The Empire Hotel Rooftop: Kobe sliders, $16. Tip for the doorman who let you in, $5. Views of Central Park—priceless. Jeffrey Chodorow has taken over the recently remodeled rooftop lounge at Empire Hotel, and unlike the guests-only upper-level Pooldeck, the 8,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor terrace is open to the public. Sip a martini under the red glow of the retro neon sign while nibbling on Chodorow’s dainty delectables like fois gras and raspberry jam on French toast, truffle and caviar deviled eggs, or a classic lobster roll. Divided into three areas (an enclosed penthouse lounge and east and west terraces), the 12th floor haven offers panoramic views of the Upper West Side skyline, Columbus Circle, Central Park, Broadway, and the Hudson River. Relish and repeat. |
