We’ve all seen it. The elongated line of bodies that winds around the block between Broadway and Columbus; no, the Upper West Side’s P.J. Clarke’s is not that hot. Don’t get us wrong, we love their juicy burgers more than the average guy, but we ain’t talkin’ ‘bout meat frenzy, here. The masses congregate for what sits atop the neighborhood eatery: The Empire Hotel Rooftop.
Distant from its downtown skyline doubles, The Empire Rooftop provides an expansive view of Lincoln Center, Central Park and the remainder of the Upper West Side from its three 12th floor terraces and indoor bar, which combined; ring in at nearly 8,000 square feet. The festivities here will go on, rain or shine, as this rooftop features retractable glass panes for inclement weather – and an inviting fireplace for the months of sub-zero temperatures.
The terraces offer (offer is the key word, here.) bottle service at an assortment of tables or at a private cabana complete with luxurious daybeds, flat screen TVs, mini fridges and iPod docking stations with speakers. Bottles of liquor start at $275 and champagne at $120, accommodating an ease on your pocketbook, as well as your evening out. The cocktail list features two specialty concoctions loyal to this UWS hotspot – the ‘Empiretini’ and the ‘UWS Mojito’ – as well as, a range of signature drinks from their worldwide sister properties.
Though the line on the ground floor isn’t for P.J.’s faire, the rooftop serves an array of delectable appetizers to accentuate the palatable cocktails. We suggest the Portobello Mushroom Panini with 50 year-old Balsamic, mozzarella, roasted red peppers, roasted garlic aioli and herb French fries.
Atmospherically speaking, you can count on the Empire Rooftop for a relaxing environ. Here, you won’t have to fight for seats or hide from snaky, little waitresses conning you into handing over money you don’t really want to spend. Blatant pause: 230 Fifth. And let’s be honest, in this city’s cutthroat trenches, we could all use a no-bullshit approach once in a while.
The line is long, but do not let that deter you from entering. Simply bask in the sultry shadows of the Empire Hotel’s neon-red sign or the cooler, though no less astounding, New York City lights for an evening of skyline bliss.
