Lifestyle Mirror

Celebrate summer and enjoy the view from the roof of these six alfresco metropolitan bars. —Sasha Levine (@sashalevine)

Jones
San Francisco, California
In the heart of San Francisco’s Tenderloin sits Jones, a tree-laden, roof deck haven ideal for those looking for a craft cocktail paired with reprieve. Attracting clientele from the Mission to the Marina, there’s nothing not to love about a full menu, fire pits, and outdoor seating all year round. Order the oysters and the Rear Window with vodka and cucumber for a match made in heaven.

The Ides at the Wythe Hotel
Brooklyn, New York
Fresh to the outdoor drinking market, The Ides on the sixth floor of the Wythe Hotel might already be the most coveted seat at New York’s grand selection of rooftop bars. Located on the east side of Williamsburg with unparalleled views of Manhattan, this little number is poised to turn the expression “bridge and tunnel” on its head. If you can find a seat, order a drink with any number of locally-distilled spirits.

Biergarten at the Standard
Los Angeles, California
Haute sausages and authentic brews are nothing new to bar culture, but when you take the Biergarten at the Standard, it’s another story. Boasting a dynamic tag team of Hotelier André Balazs and Austrian chef Kurt Gutenbrunner, not only do you get one-of-a-kind panoramic views of Downtown Los Angeles, but you also get gourmet grub and waitresses with printed lederhosen T-shirts to boot. Try a currywurst with a Bitburger Premium Pils for the full effect.

Market
Chicago, Illinois
For a posh experience in the city second to none, Chicago’s Market combines the elegance of long, low wood booths and the vigor of a nightclub—including a fully stocked DJ booth. And, if you happen to get sick of the roof with its fresh air and views of the city skyline, there’s always the patio beer garden, the sports bar, or the first-floor dining room to check out on your way out into the summer night.

The Boundary
London, England
Perched on the roof of a converted Victorian warehouse in East London sits The Boundary, a 48-seat restaurant, designer garden, and open-air bar. Atop wicker chairs and surrounded by city skyline, patrons can enjoy jugs of sangria and the scent of cigars—there’s a humidor if you’ve forgotten your Cuban at home.

P.O.V
Washington, D.C.
Though it’s nothing new to D.C., P.O.V on the roof of the W Hotel may be the best way to sip a seasonal cocktail and get a taste of the city, all in one take. With the White House next-door and the Washington Monument near by, this sceney alfresco lounge comes with a slice of American history in its much buzzed about views. Though the menu changes often, try a crowd favorite—the Luchador Rosa—before pulling out the binoculars.