Bring on Summer

It’s that time of year again: windows are opening; flowers are blooming; tables are moving outside; pool covers are lifting; skirts and shorts are being put back in rotations; bike lanes and parks are filling up. The warmth has returned. If you listen closely, you can almost hear the sound of mojitos being muddled.

The sun…it’s back.

Rejoice, fellow New Yorkers! For now is the time when the city truly comes alive. There is nothing better than spring and summer in NYC, especially if you’re fortunate enough to live in one of the Midtown West apartments at 555TEN. Before we even venture out to some surrounding options, we have to mention the incredible rooftop pool that sits 650 feet over Manhattan. It’s the type of pool people wait in line for all day even if it’s just for a quick dip.

But if you live in 555TEN, it’s right upstairs. Imagine lounging on a float in a private rooftop pool as the city sparkles beneath you. That could be your Tuesday—or, frankly, any other day. You’ll never want to leave.

But if you do, here are some local summer recommendations:

El Centro  |  824 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10019

El Centro is a vibrant contemporary Mexican eatery with incredible quesadillas, nachos, enchiladas, mojitos, and margaritas. They have a sizeable street-side patio space, so you can soak up some sun while imbibing. It’s the perfect place for an early dinner or just a few cocktails.

McGarry’s  | 417 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10001

If you’re in the mood for a good ol’ burger and fries and perhaps an ice-cold beer, McGarry’s is the destination. Their food is bar fare prepared with care—it’s delicious. Their service is friendly and quick, and their beer garden out back is an amazing place to be on a nice day. The hours tend to just tick away when you’re there.

Summer Garden and Bar  |  20 West 50th Street, New York, NY 10020

This one is a few blocks further than the others, but it’s worth the steps. Summer Garden sits right in front of the fountain at Rockefeller Center; it’s an iconic and stunning space and a must-visit during the summer months. They have a stellar brunch, and it’s a post-work destination like no other.

44 ½  |  626 Tenth Avenue, New York, NY 10036

This place is about as serene as an NYC restaurant gets. There’s a bamboo garden here, and there’s plenty of outdoor seating. You’ll still feel like you’re in New York, just a quieter, more ethereal section of it. Their brunch (modern American fare) is phenomenal and quite popular in the area, so be prepared to wait. Again, it’s worth it. Sitting outside at 44 ½ on a nice day while eating a sharp gruyere omelet is pretty heavenly.