Some moments just hit different. Like when you find the perfect spot, with the perfect drink, and a view that makes you stop and stare. It’s a fact: a great drink somehow tastes even better when you’re looking at something incredible. Whether it’s a city skyline at sunset or a calm ocean stretching to the horizon, the right view can turn a simple drink into a core memory.
We’ve found some of the most amazing places around the world where the views are just as important as the drinks. These spots offer a full sensory experience you won’t forget. Get ready to add these locations to your travel list and see for yourself.
Asiate – New York City, USA
High above the chaos of Manhattan, Asiate offers a peaceful escape with one of the city's most breathtaking views. Located on the 35th floor of the Mandarin Oriental, this restaurant and lounge overlooks Central Park and the iconic skyline. Floor-to-ceiling windows mean every seat has a front-row view of the city.
- What Makes the View Special: You get to see the full expanse of Central Park, a massive rectangle of green surrounded by a forest of skyscrapers. It’s a perspective that makes you appreciate the scale and energy of New York. The view is stunning day or night, but sunset is when it truly shines, as the city lights begin to sparkle.
- What to Drink: Asiate is known for its extensive wine list and expertly crafted cocktails. Try one of their signature creations that often feature subtle Asian-inspired flavors. A crisp glass of champagne or a classic Manhattan feels right at home here as you watch the city below.
The Grotto – Krabi, Thailand
Tucked away on Phranang Beach, The Grotto is a restaurant and bar set inside a natural limestone cave. You can sip your drink with your toes in the sand while looking out at the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea. The setting feels like something out of a movie.
- What Makes the View Special: The cave itself provides a unique frame for the stunning beach scenery. You look out past dramatic limestone karsts rising from the turquoise water. At sunset, the sky explodes with color, and long-tail boats bob gently in the bay. It’s a tropical paradise that feels both adventurous and completely relaxed.
- What to Drink: This spot is perfect for tropical cocktails. Think fresh fruit juices, rum, and creative garnishes. Order a classic Mai Tai or a coconut-based drink to match the vibe. A cold, local Chang beer also tastes incredible after a day of swimming and exploring the beach.
OZONE – Hong Kong
Ready to drink among the clouds? OZONE is located on the 118th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, making it one of the highest bars in the world. The view from this altitude is simply unreal, offering a panoramic look at the dense, futuristic cityscape and Victoria Harbour.
- What Makes the View Special: From this high up, the entire city looks like a miniature model. The endless skyscrapers, the bustling harbor with its tiny ferries, and the surrounding mountains create a jaw-dropping visual. The bar's futuristic, blue-hued interior design adds to the feeling that you’re floating in another world.
- What to Drink: OZONE has a creative cocktail menu inspired by the five elements of nature: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. These drinks are as visually impressive as the view itself. This is the place to splurge on something unique and take some amazing photos for your feed.
Le Sirenuse – Positano, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is famous for its cliffside villages and stunning sea views, and Le Sirenuse hotel in Positano offers one of the best perspectives. Its terrace bar, Franco's Bar, is an open-air spot decorated with contemporary art that looks out over the colorful houses tumbling down to the Mediterranean Sea.
- What Makes the View Special: Positano is one of the most picturesque towns on earth. The view from Franco's Bar captures the iconic scene of pastel-colored buildings clinging to the cliff, with the beautiful dome of the main church and the sparkling blue water below. It’s pure Italian coastal charm.
- What to Drink: An Aperol Spritz is the essential drink here. This bright orange aperitif is light, refreshing, and practically the official drink of an Italian summer. The bar also serves classic cocktails and a great selection of Italian wines. It’s the perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink while watching the sun go down.
Top of the Mark – San Francisco, USA
A classic San Francisco institution, Top of the Mark is a penthouse lounge on the 19th floor of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins hotel. It offers 360-degree views of the city, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the rolling hills of the Bay Area.
- What Makes the View Special: This lounge gives you a complete panoramic view of one of America's most beautiful cities. You can watch the fog roll in over the Golden Gate Bridge, see the lights twinkle on the Bay Bridge, and trace the famous winding streets from above. It has been a go-to spot for impressive views for generations.
- What to Drink: The bar is famous for its "100 Martinis" menu, so you can find a version of the classic cocktail to suit any taste. Ordering a martini here feels like taking part in a timeless tradition. It's a sophisticated experience that matches the incredible scenery.
How to Find Your Own Epic View
You don’t have to travel the world to have a drink with a view. Here are some quick tips for finding great spots wherever you are.
- Look Up: Check out hotels in your area. They often have rooftop or high-floor bars that are open to the public.
- Head to the Water: Bars and restaurants located on a beach, lake, or river almost always have great scenery.
- Use Social Media: Search hashtags like #[city]rooftop or #[city]views on Instagram to see where people are posting photos.
The next time you’re planning a night out, think about the view. Finding a spot where the scenery is as good as the drink list is an easy way to make any occasion feel special.