Spoon University Logo
IMG 6300
IMG 6300
Lifestyle

10 Rooftop Restaurants in America With the Best Views

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at Chapel Hill chapter.

We all love dinner with a view, and there are a handful of restaurants whose specialties and claims to fame are giving customers just that. They’re known for their delectable food and atmospheres complete with views of sunsets, skylines, and twinkling city lights. Whether it’s date night or a family celebration, you’re bound to have a seriously amazing rooftop experience at one of these restaurants that have been top-rated by customers and travel websites.

1. Above Sixty

Rooftop restaurants

Photo courtesy of @pamhetlinger on Instagram

At Above Sixty in Beverly Hills, CA, you can enjoy their Latin-inspired small plates, full meals, or specialty cocktails from the rooftop terrace that has a 360° view of LA’s skyline.

2. Departure

Rooftop restaurants

Photo courtesy of @departurepdx on Instagram

In Portland, OR, you can enjoy a stunning view that overlooks the city, mountains, and river, while enjoying their critically-acclaimed Asian-inspired cuisine. Definitely check out the dim sum portion of their menu.

3. Soda Bar

Rooftop restaurants

Photo courtesy of @nylohotels on Instagram

Relax above the city of Dallas, TX, and enjoy a cocktail next to the rooftop infinity pool or indulge in some light cuisine from their casual grill. Either way, you’ll be blown away by the spectacular views.

4. The View

Rooftop restaurants

Photo courtesy of @desolatebarbie on Instagram

This iconic lounge dishes out some fantastic small plates like Asian BBQ Chicken Lollipop Wings and Focaccia Bruschetta, while also dishing out beautiful panoramic views of San Francisco, CA.

5. Juvia

Rooftop restaurants

Photo courtesy of @wanderchic on Instagram

Juvia’s rooftop restaurant is one of the most popular spots in Miami, FL, because of its revered ambiance, great views, and lush garden. Juvia serves cuisine that features both French and Japanese fare, like tuna poke and roasted chicken vadouvan.

6. Frolik

Rooftop restaurants

Photo courtesy of @frolikseattle on Instagram

This renowned rooftop lounge in Seattle, WA, has created a modern and chic space that overlooks the city and its sparkling lights. Frolik serves simple dishes with bold flavors like Pork Belly BLTs and Seared Salmon with mint and peas. They also have a series of rooftop concerts to enjoy while you dine and relax.

7. Stars Rooftop & Grill Room

Rooftop restaurants

Photo courtesy of @starsrestaurant on Instagram

In Charleston, SC, you can dig in to traditional southern fare while relaxing on the rooftop that overlooks Charleston’s historic district and seven historic church steeples. You’ll enjoy a clear view of the starry night sky after sunset, hence the name. Share Flounder Beignets with your friends or order your own Crispy Duck Leg Cassoulet with house-made andouille sausage.

8. POV

Rooftop restaurants

Photo courtesy of @thewshlobbyist on Instagram

One of the most iconic rooftop restaurants in Washington, D.C., POV has breathtaking views of D.C.’s monuments, including an amazing view of the White House. Join them for brunch or dinner, and enjoy a glass of wine from their extensive selection.

9. Penthouse 808

Rooftop restaurants

Photo courtesy of @penthouse808lic on Instagram

At this Asian Pacific Bistro in Long Island City, NY you’ll enjoy dishes like Hawaiian Skirt Steak and Seaweed Ginger Salad while gazing at Manhattan’s skyline and the Queensboro Bridge.

10. The J. Parker

Rooftop restaurants

Photo courtesy of @jparkerchicago on Instagram

This exquisite rooftop bar has unobstructed views of Lake Michigan, Lincoln Park, and the Chicago skyline. Sit by the fireside lounge and sip on on of their unique cocktails or graze on one of their small plates like the hand-cut fries with malt vinegar aioli.

Cara Hutto

Chapel Hill '18

Cara is an advertising major who will graduate from the University of North Carolina in 2018. She is passionate about story-telling and has an immense love for anything related to food. She would happily eat only burgers and doughnuts for the rest of her life.