New York City, July 2022 — As summer’s sweltering heat embraced the city, New York’s rooftop bars and outdoor dining establishments became the go-to hotspots for locals and tourists alike. The combination of perfect weather, breathtaking skyline views, and a revitalized economy made rooftops across the city the ultimate destination for socializing, unwinding, and enjoying delicious food and drinks.
In a city that never sleeps, the return of rooftop dining has become symbolic of New York’s post-pandemic resurgence. After two years of lockdowns and restrictions, restaurants and bars across the city were finally able to breathe new life into their outdoor spaces, especially on rooftops, which offer a unique vantage point of the city’s iconic skyline.
A Vibrant Resurgence of Rooftop Dining and Cocktails
With the pandemic waning and restrictions lifting, New Yorkers were quick to return to their favorite outdoor haunts, with rooftop bars offering not only refreshing cocktails but also a sense of normalcy. The city’s rooftops have always been integral to the summer social scene, and their resurgence this year has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm.
At The Press Lounge in Hell’s Kitchen, guests enjoyed stunning panoramic views of the Hudson River, while sipping signature cocktails like the Lavender Collins. Nearby, PHD Terrace in the Meatpacking District brought in crowds eager for late-night vibes and city lights.
Even with the soaring popularity, many rooftop bars were still mindful of safety protocols, ensuring that guests felt secure while enjoying the open air. “We’ve seen a huge increase in traffic this summer,” said John Mitchell, owner of Westlight, a rooftop bar atop the William Vale Hotel in Brooklyn. “People are eager to gather again, and our outdoor space has been a perfect setting for that.”
The Rooftop Experience Beyond Cocktails
While cocktails are the highlight at many rooftop bars, this summer has seen a growing trend of elevated food offerings as well. Many venues have started to focus on providing more substantial dishes, moving beyond the traditional bar snacks and finger foods. Le Bain at The Standard, for example, introduced a fresh summer menu, featuring light, Mediterranean-inspired dishes like lamb meatballs and grilled octopus, perfectly paired with a chilled rosé.
Several high-end venues have also leaned into the trend of offering curated dining experiences. RH Rooftop Restaurant at the Restoration Hardware gallery in the Meatpacking District offers gourmet brunches with views of the Hudson River, including truffle fries and avocado toast, a favorite for Sunday brunch lovers. “The combination of fine food and the ambiance from the rooftop view is unmatched,” said diner Kate Williamson, who visited the space for brunch with friends. “It’s one of those experiences you can’t get anywhere else in the city.”
Elevated Ambiance for Every Taste
Rooftop bars have continued to evolve, catering to a diverse range of patrons with varying tastes. For those seeking more laid-back vibes, Bar LunÀtico in Brooklyn’s Bed-Stuy neighborhood offers a cozy, intimate setting with live jazz music, perfect for a chill evening out. On the opposite end of the spectrum, St. Cloud at the Knickerbocker Hotel provides a more glamorous experience with upscale cocktails, modern décor, and a crowd looking to dance the night away.
Meanwhile, the newly revamped The Skylark in Midtown has managed to strike a balance between chic sophistication and casual comfort. With its retractable glass roof and stunning views of Times Square, it offers patrons an opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds—indoor luxury with an open-air experience. “It’s the perfect spot for after-work drinks or to bring friends from out of town,” said Sarah Lee, a Manhattan resident.
The Comeback of Open-Air Dining in NYC
Along with rooftop bars, outdoor dining continued its post-pandemic resurgence across the city, as many restaurants expanded their outdoor seating options. From trendy neighborhood spots in Williamsburg to upscale dining near Central Park, the availability of alfresco dining became a major draw during New York’s scorching summer months.
The dining experience in New York had undergone a dramatic shift during the pandemic, and this summer saw many businesses fully embracing open-air spaces. According to the NYC Hospitality Alliance, the city’s outdoor dining program, which allowed restaurants to extend their seating outdoors, played a significant role in the recovery of the restaurant industry. It also brought new life to many neighborhoods that had previously lacked such options.
The rise of Sidewalk Cafes and “Parklet Dining,” which took over street parking spaces to accommodate seating, offered New Yorkers an opportunity to dine in a more casual yet unique environment. Brooklyn’s Lella Alimentari utilized its outdoor space on Wythe Avenue to bring a European-style experience to the city, offering Mediterranean-style meals with an unobstructed view of the Brooklyn skyline.
Rooftop Dining: A Key Aspect of NYC’s Recovery
Rooftop dining and outdoor bars were more than just a summer trend for New York City; they were a cornerstone in the city’s broader recovery efforts. With thousands of restaurants and bars forced to close during the height of the pandemic, New York’s hospitality sector was hit hard. But with the warm weather and growing optimism, the city’s iconic rooftops became a symbol of resilience and reinvention.
As the city continued to recover, restaurateurs, chefs, and bar owners have been capitalizing on the outdoor dining trend to bring new offerings and experiences to their patrons. The return of rooftops wasn’t just about great food or a fun night out—it represented a thriving, revitalized New York City ready to reclaim its place as the world’s cultural and culinary capital.
The Future of NYC’s Rooftop Bars
Looking ahead, many experts believe that rooftop bars and outdoor dining will remain a staple of New York’s restaurant scene, especially as the city’s hospitality sector continues to recover. According to restaurant consultant Abby Davidson, “Rooftop spaces give businesses the flexibility to serve patrons in a safe, open-air environment while offering a great experience. Even with the fall and winter months approaching, many venues are planning to invest in retractable roofs and heaters to extend the season.”
As temperatures begin to cool later in the year, New Yorkers will likely continue flocking to their favorite rooftops—whether to savor a classic cocktail with the skyline as a backdrop or to enjoy a cozy winter meal under the stars.
In a city that’s always on the move, the rooftops have become a permanent fixture in the New York dining and drinking scene, offering a little piece of paradise in the middle of one of the busiest places on Earth.
