Top 10 rooftop bars in the world

After almost 5 years of searching for the best rooftop bars around the world, The Rooftop Guide has finally created a list of our 10 favorite rooftops.

May 15, 2020
Top 10 rooftop bars in the world

We have visited over 800 rooftop bars in every corner of the world, and these are the ones that has made the biggest impact on us.

The factors we have based our listing on are: views, drinks, food, atmosphere, service, interior and sunset. Taking all this into consideration, we’ve come up with a pretty amazing list of what we consider to be 10 best rooftop bars worldwide.

Top 10 rooftop bars in the world - by The Rooftop Guide

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Harriets Rooftop, NYC
1

Harriet's Rooftop & Lounge New York, US

Photo: The Rooftop Guide

"The fantastic view and atmosphere are two reasons why we absolutely love Harriet’s Rooftop in NYC!"

- The Rooftop Guide

Perched on top of the fantastic 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, Harriet's Rooftop & Lounge is an urban chic outdoor / indoor rooftop, open nightly for everyone to enjoy drinks, bites, vibes and views.

View

At Harriet’s Rooftop in Brooklyn, it is all about the view! You’ll be amazed by the spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline when stepping out on the terrace. Sweeping views of Manhattan, East River, The Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.

And during sunset hours you’ll see the sun set behind the skyline creating a colorful and beautiful venue in front of your eyes. A superb opportunity for some great pictures.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Harriets Rooftop, NYC
Photo: www.1hotels.com/
Drinks

They serve well-made and tasty cocktails up at Harriet's every day of the week. You can find most classics like Aperol Spritz, Gin & Tonic, Negroni etc.

You can also combine your own cocktails with a spirit base of rum, gin, vodka or Aperol. If you rather drink wine and beers, there’s a good selection of different alternatives for that as well.

Food

Classic bar bites is the way to go at Harriet’s Rooftop. How about some truffle fries, fish tacos, club sandwich, ceviche and many more classic bites. Everything made to perfection and with a great taste.

Bar bites are the perfect rooftop food and goes very well with the cocktail menu. And the bar bites up here are superb. A must try!

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Harriets Rooftop, NYC
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Atmosphere

During daytime, the rooftop is only open for the hotel guests, where they can enjoy the spectacular rooftop infinity pool. The vibe is harmonious and calm during daytime.

Early evening, after 5pm, the terrace opens for the public and during these first hours the vibe is still sophisticated and nice. But slowly the atmosphere starts to pic up and goes more towards more party and louder music. A perfect transformation that feels very natural.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Harriets Rooftop, NYC
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Service

The service is something you can tell they put a lot of weight and interest in. The waiter’s at Harriet’s Rooftop are very attentive and always works with a smile on their faces.

You can always ask for advises regarding drinks and food and they will gladly help you out. That is something we appreciated very much during our visit.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Harriets Rooftop, NYC
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Interior

When entering the rooftop, you almost feel like stepping out on roof garden. The décor is very lush with lots of plants to create a cozy and natural feeling. You can find both comfy lounge sofas, simple garden furniture’s and standing seats up here.

We loved the lounge sofas. So, if you want the best experience, make sure to book one of those seats in advance. It’s well worth the effort.

Sunset

One of the main attractions at Harriet’s Rooftop is the magical sunset. Probably one of the best in New York and in the whole world.

When the sun sets behind the skyscrapers of the Manhattan skyline it’s hard to find a better rooftop view when sipping on your cocktail. Always check for sunset hours before making your reservation.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Harriets Rooftop, NYC
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
HARRIET'S ROOFTOP & LOUNGE

60 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

More info

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Vertigo & Horizon Grill at Banyan Tree, Kuala Lumpur
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Vertigo & Horizon Grill at Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur

Photo: www.banyantree.com/

"The combo of sky-high rooftop lounge and fine-dining rooftop restaurant is a winner. Add amazing 360-views over all of KL, and you have one of the best rooftop experiences in the world"

- The Rooftop Guide

While the Vertigo Rooftop Bar and Horizon Grill Rooftop Restaurant are two different venues, and you of course can visit just one of them, they are also just a short escalator ride apart. So, if you get the chance, make it the perfect rooftop-combo, with some drinks and the best views at the top floor Vertigo, and dinner at the Horizon Grill terrace (with views almost as good).

