Raising the Bar
By Denise Mattia
With warm weather upon us, seasoned New Yorkers have been enjoying longer days at food festivals, outdoor performances in the park, and al fresco dining on rooftops. From trendy hot hotel perches to low-key people-watching hideaways, let’s take a tour around Manhattan for the best roof bars that are as unique in atmosphere as their location. Breathtaking views are only some of the perks you’ll find while you’re on top of the world.
A gorgeous 360-degree vista of New York as far as the eye can see mesmerizes most who call on this inviting garden space. Trees, plants, and a contemporary fireplace are on rollers and can be moved around to add ambiance and privacy for weddings and events, and an entire section can be closed off by a glass-paneled garage door during winter. Megan Boledovich cares for the foliage and hydroponic towers on the lounge and is the forager who purchases ingredients from local farms and regional suppliers. Signature cocktails are cleverly named for typographical fonts. Try the favorite; the Rockwell mixed with bourbon, ginger carpano Bianco and grapefruit juice. There is a good selection of wines by the glass and beers. Assorted Salumi plate, farmstead cheeses, hummus, olives, and nuts make up the small bite menu. Like the lounge, the Print restaurant is casual and elegant and specializes in a farm-to-table menu.
The Press Lounge at the Ink48 Hotel
653 Eleventh Avenue
212-757-2224
thepresslounge.com
Colorfully painted walls with images of Cuban entertainers like the DeCastro Sisters and revolutionaries like Che Guevara and the gigantic water tower that stands at the bar greet guests as they enter this popular Soho hotspot. Open during warm weather months, Azul on the Rooftop features a breathtaking 360-degree view of New York’s Lower Manhattan as well as the iconic Empire State Building. On Sunday evening the Grupo Irek Cuban band is the crowd pleaser, as is the powerful Mojito, the Moonshine Negroni, and the Giggle Juice. Bocaditos (tiny sandwiches) are served from 5 to 11 pm as well as guacamole & chips, homemade soft-shell corn tortillas, and the lounges own Pico De Gallo & chips (salsa with fresh ingredients). Be sure to check out Bar Hugo located one floor below to enjoy its open terrace ambience and refreshing breezes.
Azul on the Rooftop at The Hotel Hugo
525 Greenwich Street
212-608-4848
azulrooftop.com
Passing oversized artwork created by Lee Quinones, the legendary subway graffitist, visitors ascend 15 floors and one flight up to Mr. Purple. The chic, lofty-look is evident by the use of wood, concrete, metal pipes and glass globe lights. The skyline is the art. The wide bar, tables and the contemporary leather banquette in the spacious room offer a view of the East Village. During warmer months, open doors lead to a narrow terrace where purple tables and chairs suit intimate gatherings. Lounge chairs, a bar, and an outdoor pool adorn the west side of the building. The famous Mr. Purple cocktail is created with Casamigos Reposado Tequila (George Clooney and business partner Rande Gerber’s creation in 2012), cranberry liqueur, allspice dram, apple and lemon. Beer on tap and bottles also available as well as sparkling wines by the glass or bottle. The extensive bar menu suits all tastes. Hummus, salads, burgers and flatbreads are featured. Try the specialties that include crispy fried calamari and tuna tartare with radish and harissa, served with wonton chips—all spectacular.
Mr. Purple at The Indigo Hotel
180 Orchard Street
212-237-1790
mrpurplenyc.com
Located on the 29th floor of Midtown’s Viceroy Hotel, is The Roof, which offers movers and shakers spectacular views and a chance to unwind. Caramel-colored wood and leather define the space. Images by Montauk photographer Dalton Portella adorn the interior walls. The Roof’s terrace is open year round. The menu features an extensive list of small-batch spirits, regionally brewed craft beers and global wine offerings. Rooftop Lemonade with Belvedere vodka, fresh squeezed lemonade and cucumber is the favorite summer thirst-quencher drink. The small plates include a delicious avocado toast with chili, lemon, and olive oil.
The Roof at The Viceroy Hotel
124 West 57th Street
212-707-8008
theroofny.com
When opened in 1987, critics deemed the bucolic setting, which overlooks Central Park, a detraction from the art. Still, this rooftop bar has become a popular favorite among those meeting for an after-work drink and light fare. Premium spirits and specialty cocktails like the ever-popular Cucumber Mojito are favorites. New on the drink menu is Red Barn Sangria, inspired by the latest rooftop installation, by Cornelia Parker, of the classic red barn and the Bates family’s sinister house from Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. The Crime of Passion cocktail is fast becoming a favorite, too! Wines by the glass, beer, and spiked soda along with salads and sandwiches are also available. If you are a culture aficionado, meander through the exhibitions beforehand to fully appreciate all this museum has to offer (a suggested donation for admission).
The Met Roof Garden Café & Bar
1000 Fifth Avenue
212-535-7710
metmuseum.org
