Photographed by Sunny Shokrae.The Modern
Nestled inside the Museum of Modern Art, The Modern is Danny Meyer's upscale and completely irresistible dining space. While on the pricey side (the menu is strictly prix-fix), the stylish and contemporary space is not only sleek and minimalistic, but comes with a view of the museum's sculpture garden.
The Modern, 9 West 53rd Street (between 5th and 6th avenues); 212-333-1220.
Landmarc
Situated in the Time Warner Center, Marc Murphy's Landmarc looks out onto the hustle and bustle of Columbus Circle. Come for the classic Midtown Manhattan view, stay for the French-American fare: gourmet hamburgers with gruyère frites, boudin noir, and hand-cut filet mignon.
Landmarc, 10 Columbus Circle, #3; 212-823-6123.
Alma
The three-floor Brooklyn restaurant boasts a traditional Mexican menu (chips and guac, anyone?), an extensive tequila selection, oh, and a perfect view of Manhattan. While the East River and skyline can be viewed from any floor, the roof deck (which is open year-round), should be on any list of go-to spots.
Alma, 187 Columbia Street (at Degraw Street), Brooklyn; 718-643-5400.
Perry Street
Having a view of New Jersey may sound like a drag, but thanks to cities like Hoboken and Jersey City, the growing skyline makes for a captivating view. Jean-Georges Vongerichten's West Village spot, Perry Street — located in the all-glass Richard Meier Towers — has just that, plus cuisine that clearly comes from one of the world's most famous chefs.
Perry Street, 176 Perry Street (at West Side Highway); 212-352-1900.
Robert
Located on top of the Museum of Arts and Design, Robert is practically perfect. It has a view of Central Park, Columbus Circle, and Broadway. Its menu is filled with contemporary, American-Nouveau dishes and the interior — fulled with light installations, multi-colored modern furniture, and an array of sculptures — was certainly designed with the art aficionado in mind.
Robert, 2 Columbus Circle; 212-299-7730.