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Vertigo & Horizon Grill at Banyan Tree, Kuala Lumpur
Photo: www.banyantree.com/
View

Perched 59 floors up, at the top of Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur, Vertigo offers views with a capital V. Spanning over three sides of the building, you can pretty much choose which part of KL you want to gaze upon.

Probably the best view in all of Kuala Lumpur, and one of the top views in the world. The given focal point are the majestic Petronas Twin Towers, which are right opposite. You might want to reach out and touch them, but you really shouldn’t. Really.

Drinks

The Vertigo drink menu offers pretty much the classic rooftop-selection. You find the old favourite cocktails, like Negroni, Moscow Mule and Aperol Spritz, as well as some crafted signature creations.

There is also an impressive array of whiskey, gin and other spirits, and of course a selection of beer, wine and sparkling.

We tried a couple of the classic cocktails, which tasted just like they should, but without blowing us away.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Vertigo & Horizon Grill at Banyan Tree, Kuala Lumpur
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Food

Vertigo offers a nice set of bar bites, but for the best food experience, it is time to head one floor down, to the Horizon Grill.

The larger part of the restaurant is a stylish indoor dining room with panoramic windows, but try to get a table on the al fresco terrace. Surrounded by greenery, a small river and the majestic skyline, you can enjoy fine dining with both fresh seafood and premium steaks.

We tried a 3-course set menu with wine pairing, including Angus Beef, Catch of the Day and Grille Pineapple. Beautiful in presentation and great in flavours.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Vertigo & Horizon Grill at Banyan Tree, Kuala Lumpur
Photo: www.banyantree.com/
Atmosphere

Vertigo rooftop bar comes with a great lounge vibe, with a mix of murmur and live DJs creating the soundtrack. It's vibrant, but not over the top, and you can have a conversation or just enjoy the beats and the view.

Horizon Grill offers a more sophisticated and upscale ambience, calm but not stiff, perfect to enjoy a fine dinner and some equally fine company.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Vertigo & Horizon Grill at Banyan Tree, Kuala Lumpur
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Service

Both Vertigo and Horizon Grill offers great service. A bit different on each level, but suitable for the setting.

Vertigo has table service (or you order at the bar if you wish), and the quick, friendly and efficient waiters dodging around the terrace helps in creating a fun and vibrant atmosphere.

At Horizon Grill you can expect top class service, worthy of a fine dining venue. Several knowledgeable and friendly waiters will keep you updated on the food and drinks served, and pretty much cater for all you needs. Maybe a photo with the Twin Towers? No problem.

Interior

Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur and the rooftop venues opened in 2018, so it is no surprise that the decoration is modern and stylish.

The Vertigo terrace is covered with comfy lounge chairs, sofas and standing bar tables, all offering great spots to the views. Inside you also find a futuristic bar and a DJ booth.

The Horizon Grill terrace is a bit more subtle, and really beautiful with its garden-like setting. It also feels spacious, with dining tables far enough apart to offer a private experience.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Vertigo & Horizon Grill at Banyan Tree, Kuala Lumpur
Photo: www.banyantree.com/
Sunset

Time for some big words: we would argue that it is almost criminal to visit Vertigo, and not do so during the sunset. If you have a great excuse, ok fine. But it is really something you don’t want to miss.

We visited at a pretty cloudy evening, and it was still a magical experience watching the sun set behind the KL skyline. We can just imagine what it would be like on a clearer day.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Vertigo & Horizon Grill at Banyan Tree, Kuala Lumpur
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Watch: Vertigo & Horizon Grill
VERTIGO & HORIZON GRILL

Banyan Tree, 2 Jalan Conlay, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

More info

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Rossio Gastrobar, Lisbon
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Rossio Gastrobar Lisbon

Photo: www.altishotels.com/

"Rossio is a modern art-deco dream. And while the stylish interior is very impressive, it almost fades in comparison with the amazing cocktails and grand views."

- The Rooftop Guide

Rossio Gastrobar is found on top of the 5-star hotel Altis Avenida, located pretty much right in the heart of Lisbon. While the hotel has had rooftop venues previously, Rossio Gastrobar opened its doors during 2019.

