Fancy some lovely cocktails and beers while soaking in some of the best sights from around the world? From Mumbai to London and from New York to Hong Kong, here are some recommendations on the best views from around the world, and with delicious drinks menus to match!
1. Mondrian, London
The Mondrian is still new to London’s skyscraper scene, but it’s as beautiful inside as the view outside. The Rumpus Room, the main bar, sits inside a glass box atop the hotel with an incredible view of the Thames from the Southbank. Slip in for a cocktail whilst you’re exploring this side of the river!
2. Coogee Pavilion, Sydney
Typically The Glenmore is seen as the ‘go-to’ rooftop bar in Sydney, but when the city gets too hot the place to be is Coogee Pavilion. This bar sits on the headland of Coogee Beach, the smaller beach just below Bondi, and it comes with a huge choice of fresh cocktails. They cold press their juice in advance, ready to make delicious drink combinations later on. The Pineapple and Rosemary spritz tastes just like sunshine.
3. Berry Park, New York
Whilst Manhattan is full of bars serving Grey Goose and Champagne, Brooklyn offers something a little bit edgier. Berry Park has phenomenal views of the city, an industrial interior and an affordable (but delicious) boozy brunch menu on the weekends.
4. Luna Bar, Kuala Lumpur
A rooftop bar is good, but a rooftop bar with a pool is better. Luna Bar has 360 degree views of the city, as well as it’s own signature cocktail – the Luna, made of Cointreau, rum and Curacao. Don’t expect a ‘quiet one’ from this place, especially if you visit during a pool party.
5. Naked in the Sky, Melbourne
Naked for Satan is a city favourite in Melbourne, and Naked in the Sky is an extension of the former. Expect tasty little tapas dishes to start with, and finish with some of their in-house infused vodkas. They have everything from chilli and cherry, to opium and rose. These make it worth the trip alone, but the view is the cherry on top.
6. The Standard, Downtown L.A.
The Standard is everything you would expect a rooftop bar in L.A. to be, with resident DJs, waterbed pods and a pool overlooking the glittering city lights. If you find yourself hungering for more than just the view and cocktails, head to the Biergarten downstairs for traditional German bratwurst and beers.
7. The Sundeck, Queenstown
This rooftop lounge is a favourite with ski bunnies in winter and adventurers in summer, with an epic vista of Lake Wakatipu. The chimeneas keep you toasty during the winter months and the excellent selection of local beers will cool you down during the summer!
8. Sevva, Hong Kong
Whilst the majority of these bars are praised for their cocktail menu, Sevva is known for its decadent dining menu too. The food is inspired by Indian cuisine, and they serve a cracking brunch too. Book in for a breakfast meeting to watch the sunrise!
9. Sky Bar, Bangkok
You may have already heard of Sky Bar as it’s been touted by many as ‘the’ rooftop bar to go to in Bangkok, as well as having a guest appearance in The Hangover. Drinks cost between 300 and 600 baht ($10-$20), which is reasonable considering the epic views.
10. Aer, Mumbai
If you hop into the lift at the Four Seasons Mumbai, it’ll take you up to a little haven in the clouds above the heat of the streets. The open air bar serves cocktails and food till late, which makes it the perfect place to appreciate this city from above.
Credit – Skyscanner