NYC News

First Look at Hudson VU, NYC’s New Rooftop Hotspot
May 7, 2025, 2:49.56 pm ET

Print


Photos: Michael Tulipan

Opening May 8, Hudson VU is set to bring a more refined rooftop experience to Manhattan’s West Side. Perched on the 16th floor of the Ink 48 Hotel, this sprawling 10,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor lounge delivers jaw-dropping 360-degree views—from sunset over the Hudson River to the neon buzz of Times Square—and a serious culinary upgrade from the usual rooftop suspects.

At the helm is Executive Chef Samuel-Drake Jones, whose pedigree includes stints at Kissaki Omakase, Bobby Flay’s Gato, and Michelin-recognized Sweetbriar. His New American menu is seasonal and chef-driven, balancing familiar comforts with playful finesse. Early standouts include corn ribs with lime zest and chili, steak tartare with tallow aioli, and Birdcage Fried Chicken served with housemade harissa hot sauce and corn-shaped cornbread. The 11th Avenue Hanger Steak, paired with house kimchi and tamari caramel, is a bold, umami-packed main course.

The cocktail program doesn’t play it safe either. Signature sips include the Intrepid Lady (mezcal, strawberry-mint, lambrusco), a Matchatini (gin, coconut, yuzu liqueur, matcha), and a shareable showstopper called Hello, Handsome, with 14K gold and meant to be shared.

The space itself is a study in elevated rooftop design: indoors, plush chocolate suede banquettes and golden marble accents evoke retro luxury; outdoors, there’s sofa-style seating around a sleek reflecting pool and a teak terrace made for watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand.

Hudson VU opens at 653 11th Avenue (at W. 48th Street) on the 16th floor of Ink 48 Hotel, with a private entrance and dedicated elevator. Hours: 3pm to midnight daily. Smart casual attire required—leave the flip-flops at home.




^Top