ZipPicks Awards
Best Rooftop Restaurants in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Trendy Restaurants in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Master Critic Review
Vintage Green Rooftop
8.3
Perched atop the Shelburne Sonesta, Vintage Green Rooftop wraps a retractable-glass atrium and leafy terrace around a menu of sliders, pizzas, and snacks built for sharing. It reads more like a garden lounge than a party deck, with Manhattan views, comfortable seating, and a food program that’s stronger than many hotel rooftops.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pastrami spiced chicken wings, Wild mushroom pizza, Chicken katsu sliders
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Lush, greenhouse-style rooftop terrace with a surprisingly deep small-plates menu.
Who should go: Friends or couples wanting relaxed cocktails with real food.
When to visit: Sunset into evening when the atrium glows and city lights pop.
What to order: Pastrami wings, wild mushroom pizza, chicken katsu sliders.
Insider tip: Book a table near the edge of the terrace for the clearest Empire State Building views.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; limited street parking and nearby paid garages on E 38th–40th St. Easier via rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual — nice jeans are fine, but lean polished for evenings.
Noise level: Moderate — lively but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 min without a reservation during peak sunset hours
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple shareable plates and pizzas work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — a few vegetable small plates can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Some options available, but cross-contact is possible due to shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s intimate without being stiff, with great views and a relaxed lounge feel that keeps conversation easy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weekdays or later evenings, but sunset hours and weekends are tough without booking ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Early evenings are fine for older kids, but it skews adult after dark and isn’t designed as a family destination.
Best For
Better for: Calmer, more garden-like rooftop vibes with genuinely good food versus loud, DJ-driven party rooftops.
Consider Alternatives If: You want high-energy nightlife, dancing, or a packed bottle-service scene.