Perched 33 stories above Times Square, VOCO Roofbar offers stunning NYC skyline views, creative cocktails, and globally inspired bites.
With Broadway billboards and bright city lights surrounding us, it’s the perfect place to start our theater night. Our next stop? The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Located atop the recently opened voco Times Square–Broadway hotel, VOCO Roofbar sits at 170 West 48th Street. Its Theater District location makes it an easy stop before catching a show. But the views give you a reason to arrive early.
A Wicked billboard catches your attention, while Times Square’s bright lights stare right back at you. You can even catch a peek toward Central Park, adding another recognizable landmark to the cityscape.
Even as New Yorkers, we find that this perspective makes a familiar neighborhood feel exciting again. The 2,700-square-foot space offers a sleek, welcoming atmosphere where guests can settle in and admire the city. Plus, its retractable roof keeps the skyline part of the experience year-round.
The menu focuses on Asian-fusion small plates designed for sharing, with bold, globally inspired flavors. These dishes go beyond typical rooftop bar snacks. Seafood options include sea bass ceviche with avocado and chili, plus ahi tuna with truffle ponzu. You’ll also find grilled prawns with garlic, sesame, and ginger.
Heartier bites include Wagyu souvlaki skewers with jalapeño-yuzu yogurt and mini tacos filled with pulled Black Angus short ribs. Another option is the Wagyu rolls with mushroom duxelles and truffle. Lighter choices include a quinoa salad with wakame and mango, alongside crunchy potatoes with truffle mayo. The tapas-style approach makes it easy to order a few dishes for the table before heading to a show.
VOCO Roofbar food courtesy of Mentis Studio
Of course, the cocktails deserve their own moment. The Golden Hour Spritz combines vodka, yuzu, elderflower, and prosecco. Meanwhile, Broadway Blush features lychee and rosé vermouth. For something different, the Shiso Skyline brings together gin, shiso, and peppermint. The Empire Dragon mixes tequila, dragonfruit, and citrus for a colorful margarita variation. Other options include Tokyo Rooftop Punch with sake and peach liqueur. There’s also the Sumac Sensei Mezcalita, featuring olive oil-infused mezcal and passion fruit.
Not drinking? Zero-proof options include the slightly spicy Lost Dragon and fruit-forward Golden Koi. Both offer something more interesting than your typical mocktail.
VOCO Roofbar is the latest concept from Carnegie Hospitality, led by restaurateur Stathis Antonakopoulos. Originally from Greece, Antonakopoulos began his hospitality journey at his grandfather’s hotel and restaurant when he was just 18. Today, he’s also behind Carnegie Diner & Cafe and Delos Greek Restaurant.
His newest venture brings something different to Midtown, pairing an approachable dining menu with elevated cocktails and panoramic city views. The rooftop accommodates 100 seated guests and up to 200 for standing cocktail events. This makes it suitable for everything from casual drinks to larger celebrations.
VOCO Roofbar courtesy of Mentis Studio
For us, VOCO Roofbar offers a chance to catch up, enjoy a few bites, and take in the skyline. It’s the perfect way to build excitement before heading to The Rocky Horror Picture Show. With Broadway’s lights surrounding the rooftop, the theater experience feels like it starts before we even reach our seats.
While it’s an ideal pre-show destination, the rooftop is just as appealing for sunset cocktails or a night with friends. It’s also a great place to show visitors a different side of Times Square.
Open daily from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., VOCO Roofbar gives locals and visitors another reason to look up. After all, when Broadway is your backdrop, the evening already has a pretty spectacular opening act.