View

Covering ‘the right’ half of the 7th floor rooftop, Rossio serves up some amazing panoramics over the Portugese capital, spanning all the way to Tagus River.

You can watch over Rossio Square right below, and catch the Rua Agustina Arch, Santa Justa Lift, along with many of the Lisbon rooftops.

Drinks

The beverage options up here is really something special. The wine list prepared by sommelier André Figuinha is impressive, but the real wow-factor is in the cocktails.

With a menu that changes by the season, and all ingredients made in-house, the cocktails are namned after the one dominant feature in the drink. Like the ‘Ginger’ (Jack Daniel’s, Rum, Ginger, beer & salted coffee), or the ‘Basil’ (Basil flavoured Tequila, St Germain, Luxardo, Green Chartreuse).

Crafted to perfection, they are both fresh and amazing in taste, as well as beautiful to look at. Naming just one favourite is hard, but it is easier to say that some of them are the very best cocktails we’ve ever had.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Rossio Gastrobar, Lisbon
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Food

While foremost a bar, Rossio also offers an impressive selection of food, that would keep most stomachs happy. And it's definitely not just quantity, but also top-class quality, with dishes created by Michelin star Chef João Rodrigues.

From smaller bites to larger dishes and desserts, the food is perfect to share and presented in a very aesthetic way. Like the shining ‘Fake foie-gras cherries’.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Rossio Gastrobar, Lisbon
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Atmosphere

The vibe at Rossio would best be described as sophisticated, but still very open and relaxed. At least when we visited, during a late afternoon / early evening.

During a couple of hours, the ambience went from very laid-back and not that much people, to vibrant and a pretty much filled terrace. And we can only expect that it turns even more vibrant as the night wears on.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Rossio Gastrobar, Lisbon
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Service

Oh, the great feeling of saying: 10/10! We found the service at Rossio to be just about as good as it gets.

So many smiles all around, knowledgeable staff that really felt like they love what they do, and also loved telling about it. Stories behind the drinks and the food, which are many and interesting.

Interior

As stated, Rossio Gastrobar is somewhat a modern art-deco dream, with a definite wow-factor to it.

Blending indoor lounge and bar with outside terrace, the rooftop is really beautiful, and also feels both spacious and intimate. From the green, black and white armchairs to the lounge sofas and wooden tables, all furniture and details feels well thought of.

And pretty much all seats come with great views.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Rossio Gastrobar, Lisbon
Photo: www.altishotels.com/
Sunset

The sunset over Lisbon is truly amazing. There is something with the ‘color’ of the city that makes it look spectacular during the golden hour.

There are several rooftops in the city that offer fantastic views during sunset, and Rossio Gastrobar is no exception. Golden hour is definitely peak-hour here.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Rossio Gastrobar, Lisbon
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Watch: Rossio Gastrobar
ROSSIO GASTROBAR

Altis Avenida Hotel, 120 Rua 1º Dezembro, Lisbon

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10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Wooloomooloo, Hong Kong
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Wooloomooloo Hong Kong

Photo: The Rooftop Guide

"Since our first visit back in 2016, Wooloomooloo has always been a big favorite for us"

- The Rooftop Guide

There are actually two Wooloomooloo's in HK, but it is the one at the Hennessy Building in Wan Chai that offers a magical rooftop with a magical view. Part stylish indoor steakhouse, and part open-air rooftop bar, this is a venue for many occasions.

View

Perched among the skyscrapers in Wan Chai on Hong Kong Island, you’ll get a fantastic view right in the city center. Specially when darkness falls, and all the skyscrapers light up in a colorful spectacle.

Other viewpoints are Happy Valley (the horse racing arena), Victoria Harbor and the skyline of Kowloon and its beautiful surroundings. In other words, there’s nothing to complain about when speaking of the view at Wooloomooloo.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Wooloomooloo, Hong Kong
Photo: https://woo-steakhouse.com/
Drinks

The drink menu at Wooloomooloo is fantastic. There is a great variety of both wines, beers, and cocktails.

This is also heaven for those who like a tasty Gin & Tonic. You can choose several different G&T cocktails up here. And also, some different Prosecco drinks and Martinis.

Of course, there’s also classic cocktails like Negroni, Aperol Spritz etc. All made to perfection.

As the restaurant serves steaks, you’ll find many great wines at Wooloomooloo. Especially red wines. Both on glass and bottle.

