0 Followers
The Roof
Master Critic Review
The Roof
7.6
Perched atop the Whole Foods at Third & 3rd since 2013, The Roof is a casual rooftop bar-restaurant with picnic tables, greenhouse views, and sightlines over the Gowanus Canal. The menu leans into burgers, bar snacks, and pub-style plates paired with local draft beers and wine, making it more of a laid-back hangout than a special-occasion destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sixpoint-glazed ribs, Brooklyn brat, BLT grilled cheese
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 6.6
Consistency: 7.3
Food Quality: 7.7
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: A relaxed rooftop bar-restaurant with canal and greenhouse views above a Gowanus grocery landmark.
Who should go: Groups and friends wanting casual drinks with a rooftop view.
When to visit: Warm-weather afternoons and golden-hour evenings for best atmosphere.
What to order: Sixpoint-glazed ribs, a medium-rare burger, and BLT grilled cheese.
Insider tip: Skip the wait by grabbing groceries or hot-bar items downstairs and enjoy them at a rooftop table alongside a draft beer.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free surface parking is available in the Whole Foods lot downstairs; spots fill during peak grocery hours but turnover is steady. Limited street parking along 3rd Ave.
Dress code: Casual and weather-appropriate—tees, jeans, and light layers are the norm for this open-air setting.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is possible, though wind, music, and groups can raise the volume at peak times.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes on warm, sunny days; minimal wait in cooler months.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait; plenty of seating outside grocery rush hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Decent selection—salads, bar snacks, and a few meat-free sandwiches depending on seasonal menus.
Vegan options: Limited—expect 1–2 adaptable items, mainly salads or sides; confirm dressings and buns.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free options like fries and salads, but no dedicated prep area; cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual, low-pressure dates—open-air views and picnic-table seating keep things relaxed, though it’s not ideal for intimate or refined atmospheres.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's first-come, first-served and usually manageable, especially outside prime weekend evenings or perfect-weather days.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes—outdoor seating and casual food work for families, though high-top tables and open rooftop edges mean it’s best for kids 6+ who can stay seated.
Best For
Better for: Laid-back drinks, casual rooftop hangs, and easy group meetups with no reservation stress.
Skip if: You're seeking upscale dining, quieter conversations, or weatherproof seating—look to indoor or more polished rooftops instead.