0 Followers
Ophelia Lounge NYC
Master Critic Review
Ophelia Lounge NYC
8.5
Set atop the historic Beekman Tower in Turtle Bay, Ophelia is a glass-enclosed rooftop lounge with 360-degree views over the East River and Midtown skyline. Opened in 2018 and recommended by Michelin, it leans into moody, Art Deco cocktails, seasonal décor and a tight menu of shareable plates that justify the premium pricing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ahi Tuna Tartare with Chili Honey, Duck Confit Spring Rolls, Spinach & Artichoke Dip
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Art Deco greenhouse rooftop with 360-degree river and skyline views.
Who should go: Cocktail-focused date nights and dressed-up small groups.
When to visit: Sunset into early evening for views and softer crowds.
What to order: Ahi tuna tartare, duck confit spring rolls, a signature martini.
Insider tip: Ask for a terrace-edge or window table to maximize river and skyline sightlines.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet. Street parking is scarce near Beekman Tower; expect metered spots to be limited. Best option is nearby garages along 1st Ave or 49th St.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—cocktail attire fits in. Jeans are acceptable if polished; sneakers read too casual.
Noise level: Moderate. The glass-enclosed lounge has music and lively chatter, but you can generally hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for lounge seating without a reservation, especially around sunset.
Weekday lunch: N/A — Ophelia is not a lunch venue; early evenings on weekdays typically have minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several small plates like burrata, truffle fries, and seasonal veggie dishes.
Vegan options: Limited — cocktails are fine, but food options are minimal; call ahead for confirmation on seasonal items.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — some small plates can be made gluten-free; staff is accustomed to accommodating requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The skyline views, mood lighting, and refined cocktails create an effortless ‘impressive but not stuffy’ setting for a first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly. Walk-ins are taken at the bar and some lounge sections, but prime tables by the windows almost always require reservations, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. It's a cocktail-centric rooftop lounge with limited food and a nighttime vibe; best suited for adults 21+.
Best For
Better for: Atmospheric cocktails, romantic views, and a polished Art Deco setting that feels more intimate than larger rooftop bars.
Skip if: You want a full dinner experience, expansive entrée selection, or a quiet environment—nearby fine-dining restaurants or hotel lounges may suit you better.