Full drink menu can be found here.

Food

Except the fantastic view, it’s the food that makes Wooloomooloo stand out among all rooftop bars in Hong Kong. They are especially famous for the steaks up here. But you can also find premium seafood, salads, oystersand some delicious desserts.

If you ask us, you must try the steaks accompanied by a fine bottle of red wine. You can find the full food menu here.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Wooloomooloo, Hong Kong
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Atmosphere

The best time to visit Wooloomooloo would be just before sunset. The vibe is a little calmer around this time and it’s easier to get a good seat.

As the hour gets later, the vibe starts to pick up. At certain occasions there’s also live DJs up here that helps creating a nice party atmosphere.

During lunch hours the roof terrace is closed, but you can still enjoy the inside restaurant one floor down.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Wooloomooloo, Hong Kong
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Service

As with many other Asian rooftop bars, the service is very good at Wooloomooloo. Super friendly and always with a smile.

In the restaurant they have sommeliers to help you out with wine pairing for the food and in the rooftop bar you can ask for specific cocktails and other creations.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Wooloomooloo, Hong Kong
Photo: https://woo-steakhouse.com/
Interior

The interior on the rooftop terrace is quite simple but still elegant. Bar stoles and tables by the edge of the terrace are the seats that gives you the best view. There are also some lounge sofas available. These seats are recommended to book in advance.

In the restaurant the décor is modern and luxurious. It feels like a fine dining restaurant in there.

Sunset

If you want the ultimate experience at Wooloomooloo, you should plan your visit during sunset. When the sun starts to set and the skyscrapers lights up, it’s hard to find a better rooftop view in Hong Kong. It’s something you must see live to really get the feel of how beautiful it is.

You wont see the actual sunset from Wooloomooloo, but the light over the city I what makes it so special.

Watch: Wooloomooloo
WOOLOOMOOLOO

The Hennessy, 256 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

More info

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Flair at the Ritz Carlton, Shanghai
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Flair at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai

Photo: The Rooftop Guide

"You’ll be amazed by the mightiest city view in the whole world when stepping out on the roof terrace at Flair Rooftop"

- The Rooftop Guide

The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong holds several restaurants and bars, but it is the 58th floor Flair Rooftop that is the real flagship. Not only the highest rooftop bar in Shanghai, but in all of China.

View

Where to start...The view at Flair Rooftop is something out of this world! If you like grand city views, this is probably the best rooftop bar in the whole world. It almost feels unreal when you gasp out over the Huangpu River, Pearl Tower and the Shanghai skyline.

The fact that the rooftop is perched on the 58th floor makes you feel like you’re on top of the world. We can never get tired of a view like this. Amazing even if it’s the 10th time you visit the rooftop.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Flair at the Ritz Carlton, Shanghai
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Drinks

You can find most classic cocktails on the bar menu, but also some nice signature ones as well. The same goes with beer and wine, plus a good selection of mocktails (alcohol free).

As the rooftop serves tapas-style staples from Asia, the food goes very well with cocktails or other drinks. We drank cocktails throughout our whole dinner, and it was a perfect match with the sushi and other sharing plates.

Food

As mentioned, Flair Rooftop serves tapas-style staples from Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, Thailand and China. The food is superb and very well made.

For us, this is the perfect rooftop food when visiting a rooftop bar during the evening or later hours. Extra plus for the testy skewers and sushi plates.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Flair at the Ritz Carlton, Shanghai
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Atmosphere

If you like a livelier and more party friendly setting, you should book your table or visit the rooftop during the later hours. At this time, you can expect live DJs and a louder volume.

If you look for a calmer and more sophisticated experience, make sure to come here when the rooftop opens at 5:30pm. This way you’ll also get some sunlight and a seat for the spectacular sunset. More about that later.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Flair at the Ritz Carlton, Shanghai
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Service

Flair is located at the super luxurious hotel Ritz-Carlton Pudong Shanghai, so expect superb service at the rooftop bar as well. It’s both friendly, attentive and with a genuine politeness.

Drinks can be ordered from the bar while food orders is taken by the table from one of many waiters working here.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Flair at the Ritz Carlton, Shanghai
Photo: www.ritzcarlton.com/
Interior

Simple, clean and minimalistic are three words that describes the décor at Flair Rooftop. Maybe not our favorite way to furnish a rooftop bar. But it still works very good up here.

