Views of New York: The Empire Hotel Rooftop

The poker-hot-red sign on the rooftop of the Empire Hotel on West 63rd Street at Broadway bathes its patrons in an oven-like glow. In fact, my initial reaction to seeing the packed crowd was a rather mystified observation: They look like they're baking. Like it's one large tanning bed. This is the viewpoint of the outdoor section from the interior bar. But when you stand underneath the huge, retro sign, it does feel somewhat glamorous, giving airs of old New York. It would be interesting to see what the rooftop bar is like on a balmy summer evening, since my experience there was on a chilly night and meant staying indoors for most of the time. The place, itself, is a rather standard, posh bar. The drinks are expensive. The clientele looking like they dressed particularly for the occasion, not exactly a relaxed, casual crowd. That being said, one friend had no problem getting in with jeans on, being accompanied by a handful of more dressed up New Yorkers. The DJ played fun music, with a good mixture of hip-hop, funk and house. I admit, I expected non-stop techno but was pleasantly surprised. They also advertise Jazz Tuesdays, featuring live jazz music from 6:30-9:30 pm. So, for a Columbus Circle-area spot, it's a good place to stop in and glow glamorously. If only the advertised pool-deck was open to non-hotel patrons….

Empire Hotel Rooftop

44 West 63rd Street at Broadway, 12th floor

Open Monday-Saturday 5 pm - 3 am

Sunday 5 pm - 12 am

[Image via Empire Hotel]