Top 10 Must-Visit Rooftop Bars in New York

New York City, often dubbed the "Concrete Jungle," is a metropolis that never sleeps. Amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, there's a hidden world of enchanting rooftop bars that offer a respite from the city's hustle and bustle. These elevated oases not only provide spectacular views of the cityscape but also serve some of the most exquisite cocktails, including the iconic Negroni. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the top 10 must-visit rooftop bars in New York, complete with Negroni recipes for you to enjoy.

1. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar

Located at 230 Fifth Avenue in the Flatiron District, 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar offers a panoramic view of the city, including the iconic Empire State Building. With its heated igloos in winter and expansive rooftop garden in summer, it's a year-round destination for both locals and tourists.

Signature Cocktail: Classic Negroni

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Orange Slice (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir well until chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange slice.

2. Le Bain at The Standard, High Line

Perched atop The Standard Hotel in the Meatpacking District, Le Bain offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the New York skyline. This trendy rooftop bar boasts a plunge pool and a dance floor, making it a hotspot for nightlife enthusiasts.

Signature Cocktail: Negroni Sbagliato

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• 1 oz Prosecco
• Orange Twist (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the Campari and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir well until chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Top with Prosecco.
6. Garnish with an orange twist.

3. Westlight at The William Vale

Nestled atop The William Vale in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Westlight offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. This modern and chic rooftop bar is perfect for enjoying sunset cocktails and small bites.

Signature Cocktail: Barrel-Aged Negroni

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Aged in Oak Barrel

Instructions:

1. This Negroni is pre-mixed and aged in an oak barrel.
2. Pour the barrel-aged Negroni into a rocks glass filled with ice.
3. Stir gently.
4. Garnish with an orange peel.

4. The Roof at Viceroy Central Park

The Roof at Viceroy Central Park, perched 29 stories above Manhattan, offers a stunning view of Central Park and the city skyline. This stylish and upscale rooftop bar is a favorite among cocktail aficionados.

Signature Cocktail: Sparkling Negroni

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Sparkling Wine
• Orange Slice (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir well until chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled champagne flute.
5. Top with sparkling wine.
6. Garnish with an orange slice.

5. The Met Rooftop Garden Café and Martini Bar

Located atop the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Met Rooftop Garden Café and Martini Bar offers a unique blend of culture and cocktails. In addition to stunning views of Central Park, this rooftop bar hosts art installations, making it a cultural hotspot.

Signature Cocktail: Negroni Bianco

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Gin
• 1 oz Lillet Blanc
• 1 oz Suze
• Lemon Twist (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, Lillet Blanc, and Suze.
3. Stir well until chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist.

6. The Skylark

Perched 30 stories above the Garment District, The Skylark offers an upscale and chic rooftop experience. With its elegant ambiance and breathtaking views of the Empire State Building, it's a perfect spot for a night out.

Signature Cocktail: Smoked Negroni

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Orange Peel (for garnish)
• Cloche for Smoking

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir well until chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Place an empty glass upside down over the Negroni and smoke it using a smoking gun or cloche.
6. Garnish with an orange peel.

7. Salon de Ning at The Peninsula New York

Salon de Ning, located atop The Peninsula New York, offers a luxurious rooftop experience with views of Fifth Avenue and the city's skyline. This glamorous rooftop bar is known for its eclectic décor and handcrafted cocktails.

Signature Cocktail: Spicy Negroni

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Jalapeño-Infused Gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Orange Slice (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. To infuse the gin, add jalapeño slices to the gin and let it sit for 24 hours.
2. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
3. Add the jalapeño-infused gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
4. Stir well until chilled.
5. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with an orange slice.

8. The Press Lounge

Situated atop the Kimpton Ink48 Hotel, The Press Lounge offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the city skyline. With its extensive wine list and craft cocktails, it's an ideal spot for a romantic evening.

Signature Cocktail: Aged Negroni

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Aged Gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Orange Zest (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the aged gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir well until chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a twist of orange zest.

9. The Crown Rooftop at 50 Bowery Hotel

The Crown Rooftop, perched atop the 50 Bowery Hotel in Chinatown, offers stunning views of the Manhattan Bridge and the East River. This vibrant rooftop bar is known for its lush greenery and creative cocktails.

Signature Cocktail: Smoky Negroni

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Mezcal
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Orange Twist (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the mezcal, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir well until chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange twist.

10. Mr. Purple

Situated atop the Indigo Hotel on the Lower East Side, Mr. Purple offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Williamsburg Bridge. This trendy rooftop bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails.

Signature Cocktail: White Negroni

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Gin
• 1 oz Suze
• 1 oz Cocchi Americano
• Lemon Twist (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, Suze, and Cocchi Americano.
3. Stir well until chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Conclusion

New York City's rooftop bars offer an escape from the urban chaos, providing stunning views and exquisite cocktails, including variations of the classic Negroni. Whether you're looking for a romantic evening, a lively night out, or a cultural experience, these rooftop bars have something for everyone. So, the next time you find yourself in the Big Apple, be sure to elevate your experience by visiting one of these top 10 must-visit rooftop bars and savoring the iconic Negroni while taking in the breathtaking cityscape.