For the best experience you should book one of the lounge areas. Comfy sofas just by the edge of the terrace.

The terrace is divided in two levels. On the second level you can also find bar tables and bar stoles from where you also get a fantastic view.

Sunset

It’s not easy to time a sunny, clear sky in Shanghai. If you’re lucky to do so, you’ll be in for a fantastic experience up here.

The sun sets over the Shanghai skyline just in front of the terrace which makes Flair Rooftop the best spot in Shanghai to see the sunset from. Not bad for being located in a city with over 25 million inhabitants.

Make sure to have enough batterie in your camera when this exceptional moment arrives.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Flair at the Ritz Carlton, Shanghai
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Watch: Flair
FLAIR

The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, Shanghai IFC, 8 Century Avenue, Shanghai

More info

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - High Note SkyBar, Budapest
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High Note SkyBar Budapest

Photo: https://highnoteskybar.hu/

"The location on top of one of the better hotel’s in the world does not hurt, but High Note SkyBar delivers enough in terms of cocktails, views and setting to stand very well on its own."

- The Rooftop Guide

High Note SkyBar is the rooftop of the fantastic, music inspired and world-renowned Aria Hotel Budapest, located right next to the famous St. Stephen's Basilica. Open daily from lunch to midnight for everyone, it is a fantastic destination in summer, but also offers some very cosy winter-vibes.

View

Spacious and set over several levels, High Note offers amazing and panoramic views over the Budapest skyline and the surrounding hills. The majestic St. Stephen's Basilica is so close it almost feels like you can reach out and touch it.

The views are not only outbound, you can also look inside the hotel courtyard and down through the glass-roofed Music Garden.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - High Note SkyBar, Budapest
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Drinks

High Note SkyBar take their drinks, and especially their cocktails, very seriously. With a menu changing every season, the cocktails are unique, and real pieces of art.

Taking inspiration from different themes, like the world of movies or ‘Legends & Myths’, they are equally tasty and beautiful in presentation. We dare to guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Apart from the cocktails, the drink menu also include a fine selection of wine, sparkling and premium spirits, served in both glass and by the bottle.

Food

During evenings, the food menu at High Note consist of bar bites and desserts, created by a chef and a pastry chef to work in symbios with the cocktails.

Just as with the drinks, the food is well crafted and beautiful in presentation. Perfect to share as an evening nibble, but more as a complement to drinks than a full dinner.

More filling dishes are served between 12-3pm, when High Note works a great spot for a long, relaxing and (hopefully) sunny rooftop lunch.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - High Note SkyBar, Budapest
Photo: https://highnoteskybar.hu/
Atmosphere

Stylish venue at a stylish location, and High Note comes with a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe. Daytime visits are extra relaxing, when you most likely will not have a problem finding a lounge spot and enjoy some drinks and food in the sunshine.

Towards sunset and during the night, the terrace is more crowded, and reservations are recommended. Crowded does however not mean overfilled and loud, but instead a vibrant and upscale lounge feel.

Service

Right from stepping out the elevator leading up to High Note, you will be greeted with a professional and friendly service. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to help you with what to choose from the menu.

Don’t find a drink you like? Most likely they will find and create and option that suits you.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - High Note SkyBar, Budapest
Photo: https://highnoteskybar.hu/
Interior

Spacious and open-air during summer, cosy and charming in winter: High Note SkyBar looks great year round.

During the warmer months, it is an urban oasis, where you can settle down in the comfy yellow loungers, surrounded with greenery and the Budapest skyline.

Apart from the main terrace, there are also two panorama towers. Situated a level above ‘the rest’, these come with even better views, and are perfect to reserve for a larger group.

During winter, glass walls enclose the bar lounge, and the terrace is set up with cosy lighting decorations and a cabin.

