The Highlight Room NY

New York, NY · $$

The Highlight Room’s real showstopper is the spectacular view of the city through a glass wall that spans the entire width of the room and folds back to allow access to the outdoor terrace. From there, guests can lift a cocktail to the expansive views — north to the Empire State Building, south to the Freedom Tower. The north and south sides of the room are lined with two-toned leather and velvet banquettes positioned to take advantage of the cityscape views from floor-to-ceiling windows. The bar, set off by wooden arches and antique mirrors, complements the greenery, and elaborate, candelabra-style chandeliers allude to the candles that would illuminate the German garden as evening fell. Layers of premium materials — plaster, brass, velvet upholstery, caramel drapery, terrazzo tiles — add a dose of playful luxury. Although the bar is open to the public, the overall sense is of a swank member’s club, a private Eden commanding the sky above the Lower East Side. Must be 21+.