Up On The Rooftop

Considering that the weather in New York City is getting slightly better I thought I would encourage the sun to stay by reviewing a few of my favorite rooftop bars in Manhattan.

The first is The Hudson Hotel.I first heard of this place through reading my gossip magazines and celebrity sighting web pages (no shame here, it's my thing, let it go). This hotel is Lady Gaga's favorite place to stay in when she visits New York -and knowing (and loving) her eclectic style I had to go and check it out for myself.

The entrance of the hotel is very mysterious, with translucent doors and false fire torches perched on either side. Upon walking through the only way to go is up, with an escalator shining in florescent yellow, leading the way. The reception of the hotel is incredibly original; the lighting is extremely dim, almost Gothic, with black marble desks and a large, crystal chandelier drooping from the high ceiling.

Their Library Bar is really a unique experience. I love it because it has a very English feel. It quite literally is a grand library with a fully stocked bar in one corner. The walls are covered in all kinds of books (think of the library in Disney's 'Beauty & The Beast'!)There is also a very sophisticated looking Billiards table, as well as a couple of chess boards by large, leather armchairs. It has a very cozy, traditional feel of Grandpa's Cigar and Brandy room. The bar, although expensive, makes up for it by the quality of the cocktails and wine.

But the main feature of this bar that I love - is the open terrace. Covered in couches, benches, seats and cushions, lit by candles and fairy-lights, decorated with exotic plants and stone statues, this terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a drink with your friends in the Summer air. It closes at 12am so as not to disturb the guests, so I recommend arriving early!

A totally different feel, but yet just as a satisfying experience, is the rooftop bar at 230 Fifth Avenue
The fantastic thing about this bar is that it can be enjoyed even when the weather isn't at its finest! The Rooftop provides many red, warm robes to snuggle up in when the wind gets too cold. It is such a funny sight to see girls all dressed in Chanel and Louboutins, covering themselves in the matching red robes!

The view is exquisite - the best I have seen of the Empire State Building. It has palm trees and patio heaters to keep in with the Summer feel, and the wooden benches and tables create a relaxed atmosphere for such an impressive space. The cocktails are delicious - if a little pricey - so go when money is not an issue (or at least when you'll be getting so drunk you wont notice the bill...)
I have yet to go to their Weekend Brunch, but will be planning to do so as soon as the sun comes out!

And thirdly the rooftop lounge Mad 46 at the Roosevelt Hotel is the perfect spot in the summer. Located on the 19th floor, you are right under the Manhattan Skyline and have breathtaking panoramic views. The lounge is a huge attraction for happy hour and post-work drinks. The crowd is professional and sophisticated, and despite the lounge being so elegantly decorated, the atmosphere is still relaxed and gives you the ability to unwind after the stressful day at the office. What makes Mad 46 even more perfect is that it is actually the first rooftop lounge that I have been to where you can still enjoy the ‘outdoor’ appeal and stay comfortable even when the weather is not on your side. Mad 46 not only has two indoor lounges (aptly named Uptown and Downtown) but also retractable canopies – which have been ideal this summer with the strong heat and frequent showers! The rooftop prides itself on ‘Big Drinks and Small Bites” and the menu leaves you with plenty of choice. Their specialty cocktails are delicious – especially the madMojito! However, the attractions don’t stop there. Mad 46 hold a special “Mad Monday” happy hours where those who work or live on Madison Avenue are treated to 10% off their drinks! If that doesn’t inspire you then take note of their monthly movie nights where iconic movies are shown with matching cocktails. For example, coming up on August 16th is the showing of Grease with cocktails such as the Grease Lightening and the Pink Lady Lemonade! So whether you want to go enjoy a night with the girls, a business drink at the end of the workday or even hold a spectacular private party or event – Mad 46 is definitely a space to be considered!