2023’s Best Cities for Rooftop Dining

What are three key considerations before dining out at a rooftop establishment?

1. Check the weather. There’s nothing worse than planning on dining al fresco and the forecast calls for rain. Most restaurants will pay attention to this, but if you booked your reservation in advance, be sure to check the forecast in the days leading up to your reservation.

2. Personal preferences for everyone in the party — not everyone likes dining outdoors. While rooftops have the advantage of not having to eat next to car exhaust and random pedestrians, outdoor dining isn’t for everyone.

3. Time of day you’re dining out on a rooftop. This will set the mood for your meal as well as what you’re going to wear. Rooftop brunch with friends vs. date night with a significant other will take two different approaches and vibes. During the day, think about skin protection from the sun, and at night, bring a light jacket or wrap.

How different, if at all, are menu prices at rooftop restaurants versus non-rooftop establishments? What explains the price differences?

Menu prices between rooftop and non-rooftop establishments serving the same quality and caliber of cuisine tend to not differ in price significantly. Most rooftop restaurants have indoor dining, and the rooftop gives them the space to expand the number of customers they can serve.

What, if any, rooftop dining etiquette tips should patrons be aware of?

• Remember, just because you’re outside, you are still in a restaurant. The big etiquette no-no is smoking and/or vaping.

• Additionally, some restaurants put time limits on tables so that they can serve as many guests as possible.

What are the three biggest challenges to starting or running a rooftop restaurant?

Logistics can be a challenge for rooftop restaurants if the kitchen is on the main floor and the rooftop is several stories up. You always want to make sure guests get the food at the right temperature and in the right amount of time.

How can local governments encourage developments featuring rooftop establishments in their city?

Green spaces on roofs are good for the environment. They can help:

• Lower heating and cooling costs.
• Encourage more fresh herbs and vegetables to be grown on-site.
• Transform an unused space into something beautiful.

Supporting grants from local governments can help defer some of the initial costs of transforming roofs into beautiful dining opportunities. Plus, increased revenue from taxes brings more opportunities for the city.

What are three key considerations before dining out at a rooftop establishment?

The obvious one is the weather: if it’s too hot, too cold, muggy, etc. the entire experience may be ruined, which could potentially affect patrons’ overall opinion of the venue. Think about the purpose of the outing: is it business, pleasure, family-oriented? You want to ensure the ambiance of the venue matches the purpose of the visit. Lastly, you will want to consider the size of your group. Rooftop bars are sometimes strapped for space. If you have a large group, it would be beneficial to call ahead to make sure the venue can accommodate your group if it is a large size.

How different, if at all, are menu prices at rooftop restaurants versus non-rooftop establishments? What explains the price differences?

Traditionally, rooftop bars and restaurants can have slightly higher prices than non-rooftop establishments. The price difference can be explained simply by the ambiance of the venue. Rooftop bars are typically “swanky” venues for special occasions. With these traits come higher prices.

What, if any, rooftop dining etiquette tips should patrons be aware of?

Be aware of your surroundings. Read the room. If the venue is rowdy or has live music, feel free to let loose a little bit. If the venue is more romantic and subdued, match that energy. You don’t want to rush in like a bull in a china shop and ruin everyone’s evening.

What are the three biggest challenges to starting or running a rooftop restaurant?

Rooftop venues can be expensive to open. You have to prepare for all types of weather conditions and be prepared for your business to be greatly affected by them. You have to account for significant fluctuation of revenue in your business plan. If you approach it with the thought you will not be more greatly affected by seasonal changes than non-rooftop venues, you will not succeed.

How can local governments encourage developments featuring rooftop establishments in their city?

Provide stipends or government assistance for business owners who seek to open up a rooftop venue in their community! Rooftop venues are destination venues. People travel specifically to visit them. This increases economic growth and tourism to the area and should be supported!