Want to soak up the last few days of sun before winter hits full force?
While some rooftop spaces close as soon as Labor Day rolls around, other outdoor bars are a bit more brave, keeping their doors open through the autumn months. So the next time we’re struck with an unseasonably warm day, consider hitting up one of these open air spots and fill up on that sweet, sweet vitamin D.
Here are the best outdoor bars staying up this fall.
JIMMY at The James
This SoHo hotspot does not cool-down when the weather does; instead, the bar keeps visitors cozy with a working fireplace as well as plush, upholstered seating and midcentury era Arco lamps. The menu is inspired by American classics and features innovative takes on cocktail favorites such as a Cranberry Sauce Gin and Tonic (Botanist Gin, cranberry sauce, lemon, and tonic) and a Grilled Pineapple Mojito (Brugal rum, pineapple, mint, and lime).
Refinery Rooftop
Refinery keeps its doors open rain, snow or shine thanks to a retractable glass roof. The spacious rooftop boasts breath-taking views of midtown Manhattan as well as top notch menu offerings and creative cocktails. If you’re really looking to celebrate, consider ordering one of Refinery’s Cocktail Caddies, which come with four servings of a variety of drink options including the bar’s signature margaritas. Try the La Otra version for a spicy twist!
Top of the Strand
Another midtown location means ample opportunity to take in the hustle and bustle of the city from 21 floors up. The rooftop of this swanky hotel boasts outdoor fireplaces and a glass retractable roof, so you’ll be able to take in the sights regardless of the weather. When it comes to menu options, cocktail choices include the Secret Garden (gin, strega, elderflower, and mint) and the seasonally-appropriate Leaves on the Ground (vodka, apple juice, rosemary, cider).
Hotel Chantelle
This popular brunch destination recently added a retractable glass roof around its ample outdoor seating space, so get ready to dine al fresco all year long. Hotel Chantelle is a midday meal must for a reason; menu offerings include Truffle Egg Fondue with parmesan cheese sauce and brioche dipping sticks and Bananas Foster Waffles that come dosed in an addictive cinnamon rum syrup. Drink options are equally tempting and include a massive Sangria Punch Bowl composed of white wine, don q rum, peach puree, pineapple and orange liqueur.
Baita
In the winter months, Flatiron’s beloved Eataly takes its rooftop beer garden and transforms it into an Italian ski lodge. Blankets and heat lamps will help keep you warm as the temperature drops while pine trees and rustic log-constructed furniture set the mood. When it comes to the menu, a variety of warm spiked drinks are available as well as a selection of house-made ales and draft beers. Baita reopens on November 1, so get ready to bring your crew there soon.
With the help of these year round rooftop bars, you’ll be able to drink al fresco throughout the holiday season and beyond.