Discover the best rooftop bars in East Village for your next event

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Written by Tara Monjazeb - April 15 2024


East Village rooftop bars


The East Village skyline is the gift that keeps giving. Looking towards Midtown, your old tenements and new condos wrestling for space in the foreground of NYC’s iconic glass and steel monoliths. Opposite, just before the wide stretch of East River, you’ll spot the parkland pinned in by FDR Drive and any insane or rich enough person to drive a car in the city. The best place to take all this in, of course, is from a rooftop bar. A coveted NYC bit real estate, the rooftop bar has found an ally in the East Village, and here are some of the best.


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The chalet east village rooftop bar
The chalet east village rooftop bar

1. If Santa went to rooftop bars: Chalet East

East Village, New York

Chalet East (previously The Ready) is a unique all-season rooftop pop-up bar, offering a whimsical winter-themed experience. The décor features hanging snow, birch poles, and red skies, creating numerous photo opportunities including a faux fireplace. Yes, they have gone all in on the winter theme.


Patrons can enjoy seasonal cocktails and desserts like the Frozen Espresso Martini, Frozen Spiked Apple Cider, and Warm Churros with Spiced Hot Chocolate. It operates from Tuesday to Sunday, with specific hours for each day, and also offers a happy hour with $1 tacos and $9 margaritas. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended for this one-of-a-kind rooftop bar experience.



MR. Purple rooftop bar east village
MR. Purple rooftop bar east village

2. A rooftop bar in which you can definitely see the East Village: MR. Purple

East Village, New York

So we are stretching the accepted geographical boundaries of ‘East Village’ with this inclusion, but you know what? It’s our list and there’s nothing you can do about it. Apart from stop reading. Please don’t stop reading – I really need this job.


Mr. Purple, managed by the Gerber Group, is a rooftop bar and restaurant located on the 15th floor of Hotel Indigo in the Lower East Side. The bar offers panoramic views and serves craft cocktails, locally sourced food, cold-pressed juices, and handcrafted coffee from local purveyors. The menu is closely tied to local culinary staples and features small-batch spirits, regional craft beers, and a variety of wines. Signature cocktails we’ve enjoyed here include the GG Manhattan and Old Fashioned, with other craft cocktails carbonated and bottled in-house.



make believe East village bar NYC
make believe East village bar NYC

3. Another almost-East Village rooftop bar: Make Believe

East Village, New York

Perched atop SIXTY LES in the Lower East Side (just across East Huston Street), Make Believe is a rooftop social club designed by Pao Lopez offering breathtaking views of New York City. This rooftop bar is ideal for both daytime meetings and lively evening gatherings under a glittering disco ball.


The cocktail list at Make Believe is largely inspired by Japanese flavors, complementing the high-caliber entertainment that includes global DJs. The atmosphere and musical lineup make it a standout rooftop venue for socializing and enjoying the city's skyline.



Find the perfect rooftop bar near East Village.

Sip and soar at East Village's rooftop bars, where the cocktails come with a side of skyline. Rent a perch where the night is young and the city lights are your party backdrop. Book an event in East Village that reaches new heights of revelry and urban splendor.

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Your guide to hiring a rooftop bar in East Village, New York

The East Village in New York City is renowned for its vibrant energy and diverse entertainment options. If you're planning a special event and want to take it to new heights, hiring a rooftop bar in the East Village can provide a unique and memorable experience. Whether it's a birthday celebration, corporate gathering, or casual get-together, here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Define Your Event Vision:

Start by clearly defining the vision for your event. Consider the type of gathering, the ambiance you want to create, and the number of guests you expect. Whether you're envisioning a sophisticated cocktail party or a laid-back social event, having a clear vision will guide your search for the perfect rooftop bar.

2. Research Rooftop Bars in East Village:

Explore the diverse range of rooftop bars in the East Village by utilizing online platforms, reading reviews, and checking social media profiles. Pay attention to the views, ambiance, and overall atmosphere of each venue to create a shortlist that aligns with your event's vision.

3. Consider the Atmosphere and Views:

The charm of a rooftop event lies in the atmosphere and views. Consider the ambiance you desire – whether it's a trendy, modern vibe or a more relaxed, casual setting. Evaluate the views offered by each rooftop bar, ensuring they complement the overall experience for your guests.

4. Assess Capacity and Space:

Evaluate the capacity and layout of each rooftop bar in relation to your guest count. Ensure there's enough space for comfortable mingling, seating, and any additional elements you plan to incorporate, such as entertainment or a dance floor.

5. Check for Outdoor Amenities:

Rooftop bars often offer unique outdoor amenities. Inquire about features like heating lamps, retractable roofs, or outdoor bars, which can enhance the comfort and experience of your event, especially in varying weather conditions.

6. Review Beverage and Catering Options:

Explore the beverage and catering options available at each rooftop bar. Confirm that the bar can provide the types of drinks and menu options that will complement your event. Some venues may also allow you to customize a menu for a personalized touch.

7. Visit Rooftop Bars in Person:

Schedule visits to the shortlisted rooftop bars to experience the space firsthand. This allows you to assess the views, ambiance, and overall atmosphere. Discuss specific details with the venue staff, inquire about any restrictions, and ensure the rooftop bar can accommodate your event's unique requirements.

8. Inquire About Music and Entertainment:

If you plan to incorporate music or entertainment into your rooftop event, inquire about the venue's policies and capabilities. Some rooftop bars may have restrictions or guidelines regarding sound levels or live performances, so it's essential to clarify these details during the planning process.

9. Understand Booking Terms and Costs:

Before finalizing your decision, understand the booking terms and associated costs. Inquire about minimum spending requirements, deposits, and any additional fees. Clarify the cancellation policy to ensure transparency in the financial aspects of hiring the rooftop bar.

10. Plan Transportation:

Consider the accessibility of the rooftop bar for your guests. Ensure there are convenient transportation options nearby, and communicate this information to your attendees to facilitate easy access to the venue.

By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the process of hiring a rooftop bar in the East Village, ensuring a memorable and elevated experience for you and your guests against the iconic backdrop of the city skyline.

Frequently asked questions

Start by researching rooftop bars in the East Village through online platforms, reading reviews, and checking social media. Pay attention to the views, ambiance, and overall atmosphere to create a shortlist of venues that align with your event's vision.

Yes, it is highly recommended to schedule visits to the shortlisted rooftop bars. This allows you to experience the space firsthand, assess the views and atmosphere, and discuss specific details with the venue staff to ensure it aligns with your event vision.

Inquire about outdoor amenities such as heating lamps, retractable roofs, and outdoor bars. These features can enhance the comfort and experience of your event, especially in varying weather conditions.

Yes, some rooftop bars may have restrictions or guidelines regarding music and entertainment. Inquire about the venue's policies to ensure your planned music or entertainment aligns with their regulations.

It's advisable to book a rooftop bar well in advance, especially if you have a specific date and time in mind or if you're planning an event during peak hours or on weekends. The East Village is a popular destination, and rooftop bars can fill up quickly, so early reservations ensure you secure your preferred venue.

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