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Where to Eat and Drink Outdoors in NYC Right Now
April 17, 2025, 2:15.06 pm ET

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Photo: RH Rooftop

Spring is here, and the only proper way to celebrate is with a drink in hand and the skyline in view. From sky-high lounges to tranquil terraces and waterfront gems, these outdoor spots are bringing the vibes all season long. Here's your ultimate guide to al fresco dining in NYC, A to Z.


Photo: ART Rooftop

Art Rooftop – Midtown & SoHo
These twin rooftops are all about chill vibes and serious views. ART SoHo brings craft cocktails, tacos, and downtown glam, while ART Midtown is a lush garden escape with Hudson Yards and One World Trade views. Go for sunset, stay for the scene.


Photo: Chez Zou

Chez Zou – Manhattan West
A jewel box in the sky, Chez Zou is a cocktail lover’s paradise with plush seating and Middle Eastern-inspired snacks to satisfy those late-night cravings. Don’t sleep on the Dirty Zou or the pickle-infused spritz.


Photo: Ci Siamo/Giada Paoloni

Ci Siamo – Manhattan West
This terrace isn’t about flash—it’s about fire. Hillary Sterling’s housemade pasta- and grill-forward menu is a love letter to Italy, served under the open sky with a glass of something Italian in hand.


Photo: Daintree

Daintree – Hotel Hendricks
An Australian-inspired rooftop with Empire State views, a killer natural wine list, and oysters on deck. It's intimate, stylish, and feels like a hidden gem—even in Midtown.


Photo: Dear Irving/Eric Medsker

Dear Irving on Broadway – Theater District
A cinematic rooftop that captures old New York glamour, complete with skyline views and standout cocktails. The Golden Kaluga Caviar Roll and Gibbie Highball are calling your name.


Photo: Elsie Rooftop

Elsie Rooftop – Bryant Park
This chic perch pays homage to design icon Elsie de Wolfe's lavish parties with an upscale, seasonally-focused menu and bespoke cocktails. Sophisticated but never stuffy.


Photo: Fornino

Fornino – Brooklyn Bridge Park
Atop Pier 6, Fornino’s breezy rooftop delivers wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, fresh salads, and unbeatable sunset views over the harbor. A Brooklyn favorite for good reason.


Photo: Gansevoort Rooftop

Gansevoort Rooftop – Meatpacking District
With coastal European bites, sleek decor, and panoramic river views, Gansevoort Rooftop brings the golden hour energy. The Rooftop Spritz, an elevated aperol spritz, is a must . This is the ultimate escape.


Photo: Haven Rooftop

Haven Rooftop – Sanctuary Hotel
Tucked above Midtown’s chaos, Haven is a twinkly escape for cocktails, classic sliders, and full-on entrees like Branzino or their famous 'Havenly Chicken.' Perfect for date night or group hangs.


Photo: Magic Hour

Magic Hour – Midtown
The city’s most playful rooftop delivers carousel seating, creative cocktails, and Empire State views. This whimsical escape is ideal for a boozy brunch or a night out with extra sparkle.


Photo: RH Rooftop

RH Rooftop – Meatpacking District
Elegant, calm, and dripping in natural light, this rooftop garden above the RH showroom pairs classic American fare with chandeliers and champagne. Hop on the all-glass elevator for a night on the town.


Photo: Starchild Rooftop

Starchild Rooftop – Theater District
Sky-high, all-season, and always a vibe. Expect 360-degree views, glittering skyline, DJ sets, and a sparkling crowd. Pro tip: visit the disco ball bathroom before you leave.


Photo: Sushi Lab

Sushi Lab Rooftop – Sanctuary Hotel
A serene rooftop garden serving omakase, nigiri, and inventive sushi rolls in a floral setting. It’s romantic, refined, and just far enough above the fray.


Photo: Tavern on the Green

Tavern on the Green – Central Park
A quintessential NYC experience dating back to 1934. With its expansive patio tucked into the park and a seasonal menu led by Chef Bill Peet, Tavern offers one of the city’s most iconic open-air dining moments.


Photo: Unlisted

UNLISTED – Lower East Side
Graffiti meets gourmet on this hidden LES dream terrace and scenic views. With cocktails served in spray paint cans and wagyu hot dogs, this place doesn’t take itself too seriously—but still delivers.


Photo: Zou Zou's

Zou Zou’s – Manhattan West
Flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean served in a space that feels like a party. The patio is lively, the lobster kebas are lovely, and the meze are meant for sharing.

Terrace or rooftop, spritz or steak—outdoor dining is back, and we’re here for all of it.

ALSO SEE:

NYC ROOFTOP BARS TO TRY FOR DRINKS WITH A VIEW 2025



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