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Upstairs at The Kimberly
Master Critic Review
Upstairs at The Kimberly
8.3
Perched atop The Kimberly Hotel, Upstairs is a glass-wrapped rooftop lounge serving upscale American small plates and brunch classics with clear Chrysler Building views. Guests come as much for the retractable-roof setting and ivy-draped design as for cocktails and comfort-driven dishes, making it a polished Midtown East choice for dates, drinks, and brunch with a view.
Must-Try Dishes:
Norwegian Eggs Benedict (smoked salmon, hollandaise, English muffin), Prosciutto Pesto Flatbread, Truffle Mac and Cheese
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: An all-season rooftop garden lounge with Chrysler Building views and polished small-plates brunch and dinner service.
Who should go: Couples and groups seeking stylish rooftop drinks and bites
When to visit: Sunset into evening for skyline views and lively energy
What to order: Norwegian Eggs Benedict, Prosciutto Pesto Flatbread, Truffle Mac and Cheese
Insider tip: Reserve a table near the edge of the retractable roof for the best Chrysler Building sightlines without wind exposure.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated valet; nearby garages on 50th–51st St typically run $35–$55. Street parking is limited and tight after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished lean—elevated denim is fine, but most guests opt for dressy tops, cocktail attire, or chic layers suited for a rooftop lounge.
Noise level: Moderate—music-forward but still workable for date-night conversation, especially at earlier seatings.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for walk-ins; reservations strongly recommended as prime-view tables fill early.
Weekday lunch: Light crowd; typically seated immediately or within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: solid selection of vegetarian small plates and brunch dishes, including flatbreads, salads, and egg-based options.
Vegan options: limited—expect 1–2 suitable items; modifications may be possible but not guaranteed.
Gluten-free options: several adaptable dishes; no dedicated gluten-free kitchen, but staff can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, skyline views, and the retractable-roof setting create a romantic atmosphere without being overly formal. Early evening offers the best balance of ambiance and conversation comfort.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, but the quality of the table varies—walk-ins may be seated at interior lounge spots while edge or view tables are typically reserved. Arrive early or aim for weekday evenings for better chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—it's designed as an adult-leaning cocktail and brunch rooftop. Older teens are fine during daytime brunch, but evenings skew lounge-like and not ideal for young children.
Best For
Better for: Polished, weather-proof rooftop dining with direct Chrysler Building views and a more refined ambiance than many Midtown rooftops.
Skip if: You want a high-energy party rooftop, budget-friendly plates, or extensive vegan/strict dietary accommodations.