10 Scenic-Hilltop Restaurants In New York That Serve Food (And The View)

New York’s dining scene offers more than just world-class cuisine. It delivers unforgettable views too. Scattered across the Empire State are amazing restaurants perched on hills and skyscrapers that combine delicious food with breathtaking panoramas.
From Manhattan’s towering buildings to upstate’s rolling countryside, these elevated eateries transform ordinary meals into true visual feasts.
1. Tavern on the Green: Central Park’s Hidden Gem

Nestled within Central Park’s lush landscape, Tavern on the Green feels like stepping into a fairytale. Crystal chandeliers twinkle above while floor-to-ceiling windows frame the park’s majestic trees and rolling lawns.
The outdoor terrace, adorned with twinkling lights, creates pure magic after dark. Savor their famous rack of lamb or cedar-planked salmon while watching horse-drawn carriages clip-clop past.
This landmark has charmed New Yorkers and visitors alike since 1934.
2. Rainbow Room: Midtown’s Crown Jewel

Perched 65 floors above the bustling streets, the Rainbow Room reigns as Rockefeller Center’s dazzling treasure. The elegant Art Deco interior frames floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase Manhattan’s glittering skyline in all directions.
Classic American cuisine gets a sophisticated upgrade here, with specialties like butter-poached lobster and dry-aged steaks.
When the sunset paints the city gold, you’ll understand why this historic spot has been impressing diners since 1934.
3. The View Restaurant: Times Square’s Rotating Marvel

Spin slowly above the city that never sleeps at NYC’s only revolving restaurant! Perched on the 48th floor of the Marriott Marquis, The View completes a full rotation every hour, serving up 360-degree Manhattan panoramas alongside your meal.
I celebrated my 30th birthday here last year, watching the sunset transform into a sea of twinkling lights while enjoying their famous seafood tower.
The prime steaks and decadent desserts match the spectacular scenery, making this Times Square treasure truly unforgettable.
4. Saga: Financial District’s Michelin-Starred Heights

Sixty-three floors above Manhattan’s Financial District, Saga presents a dining experience worthy of its lofty perch. This two-Michelin-starred wonder offers wraparound terraces where New York Harbor and the Brooklyn Bridge spread out like a living postcard.
Chef James Kent’s tasting menu unfolds like a culinary journey, with seasonal ingredients transformed into artistic masterpieces.
The intimate dining room, with just 16 tables, ensures everyone enjoys both the exceptional cuisine and the jaw-dropping views from this Art Deco skyscraper.
5. Crown Shy & OverStory: FiDi’s Towering Duo

Two exceptional experiences await at 70 Pine Street. Start with dinner at ground-floor Crown Shy, where Chef James Kent’s Michelin-starred creations like grilled citrus-marinated chicken and addictive cheese bread have earned cult status.
Then ascend to OverStory, the tower’s spectacular cocktail lounge, where master mixologists craft drinks as impressive as the 360-degree views.
My cousin works nearby and swears nothing beats unwinding here after work, watching the sunset paint Lower Manhattan in golden hues while sipping their signature Pine Old Fashioned.
6. Hill Top Inn: Elmira’s Mark Twain Inspiration

Perched dramatically above the Chemung Valley, this historic 1933 inn serves up spectacular views that once inspired Mark Twain himself. The panoramic windows frame rolling hills and valley vistas that change dramatically with the seasons.
Classic American cuisine shines with regional touches – try the apple-brined pork chops or the famous Hill Top prime rib.
The outdoor deck offers the ultimate sunset dining experience, where you can toast with local Finger Lakes wines while watching the valley below transition from golden afternoon to twinkling evening.
7. Blue Hill at Stone Barns: Farm-to-Table Excellence

Nestled atop the rolling hills of a former Rockefeller estate, this culinary sanctuary redefines farm-to-table dining. The restaurant occupies a converted stone barn surrounded by the working farm that supplies its kitchen.
Chef Dan Barber’s multi-course seasonal tasting menu features ingredients harvested just hours before serving. I visited during tomato season last summer and still dream about the heirloom tomato tasting that showcased six varieties grown mere steps from our table.
The pastoral Westchester views through massive windows complement the pure, honest flavors on every plate.
8. Hilltop Restaurant & Bar: Lockport’s Local Favorite

Towering above Lockport near Buffalo, this unpretentious gem combines hearty tavern fare with surprisingly spectacular views. The spacious outdoor deck provides front-row seats to stunning sunsets over the Niagara County countryside.
Comfort classics get creative twists here – don’t miss the beer-battered fish fry or their legendary stuffed peppers. The friendly staff treats everyone like regulars, creating a warm community vibe.
On summer evenings, the patio buzzes with locals enjoying craft beers and live music under the stars.
9. Panorama Room: Roosevelt Island’s Hidden Treasure

Floating above Roosevelt Island on the 18th floor of the Graduate Hotel, this stylish newcomer delivers knockout views of Manhattan’s eastern skyline. The retro-futuristic décor creates a playful backdrop for the floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the Queensboro Bridge and midtown’s architectural icons.
The concise menu punches above its weight with standouts like steak tartare and truffle fries. Cocktails steal the show with creative concoctions named after local landmarks.
As darkness falls, the twinkling city lights create a dazzling display that pairs perfectly with their signature Roosevelt Island Iced Tea.
10. Ocean Prime: Midtown’s Sophisticated Sanctuary

While technically not perched on a natural hilltop, Ocean Prime’s strategic position in a Midtown high-rise creates the illusion of dining among the clouds. Soaring windows frame dramatic views of bustling streets and iconic skyscrapers from this refined sanctuary.
The upscale steakhouse and seafood menu delivers consistently excellent dishes – the Chilean sea bass with champagne truffle sauce is transcendent.
The sophisticated space, with its warm woods and amber lighting, strikes the perfect balance between special occasion worthy and comfortable elegance.