Seemor
Refinery RooftopBWorth Trying
63 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018
· American restaurant, Lounge, Wine bar
· 4.4/5 Google (4050 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Energetic Midtown rooftop with Empire State views, crowd-pleasing American bites, strong cocktails, and lively vibes—great for celebrations, but expect noise, time limits, view-seat upsells, and service inconsistency.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Refinery Rooftop delivers solid neighborhood dining anchored by exceptional rooftop views and photogenic ambiance that justify its destination appeal. Crowd-pleasing bar food—mac and cheese, sliders, wings—executes well, though quality varies with occasional execution lapses like underdone proteins or uneven seasoning. Service splits between standout named servers and host-stand friction, preventing grade A territory despite strong bones and lively energy ideal for celebrations and drinks-led evenings.
Restaurant Summary
The scene is lively and view-forward, with that postcard shot of the Empire State Building framed by glass in winter and open air when it is warm. Guests describe upbeat music, packed rooms, and service that can swing from warm and celebratory to curt at the host stand. One diner mused, "We came for the skyline and stayed for the vibe." The cooking leans elevated bar food rather than showy chef theatrics: mac and cheese with add-ons, LaFrieda burgers, flatbreads, wings, and a few global touches like tuna crispy rice and kimchi butter. The culinary approach leans classic-with-twists: familiar American comfort with light contemporary accents, ideal for casual celebrations and drinks-led evenings rather than tasting-menu adventures. Families can make it work earlier in the day with kid-friendly picks like flatbreads, fries, sliders, and the burger. Reviews confirm children seated at earlier hours, though one report noted pushback near mid-afternoon. There is no kids menu, so portion-sharing helps, and time limits may shorten linger time.
At a Glance
- Iconic Empire State Building views and photogenic setting
- Crowd-pleasing bar bites and quick-serve plates
- Standout servers called out by name for great care
- Host stand friction, strict time limits, and seating policies
- View table fees and occasional mismatch between expectation and sightlines
What Sets It Apart
- close_empire_state_view
- covered_winter_rooftop
- high_owner_engagement
What People Love
- That signature skyline angle for photos
- Relaxed, celebratory vibe with music
- Comfort dishes that pair well with cocktails
- Occasional surprise desserts for celebrations
Points of Concern
- Seating and reservation enforcement can feel rigid; time limits apply, especially at peak
- Some guests report rude encounters at host or bar
- View surcharges and seat selection may not match expectations from certain tables
- Review patterns show signs of enthusiasm bias (staff-name praise and promotional tone) though overall authenticity remains acceptable
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$46-$64 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Vegetarians: Kale Salad ($19), Margherita or Truffle Bianca ($21-$23), Veggie Sliders ($20), Guac & Chips ($19)
- Hearty share: Chicken Wings ($20) in Thai or Buffalo; add Fries ($9, truffle +$4)
Perfect For
- Birthday drinks with skyline photos
- Girls night with upbeat music
- Pre-theater cocktails and snacks
- Hotel guests seeking a convenient rooftop moment
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Midtown near Bryant Park and Garment District; heavy office, hotel, and tourist foot traffic.
Safety: Well-traveled, well-lit commercial zone; busy at most hours, typical Midtown safety profile.
Nearby: Steps from Bryant Park, Herald Square, and Empire State Building; hotels and offices drive peak demand.
Garment DistrictThe Garment District is historically known as the center of New York's fashion manufacturing and design industry. Today, it hosts a mix of showrooms, design studios, and trendy eateries catering to professionals and visitors alike. The dining scene includes casual lunch spots, mid-range restaurants, and some upscale options, reflecting the area's fast-paced work environment and creative vibe.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–23:00
Tuesday11:30–00:00
Wednesday11:30–00:00
Thursday11:30–01:00
Friday11:30–01:00
Saturday10:30–02:00
Sunday10:30–23:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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