Sunset

No surprise, the beautiful terrace look extra beautiful around sunset hour. And while watching the sun go down behind Castle Hill and the Buda Castle, you will have some great photo-ops, starring you, Budapest and a fine looking cocktail.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - High Note SkyBar, Budapest
Photo: https://highnoteskybar.hu/
Watch: Crafting cocktails at High Note SkyBar
HIGH NOTE SKYBAR

Aria Hotel, Hercegprímás Utca 5, 1051 Budapest

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10 best rooftop bars worldwide - LH Rooftop, Chicago
7

LH Rooftop Chicago

Photo: https://londonhousechicago.com/

"A vibrant atmosphere amidst the mighty views of the Chicago skyscrapers makes this a one of a kind rooftop"

- The Rooftop Guide

LH Rooftop is a tri-level rooftop bar, located on top of the superb hotel LondonHouse Chicago, set right by the Michigan Avenue Bridge and Chicago River.

View

The flagship of LH Rooftop is the spectacular view! The rooftop is perched right among the skyscrapers with the Chicago River right beneath. It’s a unique city view that will please your eyes for hours.

Just before darkness falls the city starts to light up in a beautiful and colorful spectacle. If you want the best pictures, this is the time to visit LH Rooftop.

Drinks

The drink menu up here is quite small. But nevertheless, with great quality. There are of course some classics to choose from, but the best thing is that you can order some drinks to share. Or how about a big Moscow Mule to just let everyone around the table dig into.

There’s also an afternoon tea menu you can order from during specific days and hours. And of course you can get a beer or a glass of wine as well.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - LH Rooftop, Chicago
Photo: https://londonhousechicago.com/
Food

Classic bar bites is the way to go when speaking of the food at LH Rooftop. You can choose from both cold and warm bites along with some sandwiches and salads. And if you want something bigger you can order classics like burgers, tacos, fish and chips etc.

Something we like is the special brunch menu that’s available on weekends only. Perfect place to start your bar hooping at.

Full menus can be found here.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - LH Rooftop, Chicago
Photo: https://londonhousechicago.com/
Atmosphere

Both during brunch, lunch and evening the vibe at LH Rooftop is lively and super nice. On certain occasions you can also enjoy live bands, DJs and similar, which creates a great atmosphere and holiday like feeling.

We can really recommend booking a table for lunch or brunch here. The vibe during daytime is great. Early evening tends to go more to an afterwork feeling.

Service

The service is good at LH Roogtop. Just like it should be. Not bad, not superb – but still what you can expect from one of the best rooftop bars in USA.

There is a big number of staff working during the hectic hours to assure that everyone gets the service and help that they need. Orders can be made either from the table or at the bar.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - LH Rooftop, Chicago
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Interior

We love the interior and décor at LH Rooftop. You almost feel like stepping out on a roof garden when entering the terrace. Its truly a big city oasis. The walls are green and lush, while there are plants placed out close to all lounge sofas.

Speaking of lounge sofas, you should definitely book the one of these for the ultimate experience. Both comfy and by the edge of the terrace for best possible view.

Sunset

Maybe not the best sunset in Chicago, but if you’re lucky to time the sunset during a sunny day, you’ll get a superb display between the skyscrapers and over the Chicago River. But you need to be fast as the sunset view is only significant during a short period between the skyscrapers.

So get your camera ready or just enjoy watching the yellow sky behind the Chicago skyline.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - LH Rooftop, Chicago
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Watch: LH Rooftop
LH ROOFTOP

85 E Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

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10 best rooftop bars worldwide - SE•STO on Arno, Florence
8

SE•STO on Arno Florence

Photo: The Rooftop Guide

"The magical rooftop lunch at SE•STO on Arno Rooftop Bar is the best in the world!"

- The Rooftop Guide

Located on the banks of river Arno, on top of the five star luxury hotel The Westin Excelsior, SE·STO on Arno is both a cozy rooftop bar and an excellent rooftop restaurant.

View

It’s hard to find a more beautiful city than Florence. And from SE•STO on Arno Rooftop you’ll get a fantastic view over the city, Arno River, the surrounding landscape and the sunset.

The beautiful landscape of Tuscany is truly something special. And with all the historical and famous monuments like the Duomo and churches you can sit here for hours just looking at this unique and amazing view.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - SE•STO on Arno, Florence
Photo: www.sestoonarno.com/
Drinks

Up here it’s more about good wine and bubbles than cocktails and beers. The wine list is extensive and superb. Ask the skilled sommeliers about wine paring or other questions and they happily help out.

But there are of course several great options for those who like a cocktail as well. If we would give one advice, they do make a superb Negroni here.

