A city that makes the most of the space that it’s got, New York has a roster of rooftop bars that is second to none, and with real estate prices always on the rise, we’ve earned the right to partake in some revelry at the highest of heights. Given Manhattan’s stunning skyline, water vistas, and diversity of skyscrapers, the views are reliably compelling. While about a decade ago most rooftop bars fell into some predictable camps (stuffy hotel bars or rowdy after-work spots), today there’s a delightful range of sky-high bars offering world-class cocktails, craft beer brewed right downstairs, and some settings that are downright whimsical. Here are our picks for the best rooftop bars in NYC.
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Every restaurant on this list has been selected independently by Condé Nast Traveler editors and reviewed by a local contributor who has visited that restaurant. Our editors consider both high-end and affordable eateries, and weigh stand-out dishes, location, and service—as well as inclusivity and sustainability credentials. We update this list as new restaurants open and existing ones evolve. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
