2025: Manhattan Voted JIMMY Best Outdoor Atmosphere!
JIMMY
15 Thompson Street
(212) 465-2000 – jimmysoho.com
There’s nothing quite like sipping cocktails under the city skyline, and the 2025 Winner in the Outdoor Atmosphere category, Jimmy at the James New York, captures that magic flawlessly. Perched high above the bustling streets, this rooftop retreat offers panoramic views, chic design, and an ambiance that feels effortlessly sophisticated. Guests love the balance of laid-back comfort and upscale style, whether lounging poolside in summer or cozying up by the fire in cooler months. With expertly crafted cocktails and a vibe that blends elegance with urban energy, it’s the perfect spot to unwind or celebrate. Each visit promises breathtaking views, refined drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere that defines New York rooftop luxury at its finest.
2024: Manhattan Voted Jimmy at the James New York Best Outdoor Atmosphere!
Jimmy at the James New York
15 Thompson St
(212) 465-2000 – jimmysoho.com
Perched 18 stories high in Soho, JIMMY at The James stands as one of New York City’s premier rooftop bars. This iconic venue, reimagined with a nod to Picasso’s Blue Period, offers an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere with vintage and contemporary furnishings, complemented by a wood burning fireplace and panoramic windows that frame sweeping views of Midtown, Wall Street, the Hudson River and the East River bridges. JIMMY distinguishes itself with one of the city’s few outdoor pool decks, creating a unique experience for guests. The venue adapts effortlessly to the seasons: during colder months, guests gather around the plush blue and leather velvet modular furniture in the cozy indoor conversation pit, while warmer weather invites visitors to enjoy the rooftop’s daytime chaises and evening cocktail seating.
2023: Manhattan Voted Vida Verde Best Outdoor Atmosphere!
Vida Verde
248 West 55th Street
(646) 657-0565 – vidaverdeny.com
At Vida Verde, everyday feels like a celebration, and it’s all about the bright, positive vibes. This Mexican restaurant has a fun and exciting atmosphere with bright neon colors decking both the interior and exterior. The outdoor patio is surely no exception, sporting neon-colored chairs and a colorful mural as the space’s backdrop. Vida Verde hosts private events for parties of eight or more people in this vibrant outdoor space. The venue is also a 21-and-over establishment at all times, so it is always an adults-only atmosphere. The restaurant offers its patrons full brunch, lunch, and dinner menus, and many different types of cocktails for either a fun afternoon or an exciting late night out. Reservations are recommended to this popular spot.
2022: Manhattan Voted Bar d’Eau Best Outdoor Atmosphere!
Bar d’Eau
246 Spring St, 7th Floor
(212) 842-4558 – thedominick.com
What’s better than a nice cold drink and amazing grub while sitting poolside? Bar d’Eau will transport you to the tropical vacation of your dreams atop the 7th floor in SoHo. Offering craft cocktails & elevated bar bites daily, you can bring some friends and find yourself staring at the sunny skies or starry nights, while relaxing next to the beautiful pool. This is a unique experience that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else in the concrete jungle. What will really blow you away is the amazing attention to detail, where their world-class staff will make you feel like you’re being pampered with the best of them! And the food is mouthwatering. Sushi? Great. Lobster roll? You bet. Shrimp cocktails? Of course. Go ahead and treat yourself, you’re just a short trip and an elevator ride from paradise.
2021: Manhattan Voted Sweet & Vicious Best Outdoor Atmosphere!
Sweet & Vicious
5 Spring St (Between Elizabeth and Bowery)
(212) 334-7915 – www.sweetandvicious.com
Few things are as pleasurable on a spring or summer night than relaxing outdoors and sipping cold drinks with friends. Sweet & Vicious is a bar located in the heart of Nolita that opened in the summer of 1998 and has been a popular downtown destination ever since. Its cozy back patio is open and its garden is filled with art. Sit back and order from the bar’s extensive drink menu. The frozen margaritas take center stage and, while taking in the breeze, decide if you want the classic version or guava, jalapeno tequila, mango, peach, pomegranate liquor or strawberry variety. The fruit-based drinks are made with actual fruit, not flavorings. So go ahead and count it towards your recommended fruit servings for the day!
2020: Manhattan Voted Pier A Harbor House Best Outdoor Atmosphere!
Pier A Harbor House
22 Battery Pl
For a city surrounded by water, there is a surprising lack of options for diners keen on watching the sun set over the Hudson River, which is why Pier A Harbor House is something of a cherished rarity for diners on Manhattan Island. But wait, there’s more! Not only Does Pier A have the first floor Oyster House where patrons can dine on the water, there are three distinct floors with different amenities! Be sure to check out the new colonial themed bar called Blacktail on the second floor, and for a particularly spectacular venue, the third floor can be rented out for events.
