Cocktails With a View in Midtown

Sara cocktails
Sara cocktails

All photos by Sara Gorelick.

In New York, where temperatures have jumped 30 degrees seemingly overnight, bar-goers are looking for outdoor options that will allow them to bask in the warm sun. Enter the Roof at the Viceroy, where patrons can get the view and the cocktails (albeit at a hefty pricetag) they have been craving after an exceptionally long winter.

While countless Manhattan bars serve their guests top cocktails in an outdoor setting, few do it with a view that will rival the Roof at the Viceroy. Situated on the hotel’s 29th floor at 57th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues, there is an unobstructed line of sight straight to the north end of Central Park – not a small feat in a city known for towering skyscrapers. Don’t be fooled by the silver door sans sign, atop the building is a swinging bar filled with a hip, young crowd eager to be seen and spend $18 on a fancy version of a mojito. The staff is courteous and fast, which is necessary in a bar filled with investment bankers looking to impress in the happy hour limelight. Although a little loud for conversation, The Roof is perfect to showcase Manhattan at its (often stereotypical) finest – from the views to the clothes to the food and drink pricetags. The menu consists of smaller bites, classic cocktails (Moscow Mules, Negronis and the like), and house cocktails (mostly twists on classic drinks). Vincent Mauirello, the director of the bar program for Gerber Group, has created the bar’s cocktail list to form “a balance between edgier house cocktails and well-built classics.” We particularly enjoyed a cocktail called Without Fear, a very drinkable whiskey tipple made with Jameson Black, apricot liqueur, fresh lemon and Angostura Bitters. The drink was nicely balanced, fruity and refreshing enough to compliment a warm day but boozy enough to imply a serious cocktail.

Sara skyline
Sara skyline

The outdoor décor is modern and simple, with heat lamps to keep guests warm on chillier nights. As an alternative, the space also boasts a handsome wooden interior room with a long bar and tables (seating outside is more limited). A word to the wise - be nice to your neighbors because you will undoubtedly be asking them to take your photo in front of that gorgeous view.

Vitals:

Location: 120 West 57th Street between 6th & 7th Avenue, 29th Floor

Opened: March 2014

Total capacity: 120

Good for: Impressing clients, lively birthday get together

Not good for: First date

Don’t forget: Your camera

Hours: 4 pm – 4 am daily

Thanks to the Roof at the Viceroy for the splendid hospitality! Cheers!