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The Roof at PUBLIC
Master Critic Review
The Roof at PUBLIC
8.4
Set atop PUBLIC Hotel, The Roof trades long menus for wide-angle downtown views, DJ-driven nights, and a concise list of cocktails and small plates. It’s a polished option for date nights or visiting friends when you want an only-in-NYC skyline backdrop with a bit of Jean-Georges polish in the snacks.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chips and guacamole, Seasonal bar bites, Frosé
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: High-design rooftop with 360-degree views and DJ-led nights.
Who should go: Couples and small groups wanting polished rooftop cocktails.
When to visit: Clear evenings from sunset through late-night DJ sets.
What to order: Chips and guacamole, seasonal bar bites, frosé.
Insider tip: Reserve terrace seating; indoor bar fills quickly on weekends.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; limited street parking on Chrystie and Bowery. Expect difficulty after 6pm—rideshare is strongly recommended.
Dress code: Upscale rooftop attire. Smart casual at minimum; most guests lean dressy (heels, button-downs, tailored layers). Avoid overly casual outfits.
Noise level: Loud during DJ sets; conversation is possible on the terrace but challenging indoors during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for terrace spots without a reservation; bar standing room often available sooner.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—The Roof is primarily an evening/night venue with no lunch service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—snack-style plates like chips, dips, and some seasonal bites are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—typically 1–2 items depending on seasonal menus, mostly snack options.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—several bar bites are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact precautions are minimal.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—especially if you're aiming for a high-impact skyline backdrop. The vibe skews energetic and stylish, so it works best for confident, conversational dates rather than intimate, quiet ones.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—walk-ins can often get terrace standing room or indoor bar space, but prime outdoor seating on weekends almost always requires advance booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—this is a nightlife-leaning rooftop with DJs and a cocktail-focused menu. Teens may be fine earlier in the evening, but it’s not designed for young children.
Best For
Better for: Panoramic downtown views paired with a polished, nightlife-adjacent ambiance—ideal for visitors, date nights, and celebratory evenings.
Skip if: You want a full dinner menu, quiet conversation, or family-friendly seating. Choose alternatives with robust kitchens or calmer atmospheres instead.