New York’s Best Summer Cocktails

Summer is finally here, and whether it’s to unwind after a long day at the office or to catch up with friends, an icy cocktail is a must.

In Midtown, the Peninsula Hotel’s rooftop terrace Salon De Ning boasts spectacular views of Fifth Avenue. The Salon has an interior bar as well as two large terraces, featuring Chinese-style day beds for lounging.  Their menu offers a variety of Martinis, sparkling cocktails, and Margaritas.  The Cool as a Cucumber Martini couples extra-cold organic cucumber vodka with fresh cucumber slices for a light and refreshing drink.

El Quinto Pino, a tapas bar in Chelsea, offers a glimpse of true Spanish food and culture without having to leave the Manhattan.  Typically wine and Sangria accompany tapas but Quinto Pino offers the Pomada, a basil-infused frozen gin lemonade that originates on the Spanish Island of Mallorca.

Mexican restaurant Dos Caminos has locations in the Meatpacking District, in SoHo, on 3rd Avenue, and on Park.   Their extensive margarita menu includes the basic frozen flavors such as Lime, Strawberry, and Mango, as well as some more unique options including: Prickly Pear, Blood Orange, and Lychee.

The Rooftop Garden at 230 FIFTH is the largest outdoor rooftop lounge in New York and offers tantalizing views of Fifth Avenue and the Manhattan skyline.  If you are looking for a grown-up sophisticated twist on a classic childhood frozen treat, order the Golden Dream.  Reminiscent of the creamsicle, this martini combines Galiano, Cointreau, Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice, and Cream creating the perfect summer cocktail.

Momofuku Noodle Bar offers the most unusual summer cocktail on the list called the Momofuku Soju Slushie.  Soju, a type of Korean alcohol similar to vodka, is mixed with either Lychee or Yuzu Palmer, a relative of the mandarin orange, to create this frothy beverage.

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