Food

Along with the view, the food is the flagship of SE•STO on Arno Rooftop Bar. There are several different menus to choose from. Chefs choice, weekend menus etc. Among all the options you can choose from well-made pasta, premium meat, fish and delicious desserts.

Visit the rooftop for a long wine lunch, a business lunch or a romantic dinner during sunset. All occasions are magical here.

Our favorite is the long wine lunch. We’ve been here 4 times for just that occasion, and every visit has been fantastic.

See full food menu here.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - SE•STO on Arno, Florence
Photo: www.sestoonarno.com/
Atmosphere

The atmosphere at SE•STO on Arno is sophisticated with a luxurious touch. This is the place to visit if you like a bit calmer setting.

As mentioned, it suits perfect for a romantic dinner, a lunch in the sun or a business meeting. As the rooftop is located on top of the luxurious hotel Westin Excelsior you can expect the vibe to be quite posh. It’s more a place for dinner than for party.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - SE•STO on Arno, Florence
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Service

The service up here is one of the best we’ve experienced on a rooftop bar / restaurant. You always feel like VIP customer, even if it’s your first visit.

This is something you’ll experience throughout the whole hotel. There are a lot of waiters and sommeliers available, so you always get the help you need.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - SE•STO on Arno, Florence
Photo: www.sestoonarno.com/
Interior

The décor is very classic and luxurious, but also with a homey feeling. Especially on the terrace.

When entering the restaurant, you instantly get a feeling of being in an upscale restaurant. Both the restaurant area and furniture’s go in the same style. All seats here are adapted for dinner guests.

Of course you can visit for some drinks as well, but there are no lounge sofas or bar stools available.

Sunset

If you want to impress your date, you should book a table during sunset hours. It’s amazing! The sun sets over the Arno River with the beautiful landscape of Tuscany as a lovely backdrop.

Perfect for some great pictures or just a memorable moment that you will remember for life.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - SE•STO on Arno, Florence
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
SE•STO ON ARNO

Piazza Ognissanti, 3, The Westin Excelsior, Florence

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10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Social Club Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
9

Social Club Saigon Ho Chi Minh City

Photo: www.hoteldesartssaigon.com/

"Open-air, vibrant and tropical-chic rooftop bar, neighbor with one of the world’s best rooftop infinity pools."

- The Rooftop Guide

Social Club Saigon is found on top of the luxurious Hotel Des Arts Saigon Mgallery Collection, located in District 3 of HCMC. The Social Club holds both a 23rd floor indoor restaurant, and above you find the open-air rooftop bar.

View

24 floors above street level, and open in pretty much all directions, the Social Club Rooftop Bar offers both panoramic and breathtaking views of the Saigon skyline.

Very cool during daytime, glittering and fantastic at night.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Social Club Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Drinks

The rooftop offers an impressive drink menu. Here you find a ‘Social Club Collection’ of very tasty and crafted signature cocktails, along with a large selection of G&T’s.

There is also a wide range of champagne, wine and premium spirits, served either by the glass or in bottle.

Drinks are a bit on the pricey side for being Saigon, but visit during the daily happy hour (5-8pm), when the 2 for 1 will keep your wallet just as happy as your taste buds.

Food

Bar bites, like ‘Mini Black Angus Burger’ and ‘Premium Cold Cuts & Cheese’, are available at the rooftop bar. But for a full dinner, you should head one floor down, to the stylish and upscale Social Club Restaurant.

Here you can indulge in fresh and seasonal cuisine inspired by European favourites. Make sure to grab a window seat to enjoy the food with views.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Social Club Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Photo: www.hoteldesartssaigon.com/
Atmosphere

Open from morning to late at night, Social Club Rooftop comes with a great and casual-chic atmosphere always, but changing a bit depending on when you visit.

Relaxing poolside bar during the day, soft sunset vibes during the early evening, and then a more vibrant lounge setting as darkness kicks in, with resident DJs creating the soundtrack every night.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Social Club Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Service

Set on top of a luxurious hotel in Vietnam, you wouldn’t expect anything other than friendly and professional service. And you would be right to do so.

We received quick and helpful table service, all with smiles. Just what you need, without being anything spectacular.

Interior

Social Club Rooftop really has a beautiful set up. We would call it tropical-chic, and to find that in the heart of such a bustling city as Ho Chi Minh just makes it more special.

