As soon as the temperature goes above 21 degrees Celsius New Yorkers go wild. It is officially rooftop season and getting to the hottest rooftop bars, even at 5pm, is harder than getting into clubs on the weekend. There are different rooftop bars depending on what you are looking for. I’ve compiled a list of a few places that I’ve been to: Mr. Purple, Hotel Chantelle, Pod39, and Gallow Green.

Mr. Purple sits atop Hotel Indigo’s 15th floor. It’s a cool spot but is often filled with young professionals on the prow. Peak time is after 5pm to until 10pm. The drinks are nice, the views are beautiful, but if you are looking to catch a post-work drink with a similar ambiance I would suggest going to Loopy Doopy. Although it is as crowded, their drinks are spin on the regular, with each drink having a different flavor of a fruity alcohol-soaked popsicle inside.

Hotel Chantelle and Gallow Green are similar in style and in the crowd they attract. The main difference is their location: Hotel Chantelle is on Ludlow Street while Gallow Green is in the heart of Chelsea. Although not far from one another, I would recommend to go to Hotel Chantelle for brunch. Although the view from the rooftop is nothing special the décor is beautiful and they have a dj and live jazz every weekend. If you’re coming with a party of six or more I would recommend getting the white wine Sangria bowl. It tastes like summer and feels like bliss. Gallow Green is also a great brunch spot but I would recommend going there a little later in the day because it turns into a great lounge at night. Either way, you can’t go wrong!

Lastly, Pod39 is a hidden midtown gem that many people dismiss because of its location but I urge you not to. Although this spot is not as trendy as the others it has a beautiful old Spanish décor with dainty gold lights hanging across the rooftop. The views are unlike any other and the drinks are delicious without breaking the bank. The crowd is a mix of different people and embodies what a true New York space should look like. Because of the way the space is situated it is very easy to start a conversation with the people next to you or, to stick to your group of friends. I went there at around 10pm and although it was crowded it did not feel stuffy at all because of the wide terrace and 360° city view.

Let me know if you visit any of these rooftops and what turns out to be your favorite!

XOXO LenLenStyle