Fine Dining With a View: The Best Rooftop Restaurants for a Sophisticated Night Out

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Looking to elevate your nightlife? Look no further than rooftop bars, the ultimate perch for sipping cocktails, soaking up the skyline, and feeling like the queen or king of the city. Leave the crowds behind and take your social life to new heights — quite literally! 

You’ll find some of the best rooftopdining rooms and restaurants in NYC, this is true. But we can’t sleep on so many other locations all over the world that have views for days! Rooftop dining doesn’t have to be just a special occasion kind of affair, either. Experiencing open-airpanoramic views can happen year-round with possibilities all over the globe for a night out with your best Judies. 

We've got you covered whether you're in the mood for appetizers on a glamorous rooftop lounge or a laid-back spot with unbeatable views. So grab your squad, get ready to be wowed, and join us for the ultimate views of the city.

After all, the only thing better than a good view is a good view with a drink in hand!

The Best Restaurants with Skyline Views

Impress your date by leading them up the elevators at one of these highrise restaurants with cityscape ambiance in spades. Fire pits and live music await you at some of these rooftop restaurants in the middle of the bustling city. 

There is just something that feels magical about the twinkle of city lights on a warm night. 

Perch

If you're looking for a trendy spot in LA with killer views, fire pits, and even better food, you need to check out Perch.

The vibe is chic and upscale, with plenty of Instagram-worthy photo ops. And the food? Let's just say that you'll want to loosen your belt buckle before you dig in. From the truffle fries to the steak frites to brunch, every bite is a flavor explosion.

As for the celebs, well, they flock to Perch like seagulls to a bag of french fries. From movie stars to musicians, this place has seen it all. But don't worry — the staff is too cool to get starstruck, so you can enjoy your meal in peace.

Area 31

Our next rooftop joint takes us to Florida – Miami, to be precise. Miami’s skyline is best viewed from Area 31, a seafood restaurant whose name refers to the dock number that supplies the area with most of its seafood. 

Those looking for non-seafood options will also have just as many selections, from wagyu beef to risotto alfredo. Mouth-watering seafood is why you’ll want to come to Area 31, though, let’s be real.

So if you want to dine in style and take in some seriously stunning views, head on over to Area 31. Just be prepared to feel a little starstruck — you never know who might be sipping a cocktail next to you.

Rooftop Cocktail Bars Worth Visiting

Rooftops aren’t just for fine dining restaurants. Some of the best spots for soaking up some sun on a skyscraper involve tequila and mimosas. Here are our can’t-miss cocktail bars to boost the Hot Girl factor during your next night out.

Sugar

For a night out in Miami, Sugar is an oasis on a rooftop. Surrounded by plants and full of the nightlife vibes, you can get 360-degree views and a wide selection of alcohol. 

Sugar is the epitome of the casual Miami night scene. The vibe is swanky and stylish, with plenty of tropical themes and Instagram-worthy photo ops. Tropical vibes when sipping on a refreshing margarita and taking in the glittering city lights? C’mon, sis. There ain’t nothin’ better.

Vue

Vue really delivers views of one of DC’s most iconic buildings; the Washington Monument. Vue’s proximity to the historic buildings makes it a quick and easy bar to visit when in the country’s capital. 

This chic lounge on the rooftop of Hotel Washington sits on the 11th floor, which is perfect for a night near the sky. Get ready to feel like you're part of the inner circle — this place is seriously exclusive.

New York City’s Best Rooftop Bars and Rooftop Restaurants

If seeing NYC’s gorgeous skyline leaves you hungry for a view, you’re not alone. If you manage to take a trip to the most populous city in the US without a stop at a rooftop eatery, you’re doing it wrong. 

Sorry, not sorry. We’ll forgive you if you make it a point to hit up one of these iconic rooftop spots in New York City the next time you’re in town.

Westlight

Brooklyn is famous for its vibrant enclaves, such as the hipster haunt of Williamsburg and the walkable neighborhood of Dumbo. Brooklyn is also home to Westlight, a rooftop restaurant and well-stocked bar with views of Manhattan and the East River. 

