Cocktails of the Week: Great Spring Sips

Whether you like your libations with a Downtown or classic Uptown spin, here are two options that will help get you in the mood to celebrate spring. STK Rooftop (26 Little West 12th St.) is a great spot for welcoming a new season with its sweeping views of The Hudson River and The Highline. Plus there’s that new retractable glass enclosure, so you don’t have to wait until temps heat up to enjoy cocktails with a view. When you’re above it all, try the STK Rooftop’s refreshing Green Intensity. It’s a post-winter pick-me-up that packs a real punch. (If you want to make it yourself, you’ll need 2.75 oz. Absolut Elyx, .5 oz. fresh lime juice, .75 oz. simple syrup, 2 slices of jalapeño, and 2 basil leaves. Place the jalapenos and basil leaves into a mixing glass; muddle. Add the vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a jalapeño slice.) But we think it tastes extra special when the drink comes attached with a Gotham view.

Celebrate spring at The Plaza (768 Fifth Ave.) by ordering the Champagne Punch Bowl at the hotel’s swanky Rose Club, a historic setting (formerly the Persian Room) where entertainment luminaries like Bob Fosse and Billie Holiday came to perform and relax. The punch, which serves six to eight (so bring friends!), is made with Moet & Chandon Brut Champagne, Nolet gin, fresh strawberries, and fresh lemon.