When I launched my second book, Feminine Silence, in New York this September, something funny happened. After the event, my friends — all longtime New Yorkers — asked me where we should go next to celebrate. The irony was not lost on me: they live here, I don’t anymore, and yet somehow I still had the answer.
It reminded me that though I’ve moved away, New York leaves a map inside you. The places where you’ve celebrated wins, watched sunsets, and dreamed bigger than your circumstances stay with you. And for me, some of those memories are painted against the glow of rooftop bars.
So, if you ever find yourself in Manhattan looking for a skyline backdrop that feels a little magical, here’s my list — starting with my forever favorite:
🌆 1. Monarch Rooftop (Midtown)
My number one, without hesitation. Monarch sits 18 floors above Herald Square and gives you that perfect Empire State Building view without the tourist crush. It’s polished but not pretentious, lively but not chaotic — the kind of place you can celebrate a big milestone or have meaningful conversation under the lights. Pro tip: arrive just before sunset to watch the city shift from gold to electric. And the music: best in the city!!!
🌃 2. Mr. Purple (Lower East Side)
Trendy, artsy, and a little bit dramatic — Mr. Purple sits atop Hotel Indigo with sweeping views of downtown and the Williamsburg Bridge. The vibe is modern and cool: craft cocktails, lounge seating, and a lively, creative crowd. It’s the place to go if you want to feel like you’re in the beating heart of a young, ambitious New York.
🥂 3. 230 Fifth (Flatiron)
If you’ve ever googled “best rooftop bar NYC,” you’ve probably seen 230 Fifth. It’s iconic for a reason: panoramic skyline views, palm trees in summer, heated igloos in winter. Tourists love it, yes, but locals know it’s still one of the best for that dramatic, Instagram-worthy moment — and the cocktails aren’t bad either.
🌇 4. The Ready Rooftop (East Village)
The Ready feels like summer camp grew up and moved to Manhattan. Colorful, laid-back, and fun — with retractable glass ceilings that make it all-season. It’s perfect for a casual night with friends who want good tacos, frozen cocktails, and a vibe that says we’re here to have fun, not perform cool.
🍸 5. PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown
If you want a little glam, PHD Terrace delivers. Chic interiors, skyline-facing terraces, and a party energy that’s still elevated. It’s one of those places where you can toast a big life update and then slip into dancing under the city lights.
🌆 6. Westlight (Brooklyn — but worth the bridge)
Okay, not Manhattan — but I can’t not include Westlight. Perched atop The William Vale in Williamsburg, it has some of the most breathtaking Manhattan skyline views. If you want the look back at the city moment, this is where to go. The cocktails are as thoughtful as the view.
🍹 7. Refinery Rooftop (Garment District)
Cozy yet classy, with exposed brick, string lights, and a clear Empire State view. Refinery Rooftop is a favorite for after-work drinks that turn into long conversations. It’s welcoming but stylish — one of those spots that’s just effortlessly New York.
Why This List Exists
I don’t live in New York anymore, but the city raised me in so many ways — as a builder, a dreamer, and now as an author. To be asked by my New Yorker friends where to go out reminded me that even as life moves forward, we carry our cities with us.
So, if you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting out-of-town guests, or just craving a night above the noise, consider this your curated list — from someone who loves New York enough to know when the skyline still matters.
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