This place has got it all: a chic and stylish vibe, jaw-dropping views of the Manhattan skyline, and some seriously delicious tapas (small plates) and drinks. From the fancy charcuterie to the Insta-worthy cocktails, every bite and sip is an adventure in cool. 

Their cocktail menus are decently sized, which we are definitely fans of. The beer and wine selection at Westlight is hefty, too, with offerings for every budget.

Beast & Butterflies

Welcome to Beast & Butterflies — the restaurant that's as fun to say as it is to dine at! This place has got a vibe that's equal parts trendy and laid-back, making it the perfect spot to grab a bite with friends.

But let's talk about the food because that's what really sets Beast & Butterflies apart. The menu is an eclectic mix of Asian and Western flavors, with dishes that are both innovative and delicious (Long Island Crab Sliders, anyone?). Think fusion cuisine but without any of the cheesy 90s vibes.

Overall, Beast & Butterflies is a must-visit spot for anyone who wants to experience some seriously cool cuisine in a seriously cool atmosphere. Just be prepared to have your taste buds (and your Instagram feed) blown away.

Unique Rooftop Dining All Over the World

We’ve shouted out quite a few of the most atmospheric rooftop dining experiences in the US. But there is a whole world out there to explore when it comes to rooftop bars and restaurants! Pack your bags and head to these dreamy rooftop restaurants in Europe, Asia, and more.

Ristorante Timeo

Jet-setting to Europe? You deserve to dine in luxury when you just so happen to be in Italy. In Taormina, Italy, you can sit on the rooftop balcony of the Grand Hotel Timeo and enjoy the unobstructed view of the beautiful Italian Coast. I mean, come on!

This place has all the classic Italian dishes you know and love, but with a touch of sophistication that'll have you feeling like a true VIP. They also clearly mark the gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options if that’s your jam. And don't even get me started on the wine list — it's practically a love letter to Italy's best vineyards.

But Ristorante Timeo isn't just about the food. The atmosphere is what really sets it apart. It's romantic, it's cozy, and it's perfect for a date night that'll have you feeling like you're in a Fellini film. Ciao, baby.

Tomo

Upscale shopping, sophisticated nightlife, and luxurious architecture are just some of the pinnacles of Dubai — the latter of which is yours to enjoy at Tomo. After all, Dubai is home to one of the most impressive skyline views in the world. 

The view from Tomo shows this stunning view in one mesmerizing glance. As the sun sets, you’ll see the silhouette of the buildings resemble something from a science fiction movie. The Japanese cuisine that Tomo provides is a la carte, with half and full portions available for some of their dishes. 

Bento boxes, tempura, noodle and rice dishes, wagyu, sushi, and more adorn the large menu. Who doesn’t love a view and some Japanese cuisine in the heart of Dubai? Sign us up.

Quince

The beauty and culture of Mexico always deserve to be celebrated. 

Bienvenidos a Quince, the restaurant that's as charming as San Miguel itself! This place has got a vibe that's equal parts rustic and refined, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. 

The food at Quince is a celebration of all things Mexican, with dishes that are both traditional and inventive. Think classic dishes like tacos, made with locally sourced ingredients and prepared with modern techniques. 

Overall, Quince is a must-visit for anyone who loves great food, great ambiance, and great company. Why not?

Enjoy Your Night Out! 

Have we convinced you to check out some of these rooftop haunts during your next night out? This list is proof that there is so much to love about dining with a view. Rooftops are even being used for agriculture, meaning that soon, rooftop dining can get a whole lot more sustainable. 

Rooftop dining is a social experience that is happening in nearly every corner of the globe. Get your hands on some caviar and your eyes on some unbeatable views with the unforgettable event that rooftop dining provides.

Your next happy hour date can get a lot more sophisticated when you bring a rooftop experience into the mix. Restaurant on a rooftop? We are here for it.

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