The Best Rooftop Bar in NYC for Drinks, Bites, and Nightlife

It doesn’t matter if you live in New York City or you’re visiting the Big Apple; when you’re planning a night out, you want to enjoy the nightlife in NYC at the best venue. Heading to an exceptional rooftop bar for drinks is one of the best ways to enjoy a night out in NYC.
The Appeal of the Nightlife in NYC
NYC is known as the city that never sleeps, and the adrenaline-charged fast pace of life in the city is part of its culture and appeal. People fill the sidewalks, cars fill the streets, and you never know what awaits around the next corner.
You could find yourself enjoying a street performer’s act, visiting one of the city’s famous landmarks, taking in one of the over 100,000 festivals NYC hosts annually, or on the edge of a movie set.
While it’s great to take opportunities to explore all the city has to offer, there are still times you’ll want to enjoy the city’s rich nightlife. The best rooftop bars offer craft cocktails and entertainment that appeals to locals and tourists alike.
What Makes Starchild Rooftop Special?
Starchild Rooftop is one of the best rooftop bars in NYC. From our rooftop lounge, you can take in views of the NYC skyline, the Theater District, Times Square, and the Hudson River.
Starchild Rooftop requires upscale attire. When you enter our rooftop bar, you’ll be surrounded by those who’ve dressed to impress during a night out. We host Happy Hour on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.
What Drinks and Food Can You Enjoy Here?
During Happy Hour at Starchild, you can enjoy the following drink options:
- Cocktails, such as cosmos and martinis
- Shots
- Tallboy Narragansett Light beer
- Wine
Our regular menu features the best drinks in NYC, including a wide selection of cocktails, wines, beers, and bottles of spirits. In addition to alcoholic beverages, we serve both small and large plates.
The small plates menu includes the following:
- BLT lettuce wraps
- Chocolate chip cookie shots
- Starchild’s “Totally Addictive” mixed nuts
- Togarashi potato chips
Starchild Rooftop’s large plates menu includes:
- “Disco” crudite
- Imported charcuterie and ripe cheese board
- Mezze Tower
Our regular menu offers a look at all the drinks and dishes we offer.
What Kind of Nightlife or Events Do We Offer?
Music is at the heart of the nightlife at Starchild Rooftop. We feature live musical performances and also schedule DJs to create an upbeat atmosphere for our guests.
Planning your visit to coincide with one of our upcoming musical events ensures you can enjoy one of the nightlife activities we’re known for — dancing. Starchild Rooftop is one of the top NYC dance spots.
When you aren’t hitting the dance floor, you can enjoy the views, enjoy items from our menu, and socialize.
When Is the Best Time To Visit?
Starchild Rooftop is open year-round. One of our most impressive features is our retractable roof; within minutes, we can open or close the roof, ensuring our guests’ comfort during any season.
Those who want a unique seasonal experience can plan a visit when our pop-up spritz bar is open during the summer months. Those interested in a specific nightlife experience can check our calendar of upcoming events and make reservations when a favored performer or DJ is scheduled.
We’re also the perfect option for those who want drinks and bites before or after taking in a show on Broadway. Early birds can visit Starchild Rooftop when we open at 5 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, or at 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Those who thrive at night may prefer to visit during our Happy Hour, which takes place from 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. We’re open until midnight on Tuesday and Wednesday, and 2 a.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Rooftop Experience
Planning ensures you visit Starchild Rooftop when we’re open. We’re closed every Sunday and Monday.
Although Starchild Rooftop does not require guests to have reservations, it’s a good idea to make a reservation for the night you plan to visit. A reservation ensures you won’t miss out. With our proximity to Times Square and the Theater District, we’re a popular option for those taking in a show or touring local landmarks at night.
Planning also ensures you comply with our dress code. We welcome guests wearing upscale attire, which enhances the elegant atmosphere of our prestigious venue.
Savoring the NYC Nightlife at Starchild Rooftop
Starchild Rooftop’s stunning views, live entertainment, and impressive menu make us one of the best nighttime venues in Manhattan. Our upbeat atmosphere and impressive location contribute to the vibrant nightlife you’ll enjoy at Starchild on your next night out in NYC.
Sources:
K, D. (2024). How Many Events Held Per Year in New York? You’ll Be Shocked by the Numbers!
Wilson, J. (2025). New York: the city that never sleeps.
Winkie, L. (2023). Mamma Mia! My altogether unnerving evening dressed as Mario in Times Square.