By Lauren Bens
For a truly enchanting and edible escape without leaving New York, VERSA Rooftop & Restaurant has just the vibe you’ve been looking for. While they are temporarily closed due to indoor dining closures, VERSA is looking forward to reopening early this year. Located within the Renaissance New York Midtown Hotel in the Garment District on West 35th Street high above the noisy streets of the city, VERSA, which boasts New York’s largest retractable rooftop, has an array of stylish seating spaces, from bar stools to a laidback lounge, main dining room and even chic outdoor area.
With heat lamps and some stunning, unobstructed views – catch a glimpse of the Empire State Building and Hudson Yards – you can enjoy their sleek outdoor space featuring banquet seating, decorative décor and plenty of greenery, so you truly feel like you have made a much needed escape from the urban jungle. From dinner to late night bites, Versa offers more than just a pretty plate – their eclectic menu, reflective of the diversity of New York – is also very palatable! Their dishes, which are full of fresh, seasonal and delicious flavors are more reminiscent of a five-star restaurant than a rooftop bar.
Brought to you by Backal Hospitality Group, VERSA, which spans 12,000 square feet, offers multiple unique seating areas, making it the perfect place for your next special and intimate event. With personalized menus, you can create a memorable and mouthwatering affair. Their stylish and spacious spaces include Patio East, Patio West, Canopy, Main Dining Room, Thread Library and Thread Lounge.
You will definitely receive a warm – and tasty – welcome at this unique space that is operating under all safety guidelines. Start with some appetizing appetizers, perfect for sharing – although you might not want to after you try them! Fall in love at first bite with their Burrata, made with grilled eggplant, tomato puree, kalamata streusel and baguette. Other favorites include Roasted Beets with brown butter, goat cheese and crispy quinoa, Birrie Style Beef Tacos, a corn tortilla filled with mozzarella, pico de gallo and spiced jus, Crispy Calamari and buffalo style or salt and vinegar Chicken Bites. Dinner plates including Halibut with charred broccoli and leek butter, thick Bucatini noodles and Bone-In Short Rib made with creamy polenta, baby carrots and natural jus make this the most gourmet and gorgeous rooftop in Manhattan. You can still enjoy a Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich or Bacon and Cheddar Burger with a variety of fries, from salt and vinegar to mozzarella and jalapeno, if you are craving bar food.
Pair your plates with an equally tasty cocktail or glass of wine from their extensive menu. Enjoy a Spicy Cucumber Margarita, craft beer from the Bronx, and a fantastic wine selection, including a Sauvignon Blac from the Loire Valley in France that will help you wind down the right way.
Dig into delightful views and even more delicious plates at VERSA this season!
