Though New York City has one of the most famous skylines in the world, it has surprisingly few restaurants located in highrises. In recent years that list has gotten even shorter with the destruction of the World Trade Center's flagship Windows On the World in 2001 and the closure of the Rainbow Room in 2009. Thankfully there are still a few restaurants where both tourists and New Yorkers can eat well while sitting in the clouds.
Probably the most famous highrise eatery in Manhattan, the View is a rotating restaurant located on the 48th floor of the Marriott Marquis Hotel in the heart of Times Square. Though it is undeniably touristy and the food won't win any awards, there is something magical about twirling 360 degrees above the city away from the bustle below. Guests can munch on American classics like a 7 oz. filet mignon, rack of lamb, and a Berkshire pork chop. The lounge offers a dinner buffet including an assortment of artisanal cheeses from the region.
The View
1535 Broadway
48th Floor
New York, NY 10036
212-704-8880
theviewny.com
A contemporary classic was born when Asiate opened on the 35th floor of the Time Warner Center in Columbus Circle, directly adjacent to Central Park. Part of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Asiate offers high end French-Japanese fusion in a pristine setting. Chef de Cuisine Brandon Kida offers creative dishes such as "Buckwheat and Eggs," soba noodles, osetra caviar, and wasabi cream. A duo of Wagyu beef, including both the tenderloin and short rib, is another menu highlight. After dinner enjoy an expertly stirred martini in the Mandarin Oriental's equally stunning lobby lounge.
Asiate
80 Columbus Circle
35th Floor
New York, NY 10023
212-805-8881
mandarinoriental.com/newyork
A more offbeat choice for a rooftop restaurant lies across the East River in Brooklyn, but the view is pure Manhattan. Alma, located in the quaint Columbia Street Waterfront district, offers Mexican food with an unobstructed sunset view of the New York skyline. Enjoy classics like chicken mole and poblanos rellenos or go nouveau with the tofu tacos marinated in achiote and lime juice.
Alma
187 Columbia St.
Brooklyn, NY 11231
718-643-5400
almarestaurant.com
