Everything Tastes Better With a View: 6 Can't Miss Rooftop Bars
The moment the sun comes out in Richmond is the perfect moment to enjoy an al fresco cocktail or bite to eat. Kick that experience up a notch by enjoying some of the River City’s award-winning food and beverages from one of these fan-favorite rooftop bars.
Source: Graduate Hotel Gallery
Dubbed the “pool house in the sky",” The Byrd House marries the concept of the pool house and the penthouse into one. Whether you’re in the mood to drink, socialize, or go for a swim, you can do it all on the rooftop of the Graduate Hotel. Pair a local craft beer or cocktail with a generous appetizer like veggie egg rolls and jumbo smoked wings. When you stop by, be sure to try their signature Graduate Smashburger. Patrons must be 21+ to enjoy the 360-degree views of the city but do not have to be a guest of the hotel.
2. Havana ‘59
Source: Havana ‘59 Gallery
Havana ‘59 has been a staple of Shockoe Bottom since the 90s. String lights, “crumbling” plaster walls, palm trees, and the scent of cigars in the air, and the occasional salsa lesson takes guests back to 1950s Havana when the city was known as the “Paris of the Caribbean”. Havana ‘59 is known for its unforgettable menu and renowned service- winning them the 2017 OpenTable Diner’s Choice Award. The juices are freshly pressed and the ingredients are locally sourced. Be sure to order a mojito, a drink born on the Island of Cuba, and one of the nation’s oldest cocktails. It’s only right.
Source: The HofGarden Gallery
The HofGarden is located inside the iconic Hofheimer Building. Paying homage to Germany, the restaurant is known for its creative design and assorted decor. The Hofheimer Building has been standing tall in Scott’s Addition since the early 1900s beginning as a fine rug company–what is now the rooftop was originally created for air drying rugs. It now serves as the perfect outdoor modern space. Fitted with picnic tables with umbrellas, games, and live music, the bar brings traditional German food to a relaxed environment with a lively night scene in the summertime.
Source: Kabana Rooftop Instagram
Home to some of the best views of the city, Kabana hails as the highest rooftop bar in Richmond at 20 stories up. Whether you’re coming for date night, happy hour, or a get-together with friends, everyone will enjoy the spectacular view of the James River and Virginia’s State Capital. The vibe is fun and modern, with glass panels, sleek couches, and a wrap-around bar making the experience all the more enjoyable. Friday and Saturday nights are ideal for dancing under the stars, with a full cocktail list offered and brunch on Sundays to keep the party going.
Source: Quirk Hotel Website
Q Rooftop Bar knows exactly what you want when you step onto their 2,000 sq. ft. rooftop- somewhere to relax, breathe in the fresh air, sip your favorite drink, and take in an incredible view. If you're staying at Quirk Hotel, your perks get even better- priority entry to the rooftop. Their menu features craft cocktails and beer, wine on tap, and top-shelf liquors, as well as elevated street fare, ensuring there is something for everyone. Everyone 21 years or older, that is.
Source: OpenTable
Starr Hill Brewery is one of the most award-winning craft breweries on the East Coast and the second oldest brewery in Virginia. Starr Hill has won 24 Great American Beer Festival, World Beer Cup, and Great British Beer Festival medals. With live music and a steady rotation of food trucks, this rooftop is where the crowd is at when springtime finally breaks. Even though this brewery stands alongside many others in the Scott’s Addition neighborhood, its rooftop allows it to stand *ahem* above the rest.