Nothing elevates a dining experience quite like a meal enjoyed with a breathtaking view. Whether you’re watching the sunset over a city skyline, sipping cocktails by the water, or dining while gazing at distant mountains, rooftop restaurants offer a unique combination of great food and even better vistas. Perfect for romantic dinners, celebratory meals, or just a casual night out with a spectacular backdrop, these elevated spots deliver both unforgettable flavors and panoramic views. Here are some of the best rooftop restaurants around the world to enjoy stunning vistas while dining in style.
1. Perch (Los Angeles, CA)
View: City Skyline, Downtown LA
Best Time to Visit: Sunset, to watch the city light up
Signature Dish: Short Rib Empanadas
Signature Cocktail: The Pomegranate Mojito
Located in the heart of Downtown LA, Perch offers sweeping views of the city skyline. The French-inspired rooftop bistro is a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a laid-back yet chic dining experience. Whether you’re sipping cocktails or enjoying their deliciously crafted menu, the panoramic views make Perch one of LA’s best rooftop spots. The Short Rib Empanadas, with their tender filling and crisp pastry, are a must-try, and the Pomegranate Mojito provides a refreshing twist on a classic.
Pro Tip: Arrive early for the sunset hour—the view over Downtown as the city lights flicker on is absolutely magical.
2. Le Ciel de Paris (Paris, France)
View: Eiffel Tower, City of Paris
Best Time to Visit: Evening, when the Eiffel Tower lights up
Signature Dish: Foie Gras
Signature Cocktail: The French 75
For a romantic dinner with the most iconic view in the world, Le Ciel de Paris on the 56th floor of the Montparnasse Tower is a must-visit. This elegant rooftop restaurant offers a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower, especially at night when the tower sparkles. Le Ciel de Paris is perfect for special occasions, offering gourmet French cuisine like their luxurious Foie Gras. Pair your meal with the refreshing French 75 cocktail for a true Parisian experience.
Pro Tip: Book a table near the windows to catch the Eiffel Tower’s nightly light show. It’s a sight you’ll never forget!
3. Sky Lounge (Bangkok, Thailand)
View: Chao Phraya River, Bangkok Skyline
Best Time to Visit: Sunset to nightfall, for the best view of the river and city
Signature Dish: Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
Signature Cocktail: Bangkok Sling
Located on the 64th floor of the State Tower, Sky Lounge offers a 360-degree view of Bangkok, including the sprawling cityscape and the Chao Phraya River winding through the heart of the city. As night falls, the vibrant city lights combine with the shimmering river to create an unforgettable atmosphere. The Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup) is a standout dish here, and the Bangkok Sling, a local twist on the Singapore Sling, is a crowd favorite.
Pro Tip: This spot can get crowded, especially around sunset. Make a reservation well in advance to snag a prime spot.
4. The Rooftop by JG (Los Angeles, CA)
View: Beverly Hills and Sunset Strip
Best Time to Visit: Sunset, when the sun sets behind the hills and the city lights begin to twinkle
Signature Dish: Spicy Tuna Tartare
Signature Cocktail: The Hibiscus Margarita
Perched atop the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills, The Rooftop by JG combines stunning views with a sophisticated dining experience. The menu features a mix of fresh California-inspired dishes, with the Spicy Tuna Tartare being a popular choice. The view of the surrounding hills and the iconic Sunset Strip is perfect during golden hour, and the Hibiscus Margarita is a beautifully colorful and refreshing cocktail.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a more casual yet chic vibe, this is the place. Be sure to check out their poolside seating for an even more laid-back atmosphere.
5. The View Restaurant & Lounge (New York, NY)
View: 360-Degree View of Manhattan, Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty
Best Time to Visit: Evening, when the city lights sparkle
Signature Dish: New York Strip Steak
Signature Cocktail: The Manhattan
Located on the 48th floor of the Marriott Marquis in Times Square, The View is New York’s only rotating rooftop restaurant, offering a full 360-degree view of the city’s skyline. As the restaurant slowly rotates, diners are treated to an ever-changing view of Manhattan, including landmarks like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty. For a truly New York experience, try their New York Strip Steak paired with a classic Manhattan cocktail.
