I was extremely excited to experience Magic Hour Rooftop’s Surf Club pop-up, and was deflated once I heard the event had been moved three weeks later, to the end of July.
However, my wait was completely worth it as everything Magic Hour had to eventually offer for its event was energizing, blissful, and completely invigorating. I felt as if I had been teleported to a summer wonderland.
Surf’s up!
Right upon entering the venue, I was greeted by waitresses greeting guests with a smile, and passing them a custom cocktail concoction they called If You Like Piña Coladas.
Mezcal coladas
Light, airy, and refreshing, and with a slight twist since it was prepared with smoky mezcal, I soon learned the distinctive flavor I was picking up on was in fact due to it being made with Vita Coco coconut water. Impressed, I ventured further, and was astonished to see that the entire rooftop had been completely transformed into an endless summer beach party. Littered with groovy surfboards, flowers, and a backdrop consisting of a Volkswagen hippie summer van marking the perfect photo opportunity, each area was carefully constructed to immerse the guests and give ample things to do.
Ample photo-ops
Several employees circled around with plates full of small bites, and I got the opportunity to try some of the rooftop’s vegetarian options, which were excellent. I tried some cheesy fries, which were wonderfully crispy, spicy, and completely addictive. I also got the chance to sample several other bites; each was wonderfully crafted and had a major twist that set it apart from other variations I had tried. The mozzarella sticks were served with vodka sauce, the pineapple was grilled and soaked in rum, and the watermelon wedges were covered in tajin.
The food and margs were splendid
Each of these were completely delectable, and if I wasn’t sitting in the shadow of the Empire State Building, I would’ve completely believed I was at a family barbecue on the beach.
I picked up another drink (A mango margarita in a cowboy-boot glass) and moved to another area that had been set up for the pop-up. Here, Magic Hour had ingeniously placed a giant carousel with seats, which slowly rotated between views of the city and views of the party.
They have a carousel??
I took a seat and enjoyed several more small bites. Then, I wandered to a maze-like arrangement of fences that contained strange erotic humanoid cats clad in beach clothing. “Warning: Cowgirls Ahead”, a sign proclaimed. Amazing.
In all, I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Magic Hour’s Surf Club summer pop-up.
Now we’re talking!
I was reminded just how amazing summer can be, and having all of my favorite things about the season in one place was simply wonderful. Everything is on theme, the DJ was churning out summer hit after hit, and clearly no expense was spared in keeping the food, drinks, and activities up to notch. If you’re looking for something to do this summer, the Surf Club, at the Magic Hour rooftop located in The Moxy Times Square, may just be calling your name.