Wicker chair bar stools, comfy lounge sofas, lots of wooden details, and of course, the amazing rooftop infinity pool. While the pool is only available to guests staying at the hotel, it does help in creating a fantastic rooftop setting.

Up here you also find the first and only glass suspension bridge hanging high in the air in Ho Chi Minh City, connecting the hotel and Centec Tower right opposite. Something for the daredevils...

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Social Club Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Photo: www.hoteldesartssaigon.com/
Sunset

Sunset hour at Social Club Rooftop does not only mean happy hour deals, but on a clear day, also a grand natural display.

Position yourself at the right spot on the terrace, and you can actually see the sun set into the rooftop infinity pool. The only better option is probably to be in the pool and watch the sun go down behind the skyline.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - Social Club Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Photo: www.hoteldesartssaigon.com/
Watch: Social Club Saigon
SOCIAL CLUB SAIGON

MGallery Saigon, 76-78 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Phường 6, Ho Chi Minh

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10 best rooftop bars worldwide - The Nolen Rooftop, San Diego
10

The Nolen Rooftop San Diego

Photo: http://thenolenrooftop.com/

"Top class cocktails, bites and a smashing sunset: what more do you really need?"

- The Rooftop Guide

The Nolen Rooftop Bar (or just The Nolen) is a modern San Diego venue, located 14 floors up at the Courtyard San Diego in the Gaslamp District. The Nolen is available for nightly visits, and also for a Sunday rooftop brunch.

View

While The Nolen comes with a covering roof and is a bit less open-air than many of the other venues on this list, that does not stop it from offering grand views.

Up here you can peek into Petco Park and indulge in panoramics over the city skyline, all the way to the Coronado Bridge and the water.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - The Nolen Rooftop, San Diego
Photo: http://thenolenrooftop.com/
Drinks

With a ‘dedication to advance the art of the cocktail’, it is no surprise that The Nolen drink menu is something special.

Including crafted and tasty Nolen Classics and Nolen Originals, there is also a barrel-aged cocktail program, using unique blends of hard-to-find spirits, aged in American oak barrels.

We tried several different Gin-creations during our visit, which were both tasty and very refreshing on a sunny afternoon.

If you are not in the ‘cocktail-mood’, there is of course also a selection of beers, bubbles and wine.

Food

Like many rooftops, The Nolen offers a menu of bar bites. But these are really some tasty bar bites!

Perfect to share, there is everything from Tacos and Short Rib Sliders to Charcuterie Boards, but our favourite was the Chili Glazed Meatballs. Being from Sweden, we like to think we know our meatballs, and these were really something special.

For an even larger selection of food, hit up the Sunday rooftop brunch, served between 11am to 2pm.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - The Nolen Rooftop, San Diego
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
Atmosphere

If you google 'lounge atmosphere', The Nolen should show up on the first page. Stylish and trendy, yet laid-back and relaxing, this is a top venue to enjoy some quality time with a group of friends.

Vibrant enough to make you want to stick around for hours, but never turning to loud or crazy.

Service

The service at Nolen is pretty much right on point. Friendly and professional, just like it should be.

The terrace is not huge, and we felt it was no problem at all to get some help and attention when needed. And everything is served right at your table.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - The Nolen Rooftop, San Diego
Photo: http://thenolenrooftop.com/
Interior

The Nolen Rooftop bar really is a beautiful venue. Modern and stylish all around, the terrace comes with over-sized lamps, both surrounding fire-pits and a large fire-pit table, lots of comfy lounge seats and of course, a fine looking bar where the fine looking cocktails are made.

Surrounded by the San Diego skyline, it looks great both in sunlight and later at night, when both the terrace and the city is shining with light.

While the central and large fire-pit table is a great spot for a larger group, we would recommend trying to get one of the lounge spots right by the edge.

Sunset

The golden hour at The Nolen is fantastic, as you get a front-row seat to watching the sun set behing the city skyline and into the ocean.

Apart from a magical display, this is also the time for the Sunset Hour menu, when you can enjoy great prices on food and drinks.

10 best rooftop bars worldwide - The Nolen Rooftop, San Diego
Photo: The Rooftop Guide
THE NOLEN ROOFTOP

453 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

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