Where to Go for Beautiful Views of Lincoln Square

Sweeping views of Lincoln Square are not as hard to come by as you might think! Whether you’re going out for a meal, a drink, or a show, here are just a few places in our neighborhood where you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of Columbus Circle, Central Park, Lincoln Center, and more.

The restaurants at The Shops at Columbus Circle (10 Columbus Circle) have spectacular views of Columbus Circle and Central Park. On the fourth floor, Porter House Bar and Grill offers a menu of seasonally-inspired American classics, expertly crafted cocktails, and a world class wine list—all overlooking Columbus Circle and Central Park. You can see similarly beautiful views from Per Se, which recently re-opened after its dining rooms, salon, and kitchen underwent a transformation. The restaurant’s chef, Thomas Keller, holds multiple 3-star ratings from the Michelin Guide, and the restaurant offers a daily nine-course tasting menu. For a bit less privacy and to hear some tunes, Dizzy’s Club offers jazz performances, drinks, and dinner with a panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline. Open daily, the intimate venue showcases world-class musicians and a delicious seasonal menu.

The Museum of Art & Design's top floor is home to Robert (2 Columbus Circle)—a modern American restaurant lined with windows. Whether visiting for brunch, lunch, dinner, or the live music, the restaurant provides an incredible view up Broadway and is the perfect place to see our malls and the Lincoln Square skyline. Just across the circle, you can find another great vantage point of Lincoln Square from the Mandarin Oriental's MO Lounge (80 Columbus Circle) on the 35th floor. The lounge provides all day dining, which makes it one of the few spots to have breakfast with a view (as early as 7:00am). 

Further north in Lincoln Square, The Empire Rooftop (44 West 63rd Street) offers both outdoor (weather permitting) and indoor seating on the 12th floor of the Empire Hotel. The cocktail lounge serves light fare and appetizers, as well as brunch. Across the street, The Grand Tier Restaurant (30 Lincoln Center Plaza), located within the Metropolitan Opera House, offers fabulous views of the Lincoln Center campus, as well as the elegant Opera House, featuring spectacular chandeliers and original masterpieces by Marc Chagall. You can dine pre-performance or during intermission at The Grand Tier Bar.

Lincoln Square may be known for its eateries and cultural institutions, but at these elevated restaurants, plan to come for the food and stay for the views!

Photo Credit: Porter House Bar and Grill