From rooftop views and riverfront dining to curated tasting menus and fireworks cruises, New York City offers a wide range of ways to celebrate Independence Day this year. Here’s a roundup of dining destinations and events to consider for the holiday.
Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge will host a Fourth of July event featuring panoramic views of the 49th annual Macy’s Fireworks over the Brooklyn Bridge and East River. The 21+ celebration runs from 5 pm to 9 pm and includes elevated cocktails, DJ sets, and premium skyline views.
General admission tickets start at $495.99. Premium table packages range from $6,000 to $15,000, including options like indoor lounge seating, rooftop tables, or a Liberty Poolside Package with private swim access. Tickets are available at posh.vip, and booking inquiries can be directed to [email protected].
City Cruises Fireworks Dinner Cruises
For those looking to spend the evening on the water, City Cruises is offering three festive Fourth of July dinner experiences, all providing front-row views of New York City’s iconic fireworks display.
Signature Dinner Cruise – Pier 15 (South Street Seaport)
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Location: Pier 15, 78 South Street, New York, NY 10038
Cost: Starting at $310 per person (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and VIP Upgrades available)
Board the City Cruises vessel at Pier 15 for a celebratory evening that includes a chef-curated buffet dinner suitable for all ages, open-air views of the skyline, and access to both indoor and outdoor seating areas. Entertainment includes a live DJ spinning top hits, dancing, games, and a fully stocked cash bar. Ideal for families, groups, or couples, this cruise offers a lively way to take in the fireworks and city lights from the East River.
Signature Dinner Cruise – Pier 61 (Chelsea Piers)
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Location: Pier 61, West 23rd Street and 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10011
Cost: Starting at $310 per person (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and VIP Upgrades available)
Departing from Chelsea Piers, this Signature Dinner Cruise mirrors the experience of the Pier 15 route but offers a different vantage point along the Hudson River. Guests can enjoy the same chef-curated buffet, open-air decks, DJ-led entertainment, and cash bar setup. This option is well-suited for those based on the west side of Manhattan or looking to celebrate closer to Midtown.
Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise – Pier 61 (Chelsea Piers)
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Location: Pier 61, West 23rd Street and 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10011
Cost: Starting at $450 per person (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and VIP Upgrades available)
For a more refined experience, the Premier Plus Dinner Cruise aboard the European-style, glass-enclosed Bateaux offers a seated three-course plated meal featuring seasonal ingredients. The experience includes a complimentary welcome cocktail, live music from a band and vocalist, and panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, the Brooklyn Bridge, and more. Guests can enjoy the fireworks from their tables, the dance floor, or the open-air observation deck. This cruise is designed for those seeking a more elegant and immersive Independence Day celebration.
Meili Rooftop, Williamsburg
Celebrate with skyline views at the newly opened Meili Rooftop perched atop the Coda Hotel in Williamsburg. From 6 p.m. to midnight, enjoy Sichuan street food by Michelin-starred chef Peter He and cocktails inspired by Sichuan flavours. Guests may catch a glimpse of the Macy’s Fireworks over the East River while enjoying dishes and drinks from the 8th floor terrace. Downstairs, Meili offers a full vegan and regular Sichuan menu from 12 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
ATIK, City Island
For a waterfront escape, ATIK offers Mediterranean dining on Eastchester Bay, led by Chef José Castillo. Highlights include Braised Beef Short Ribs with truffled corn polenta, Paella Marinera, and cocktails like the Clam Digger and Tiramisu Martini. This is a relaxed option for anyone arriving by land or sea looking to enjoy fireworks over the water.
Restaurant Yuu, Brooklyn
Those seeking an elevated dining experience can reserve seats at Restaurant Yuu, which is offering a one-night-only tasting menu on July 4 at $300 per guest. Highlights include Wagyu Wellington and a Caviar Toast on housemade brioche. Each guest is welcomed with a glass of champagne or a non-alcoholic alternative. Seatings are available at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Hortus NYC, NoMad
Hortus NYC presents a relaxed option in NoMad with both lunch and dinner service on July 4. Signature rice pots (Sotbap) are available for lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., while the dinner menu from 5 to 11 p.m. features Clam Chowder Pasta, Steak Frites with an Asian twist, and Seafood K-Paella in a glass-enclosed atrium setting.
Blu on the Hudson, Weehawken
Located across the river from Manhattan, Blu on the Hudson offers al fresco dining with views of the NYC skyline. Expect seafood towers, hand-crafted pastas, and prime steaks, complemented by creative cocktails and a global wine list. Open from 12 p.m. to 1 a.m. on July 4.
Palermo Argentinian Bistro, Gramercy
Palermo’s new Gramercy location brings Argentinian fare to Gramercy Park. Guests can share dishes like Beef Tartare topped with quail egg and caviar, or go for the Parrillada for Two featuring grilled meats and housemade sauces. The all-Argentinian wine list and cocktails like Tinto de Verano round out the experience.
Mustard Indian Eatery, Harlem
For a more casual meal, Mustard Indian Eatery near Central Park offers a vegetarian-friendly menu of Indian comfort food, including regional curries, traditional sweets, and drinks like Mango Lassi and Lychee Juice. This is a great family-friendly BYOB option close to the park and pool.
Wonderland Bar, East Village
Escape the heat with a cocktail at Wonderland Bar in the East Village. The vibrant, immersive setting features Sichuan small plates by Peter He and a bar program led by Joe Tsou. Expect bold cocktails, vibrant decor, and a laid-back setting from 5 p.m. to midnight.
Casa Bond NoHo
Celebrate with regional Mexican cuisine at Casa Bond NoHo, known for its Lobster Guacamole, Cochinita Pibil, and 15-tequila drinks cart. Their Bonding Hour runs from 4 to 7 p.m. with $5 Margaritas and $9 Aperol Spritzes, while al fresco dining offers a view of Bowery’s lively scene.
CHILI, Midtown Manhattan
CHILI delivers Sichuan classics in a vintage-inspired space with dishes like Jellyfish Salad and Red Style Chungking Braised Fish Stew. Their cocktail program includes theatrical drinks like the Bubble Dream and Blossom of Snow, offering a festive flair in Midtown without the high price tag.