the full experience.
Finally, dress the part. Rooftop restaurants in NYC tend to attract stylish crowds, and many have a dress code. Even if it’s not strictly enforced, you’ll want to look your best. Think smart casual—no sneakers, flip-flops, or gym wear. If it’s a date, this is your chance to make a great first impression.
Whether you’re on a first date, celebrating something special, or just want an elevated dinner experience, the top rooftop restaurants in NYC offer something for everyone. From elegant and intimate to fun and vibrant, NYC’s rooftops continue to raise the bar—literally.
Be sure to bookmark this Rooftop Dining Guide for your next night out in the city. And remember: nothing beats good food with an unforgettable view.