Pro Tip: Book a table during sunset to catch the golden hour before the city lights take over the skyline.
6. Aqua (San Francisco, CA)
View: San Francisco Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz
Best Time to Visit: Early evening, for views of the bay and sunset
Signature Dish: Dungeness Crab Cakes
Signature Cocktail: Pacific Rim Mojito
Aqua is a stylish seafood restaurant in the heart of San Francisco, offering an elegant rooftop patio with a panoramic view of the San Francisco Bay. The fresh seafood menu features the best of California’s coastal offerings, and their Dungeness Crab Cakes are a must-try. With views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail, such as their refreshing Pacific Rim Mojito, while watching the sunset over the bay.
Pro Tip: Visit on a clear day for the best visibility of the Golden Gate Bridge, and be sure to check out the rooftop bar for a post-meal drink.
7. Sundays in Brooklyn (Brooklyn, NY)
View: Manhattan Skyline, Brooklyn Bridge
Best Time to Visit: Sunset, with the Manhattan skyline in the background
Signature Dish: Wood-Fired Brisket Burger
Signature Cocktail: Smoked Manhattan
For those looking for a more laid-back vibe with amazing views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline, Sundays in Brooklyn is a perfect choice. This rooftop restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere with a fantastic wood-fired menu, and their Brisket Burger is a crowd favorite. The Smoked Manhattan cocktail is a delicious twist on the classic, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of the burger.
Pro Tip: The restaurant can get busy, especially on weekends, so try to reserve a table in advance or get there early to grab a spot with the best view.
8. Cé La Vi (Singapore)
View: Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Skyline
Best Time to Visit: Night, to enjoy the illuminated skyline
Signature Dish: Lobster Laksa
Signature Cocktail: Celavi Passionfruit Mojito
Situated on the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands, Cé La Vi offers one of the most spectacular views in Singapore. With panoramic views of the Marina Bay Sands resort, the Singapore Flyer, and the city’s skyline, this is the place to go for a sunset cocktail or an elegant dinner. Their Lobster Laksa, a flavorful and aromatic noodle soup, is a must-try dish, and the Celavi Passionfruit Mojito offers a tangy, refreshing kick.
Pro Tip: While the view is spectacular day or night, try to visit after sunset to see the stunning skyline come alive with lights.
9. Rooftop at The Standard (London, UK)
View: The Shard, River Thames
Best Time to Visit: Sunset to nightfall
Signature Dish: Grilled Octopus
Signature Cocktail: Elderflower Collins
The Rooftop at The Standard is a chic urban retreat offering incredible views of the London skyline, including iconic landmarks like The Shard and the River Thames. This trendy spot serves a modern British menu with dishes like Grilled Octopus, which is perfectly charred and tender. The Elderflower Collins is a beautifully floral and light cocktail that pairs perfectly with the view.
Pro Tip: Visit on a sunny day to enjoy the terrace’s outdoor seating, but don’t miss it at night when the lights of the city make the view even more mesmerizing.
10. La Rooftop (Mexico City, Mexico)
View: Chapultepec Park, Cityscape
Best Time to Visit: Sunset to night
Signature Dish: Tacos al Pastor
Signature Cocktail: Mezcal Margarita
La Rooftop, located in the hip Roma neighborhood, offers stunning views of Chapultepec Park and the sprawling city of Mexico City. The vibrant atmosphere and delicious Mexican cuisine make it a favorite for both locals and tourists. Tacos al Pastor, a perfect blend of savory pork and pineapple, are a must-try, and their Mezcal Margarita adds a smoky depth to the experience.
Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the sun setting behind the park before the lights of the city start to twinkle.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re enjoying a sunset cocktail, celebrating a special occasion, or simply soaking in the views, rooftop restaurants offer the perfect combination of amazing food and unforgettable panoramas. From New York to Paris, Bangkok to Mexico City, these rooftop spots promise more than just a meal—they offer an experience that will stay with you long after the night is over. So next time you’re in the mood to dine with a view, make sure to check out one of these stunning rooftop venues!