We adore the Plunge Bar. Even well-dressed locals can’t skirt the slow go-ahead for entrance to this luxe Hotel Gansevoort rooftop lounge overlooking the Hudson River. The endless crowd spills out of the glass-enclosed main area onto the wraparound patio, sipping outrageously priced cocktails. Tough guys in T-shirts and gawking tourists bump up against stylish professionals and trendsetters–all of them drawn by the absolutely stunning views of the Hudson and midtown Manhattan.
Weeknights offer a more reasonable scene when the panorama can truly be appreciated. Go on a Monday or Tuesday night for a quiet, yet expensive, drink — and enjoy the view in peace. Ironically, you won’t be allowed anywhere near the pool, which is for registered guests only. Open from 11 a.m. to 4 a.m.
Plunge
Hotel Gansevoort
18 Ninth Ave., 14th fl., New York, NY 10014 at 13th St.
212-206-6700