The Empire Rooftop

- 44 W 63rd St, New York, NY 10023

New York City's landscape is defined by its stunning architecture and vibrant energy, and few experiences capture this spirit as perfectly as a rooftop bar. The Empire Rooftop, located atop the iconic Empire Hotel, stands out as a premier destination for those seeking a luxurious and visually stunning escape above the bustling streets. More than just a place for drinks, this bar is a complete sensory experience, combining panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and Lincoln Center with a sophisticated, lounge-like atmosphere. According to a seasoned traveler, it's a "must-stop" that delivers a unique blend of "calm luxury in Manhattan." The moment you step into the space, you are greeted by an elegant mid-century modern design, complete with dramatic gold starburst chandeliers that set a chic tone. This combination of impressive design, breathtaking vistas, and an expertly crafted menu of food and drinks makes The Empire Rooftop a compelling choice for a wide range of visitors, from those celebrating a special occasion to a local simply looking to unwind after a long day. It’s a place that feels simultaneously exclusive and welcoming, offering a slice of elevated New York life to everyone who walks through its doors.

The location and accessibility of The Empire Rooftop are among its most significant selling points. Situated at 44 W 63rd St, New York, NY 10023, USA, the bar is perched on the top floor of the famed Empire Hotel. This address places it directly across from the world-renowned Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, offering an unparalleled vantage point of the complex. Its position is ideal for both residents and visitors, as it is just a short walk from the major transportation hub at Columbus Circle, which provides access to the A, C, B, D, 1, and 2 subway lines. This extensive public transit network ensures that the rooftop is easily reachable from almost any part of the city. For those attending a show at Lincoln Center, The Empire Rooftop provides a convenient and elegant option for a pre-show cocktail or a post-performance nightcap. The bar itself is an expansive 8,000-square-foot space, thoughtfully designed with distinct areas. It features two large outdoor terraces and an interior Main Lounge, ensuring that even on a busy night, there is plenty of space to find a comfortable spot. One of the outdoor terraces even boasts a retractable roof, making it a viable and attractive option for guests in any season, a crucial feature for a rooftop bar in New York City's ever-changing weather.

The Empire Rooftop offers a comprehensive suite of services that cater to its diverse clientele, ranging from casual guests to those hosting large-scale events.

• Full-Service Bar and Lounge: The establishment operates as a full-service bar and lounge, providing a wide array of cocktails, beers, and an extensive wine list. Patrons can enjoy expertly crafted signature drinks and classic cocktails while taking in the views.
• Food Menu: The bar offers a refined food menu that goes well beyond typical bar fare. This includes a selection of small plates, appetizers, flatbreads, and entrees, allowing guests to enjoy a full meal in the lounge setting. The menu includes notable items like Oysters Rockefeller and a breakfast flatbread, as highlighted by customer reviews.
• Weekend Brunch: For those who wish to experience the rooftop during the daytime, a weekend brunch menu is available. This menu includes popular items like avocado toast and French toast, providing a relaxed, sunlit experience with a view.
• Happy Hour: A happy hour is offered on weekdays, making it an ideal destination for an after-work gathering with colleagues or a budget-friendly outing for locals. A customer review mentioned this, noting that it’s a perfect spot for "happy hour."
• Private Events and Reservations: The expansive space is available for private and corporate events, from holiday parties to social gatherings. The bar’s ability to accommodate up to 250 guests makes it a premier venue for celebrations. The option for making reservations is also a key service, especially for those planning a "date night" or a special get-together.

The experience at The Empire Rooftop is defined by a series of standout features and highlights that make it a compelling destination.

• Breathtaking Panoramic Views: The primary highlight of this rooftop is undoubtedly the view. With "floor-to-ceiling windows with skyline views" and open-air terraces, guests can enjoy stunning, unobstructed vistas of the New York skyline, Lincoln Center, and the surrounding Midtown landscape. The views are a constant, memorable backdrop to the entire experience, particularly at sunset.
• Exceptional Cocktails and Beverage Program: The drink menu is a major draw. A customer review praised the drinks as "delicious," with a specific mention of a bartender creating a custom "smoked peach passion cocktail." The existence of such a bespoke drink shows a high level of mixology skill and a commitment to a premium beverage program. The menu also includes classics like a "dry martini Tito’s" and a wide selection of wines and beers.
• Sophisticated Atmosphere and Design: The bar's ambiance is one of its most celebrated features. Described as having "upscale mid-century lounge energy" and a "buzzy" yet "chill" vibe, the decor, which includes "gold starburst chandeliers," makes the space feel luxurious without being stuffy. This is a bar that looks and feels like a high-end destination, as noted by the review that described it as "calm luxury in Manhattan."
• Quality Food Menu: While some food items may have a mixed reception on value, the quality of the cuisine is a highlight. The Oysters Rockefeller were described as "savory, indulgent, and just the right touch of brine." This shows a focus on quality ingredients and preparation that goes beyond what is expected from a typical bar food menu.
• Attentive and Knowledgeable Service: The staff is a key element of the bar's success. A review commended the bar staff as "on point," "attentive, knowledgeable, and personable." This commitment to providing a high level of service ensures that guests feel welcomed and well-cared for, elevating the overall experience.

For those planning a visit to The Empire Rooftop or seeking more information, here is the essential contact information.

Address: 44 W 63rd St, New York, NY 10023, USA

Phone: (212) 265-2600

Mobile Phone: +1 212-265-2600

So, with all of this in mind, what is truly worth choosing about The Empire Rooftop? The answer lies in its ability to offer a multi-faceted and consistently elevated experience. It is a place where you are not just paying for a drink; you are paying for the stunning view, the sophisticated ambiance, and the impeccable service. As one reviewer stated, it is "ideal for date night, happy hour, or solo unwinding above the city," indicating its versatility for various occasions. While one customer found the value of certain food and drinks to be lacking, this kind of feedback is to be expected in a high-end, urban setting. The fact that the same customer still rated the food as "good" overall and found other items like the breakfast flatbread to be "really good" shows that the menu has its strengths. The glowing review from a traveler, who found the entire experience memorable due to the custom cocktail, the views, and the attentive staff, provides a strong case for its unique value proposition. The Empire Rooftop is an excellent choice for anyone looking to make a moment special, whether it's a celebration, a first date, or simply an evening spent appreciating the city's beauty. It delivers a combination of comfort, style, and culinary excellence that is hard to find, all set against one of the most magnificent backdrops in the world.

The Empire Rooftop

44 W 63rd St, New York, NY 10023, USA