New York City’s skyline is legendary, and the best rooftop restaurants in NYC take that view up a notch. Whether you’re craving Italian fare with a skyline view, breezy cocktail bars, or sun‑soaked brunch spots in NYC delivers. Enjoy imaginative Mexican food in Williamsburg. Experience traditional Korean barbecue in Midtown. Savor fresh bread and pasta in Gramercy Park. Explore top picks through the OpenTable New York City restaurant listings, where each rooftop combines fresh menus, panoramic scenery, and standout ambiance.
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Read on to discover the 10 best rooftop restaurants in NYC.
For American dishes on an elegantly designed rooftop — try RH Rooftop Restaurant (West Village)
Situated atop the RH home‑furnishing gallery, RH Rooftop Restaurant serves refined American dishes with epic views. Signature menu items include a creamy lobster roll, whole grilled branzino, and a grilled shrimp and vegetable salad. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from the extensive, European-leaning list. The stunning space has a mix of classic and modern decor, including vaulted ceilings, stone floors, and elegant lounge seating, creating a serene yet sophisticated setting.
For seasonal Italian food at a best rooftop restaurant in NYC — visit Amalfi at Serra – Eataly Flatiron (Gramercy Park)
Located atop Eataly Flatiron, Amalfi at Serra brings coastal Italian charm to its seasonal rooftop garden. The menu includes housemade breads and pastas like spaghetti with fried zucchini and basil. Sip a limoncello cocktails in the coastal-inspired space with cascading greenery and rustic wood tables. The restaurant is a standout among the best rooftop restaurants in NYC for light‑filled lunches and sunset dinners.
For modern American classics in a sophisticated, well-designed spot — head to Upstairs at the Kimberly (Midtown East)
A rooftop retreat above Midtown and one of the best NYC rooftop restaurants, Upstairs at the Kimberly serves American brunch and dinner menus alongside a striking view of the Chrysler Building. The space blends old-Hollywood glamour with modern touches—think vintage-style lighting, tufted banquettes, and sleek furnishings that feel both cozy and refined. The menu includes elegant American favorites like tuna tartare, shrimp cocktail, and Kobe sliders.
For creative Mexican food and views of the Brooklyn skyline — try El Nico (Williamsburg)
Set at the top of the Penny Hotel, El Nico serves up lively vibes and reimagined Mexican food. Signature dishes include al pastor tacos and chili relleno. The cocktail program features a deep list of agave-based spirits. The rooftop space is casual yet lively, with string lights, communal tables, and skyline views, making it ideal for weekend catch-ups or relaxed date nights. El Nico earns its place as one of the NYC best rooftop restaurants with an energetic vibe.
For American classics and views of the Hudson River — visit Peak Restaurant & Bar (Hudson Yards)
Located on the 101st floor of Hudson Yards, Peak Restaurant & Bar is where you go for upscale American dishes and expansive city views. The seasonal, modern American menu is shaped by chef Rose Noel’s close connections with regional farmers, fishers, and producers and includes a range of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan dishes. The terrace’s glass‑walled seating and sleek high‑top tables create a luxe, modern atmosphere.
For traditional Korean barbecue in a trendy penthouse and one of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC — visit GAONNURI (Midtown West)
Located high above Midtown, GAONNURI blends traditional Korean barbecue with sweeping views of the New York City skyline. The menu includes grill-your-own selections, including Wagyu beef and duck breast, alongside comforting soups, shareable appetizers, and housemade desserts. Thoughtful wine pairings and Korean-inspired cocktails round out the experience. With its warm hospitality and refined setting, it’s one of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC for standout Korean cuisine.
For classic cocktails and skyline views — try Penthouse on Park (Gramercy Park)
Penthouse on Park is a luxurious cocktail bar and lounge located on the 22nd floor of the Royalton Park Avenue. Crafted cocktail favorites include a mezcal margarita and a honey-nut old fashioned. Fancy small plates such as classic shrimp cocktail, caviar deviled eggs, and pork belly sliders, complement the drink menu. Plush seating, velvet accents, and fire-lit terrace heaters create a stylish yet relaxed rooftop vibe, ideal for golden-hour gatherings.
For classic cocktails and small plates in an elegant dining space — try Nubeluz (NoMad)
Nubeluz is an opulent rooftop cocktail bar from celebrated chef José Andrés. The bar serves modern takes on classic cocktails, like the brown butter sidecar and pisco punch. A selection of caviar, small plates, and sweets complement any drink choice. Mirrored surfaces, jewel-toned banquettes, and moody lighting add to the sophisticated, luxe ambiance, set against sweeping views of the New York City skyline.
For American small plates and iconic views of Manhattan at one of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC — try Refinery Rooftop (Midtown West)
Tucked atop the Refinery Hotel, Refinery Rooftop blends industrial-chic style with unobstructed Empire State Building views. Recognized repeatedly as one of the country’s standout rooftop bars, this all-season destination serves crowd-pleasing American fare, from truffle flatbread to grilled shrimp tacos, alongside cocktails crafted with fresh ingredients. The space transitions effortlessly from daytime brunches to a lively evening crowd, with DJ sets and skyline lighting adding to the energy.
For seasonal cocktails, shareable American bites, and views of Times Square — head to PHD Terrace (Midtown West)
Located on the 16th floor of the Dream Hotel, PHD Terrace is a year-round rooftop bar known for skyline views, stylish design, and a vibrant crowd. Bar bites, such as mac and cheese balls and Wagyu sliders, pair with a wide-ranging cocktail menu, including weekday happy hour specials. The multi-level layout includes indoor lounges and open-air terraces, making it a standout among the best rooftop restaurants in NYC for social gatherings with a view.
From upscale American classics and Italian garden fare to vibrant Mexican dishes, Korean barbecue, and sky-high lounges, these are truly the best experiences the city has to offer. Each rooftop brings its own character, whether with panoramic vistas, seasonal menus, or luxe lounge decor.
