Many restaurants in New York offer picturesque views, but not all of them provide a panoramic setting of the Manhattan skyline. Some establishments, however, boast some of the most sought after views of the city. Whether you're a seasoned New Yorker or are just visiting, these spots are a must.
The prestigious New York Marriott Marquis is popular for many reasons, including its lavish suites, intricate interiors and unique packages. But it’s the hotel’s rotating rooftop restaurant, appropriately dubbed The View, that truly leaves an impression with guests. After taking the express elevator up 48 stories, you’ll be seated on a revolving floor, which ensures a constantly changing view of New York City. Located just above the restaurant is The View Lounge, which serves cocktails and a dinner buffet until late in the evening. If you happen to miss your reservation or simply can’t get one in time for the restaurant, you can still head on up to the lounge, where it’s first come, first served. Check out the restaurant’s website for a 360-degree map of everything you’ll be able to see during dinner.
Whether it's a New York sunset you're after, or a panoramic view of Manhattan, Alma offers the best of both. The tri-level building, designed by Alma's owners, provides a different atmosphere on each of its three floors. Since its inception in 2002, guests have frequented this restaurant for its popular roof deck, which is open year-round for brunch and dinner (the deck is heated during the cooler months). Alma's second floor dining room is known for its sunset views, while the bar on the first floor offers a more laid-back ambiance and is typically filled with locals. You can expect both classic and contemporary Mexican cuisine along with a slew of margarita selections. In 2009, Alma received an award from the Michelin Guide, and has also been noted in several national publications including New York Magazine, The New York Times and Travel and Leisure Magazine.
Restaurateur Michael O'Keeffe opened this bustling Brooklyn venture in June 1977. Since then, tourists and locals alike have been flocking to The River Cafe not only for its contemporary American fare, but also for its New York skyline view. Propped on a piece of waterfront near the Brooklyn docks, the restaurant offers something that many dining establishments located in the heart of the city don't: tranquility. You'll have a chance to take in some of the best visuals of New York (the restaurant claims to offer "the most photographed view in America") without the chaos surrounding Central Park or Times Square. Additionally, some top-notch chefs from all over the country have their roots at The River Cafe, including Charlie Palmer, David Burke and Larry Forgione. The restaurant has also received numerous culinary awards from Restaurant and Institutions Magazine, the French culinary guide and the Michelin Guide.
This posh Manhattan spot, located on the Mandarin Oriental’s 35th floor, is known for its award-winning wine collection and innovative Asian-American fare. But Asiate offers more than just what’s inside your glass and on your plate. This destination restaurant draws in plenty of tourists and locals with its floor-to-ceiling views of Central Park and New York City’s sprawling Manhattan skyline. The park itself serves as an inspiration for Asiate’s whimsical focal point, a glittering tree branch sculpture hanging from the ceiling that is meant to symbolize a Central Park winter. And while its intricate interior reflects a bit of winter year-round, the restaurant’s menu changes seasonally to provide the freshest local ingredients.
