
Westlight
Chic rooftop bar in Brooklyn offering panoramic Manhattan skyline views, craft cocktails, and delicious small plates.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Unforgettable city glow

Westlight
Best Time
Unforgettable city glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chic rooftop bar in Brooklyn offering panoramic Manhattan skyline views, craft cocktails, and delicious small plates.
"The scenery is absolutely stunning. If you’re coming here to take beautiful photos or enjoy the night view, this place is definitely worth it."

🎯 Reserve Your Spot
Book ahead for outdoor seating to guarantee those amazing sunset views.
📸 Capture the Magic
The skyline views are perfect for photos, especially during golden hour.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Skyline Views
Terrace and glass-enclosed lounge
Breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline, especially magical at sunset.

Craft Cocktails
Bar
Unique and beautifully presented drinks that complement the sophisticated ambiance.

Delicious Small Plates
Dining area
Flavorful and appetizing bites, with the jerk oxtail sliders being a standout.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Views
Dress for the Occasion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Reserve Your Spot
Book ahead for outdoor seating to guarantee those amazing sunset views.
📸 Capture the Magic
The skyline views are perfect for photos, especially during golden hour.
🧥 Dress Smart Casual
Elevated attire fits the chic rooftop bar vibe.
🌬️ Indoor Seating Recommended
For cooler months or windy evenings, indoor seating offers comfort without sacrificing views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Reserve Your Spot
Book ahead for outdoor seating to guarantee those amazing sunset views.
📸 Capture the Magic
The skyline views are perfect for photos, especially during golden hour.
🧥 Dress Smart Casual
Elevated attire fits the chic rooftop bar vibe.
🌬️ Indoor Seating Recommended
For cooler months or windy evenings, indoor seating offers comfort without sacrificing views.
🍸 Sip & Savor
Don't miss the unique craft cocktails, they're a highlight!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Westlight is celebrated for its absolutely stunning panoramic skyline views, making it a top choice for photos and soaking in the city's magic, especially at sunset. Visitors rave about the creative craft cocktails and flavorful small plates, with exceptional service adding to the overall positive experience. While the price point is moderate for NYC, some find the food to be less of a focus than the drinks and views.
"This place never disappoints even if you're visiting just for drinks or after dinner. The views are probably one of the best in NYC. The top terrace with couches is a nice touch because it offers sitting area even if you're not booking a table. Its tough getting through the crowd in order to get to the bar but it's manageable. Diverse selection of mixed drinks including some draft beers. Must visit if you're in the area."
Konrad Strumidlo
"Westlight is an absolute top 5 pick for best rooftop restaurant in NYC. With breathtaking views, delicious small plates, unique drinks, and one of the largest rooftop spaces you'll find in the 5 boroughs, Westlight is easily one of the best rooftop spots that you can find in NYC. The food was flavorful and appetizing, especially the jerk oxtail sliders!! To top it all off, the staff was simply amazing. Every single employee I encountered was not only courteous, attentive and knowledgeable, but just all-round wonderful people. And as if the glass-enclosed and terrace dining areas weren't great enough, they have a large open lawn a level above, that offers completely unobstructed views from all angles. Westlight is definitely a new addition to my favorites, and I'm eager to visit again soon!!"
Shakara McNeish
"The scenery is absolutely stunning. If you’re coming here to take beautiful photos or enjoy the night view, this place is definitely worth it. But if you’re looking for great food, it might not be the best choice. The prices are moderate—not cheap, but not too expensive either. It’s definitely a great spot for dates or gatherings.
The photo shows what I ordered when I went there—everything was quite good except for the Coke. Maybe it’s just because I don’t like flavored Coke, but honestly, it tasted terrible.
P.S. I recommend sitting indoors during spring, autumn and winter. You can step outside to take some photos, but don’t eat out there. The wind was so strong when I went that my food got cold right after it was served. Overall, though, I’d still highly recommend this place."
Jennie Peng
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Westlight is located at 111 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249, within The William Vale hotel. You can reach it via subway lines L, G, or J/M/Z to the Bedford Avenue or Marcy Avenue stations, followed by a short walk.
While there isn't dedicated public parking for Westlight, The William Vale hotel offers valet parking. Street parking in Williamsburg can be challenging, so public transport or ride-sharing is often recommended.
The L train to Bedford Avenue is a popular and convenient option, putting you within walking distance of Westlight. The G train to Metropolitan Ave or the J/M/Z to Marcy Ave are also viable alternatives.
Yes, Westlight is very accessible by public transport. Several subway lines stop within a reasonable walking distance, making it easy to get to from various parts of NYC.
Absolutely! Taking the subway from Manhattan to Brooklyn is straightforward. The L train from Union Square or other Manhattan stations will get you close to Westlight.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Westlight operates as a bar and restaurant, so typically no separate tickets are required for entry. However, reservations are highly recommended, especially for outdoor seating during peak hours.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and by day of the week. It's best to check the official Westlight website or their social media for the most up-to-date information on their operating hours.
Reservations can usually be made through the Westlight website or via reservation platforms like Resy. Booking in advance is strongly advised, particularly for weekend evenings and sunset times.
Generally, there is no cover charge to enter Westlight. You pay for your drinks and any food you order. However, special events might have different admission policies.
While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, especially for indoor seating or if there are cancellations, reservations are strongly recommended to avoid disappointment, particularly for prime outdoor spots.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour leading up to sunset offers the most spectacular lighting for photos of the Manhattan skyline. Evenings after dark, with the city lights twinkling, are also incredibly photogenic.
Generally, personal photography for social media is allowed and encouraged. However, professional photoshoots or commercial filming may require prior permission from the venue.
The outdoor terrace provides unobstructed views and is ideal for capturing the full skyline. The glass-enclosed lounge also offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially on cooler nights.
Yes, absolutely! Many visitors enjoy photographing their craft cocktails and small plates to share their experience.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is sufficient for most visitors. For more professional shots, a camera with a wide-angle lens would be beneficial to capture the expansive views.
🍽️ 🍸 Drinks & Dining
Westlight is known for its extensive list of craft cocktails, featuring unique ingredients and creative presentations. They also offer a selection of wines, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Reviews suggest the small plates are flavorful and a good accompaniment to drinks, with items like jerk oxtail sliders being highly praised. While not a full-service restaurant, the food is considered a strong point.
Prices are considered moderate, not cheap but not overly expensive for a NYC rooftop bar with such views. Cocktails and small plates are priced accordingly for the experience.
Information on a specific happy hour is not widely publicized, but it's always worth checking their website or inquiring directly for any ongoing specials.
Westlight focuses on small plates and shareable bites rather than traditional full entrees. It's ideal for appetizers, snacks, or a light meal to accompany drinks.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The vibe is chic, sophisticated, and lively, especially during sunset. It's a popular spot for dates, gatherings, and enjoying the city's energy.
Westlight can get very crowded, particularly on weekend evenings and around sunset. Weekday evenings or earlier in the evening might offer a slightly less packed experience.
Outdoor seating on the terrace offers the most direct views, but indoor seating in the glass-enclosed lounge is also excellent and more protected from the elements. The top terrace with couches is a nice touch for casual seating.
Absolutely! The stunning views, craft cocktails, and sophisticated ambiance make Westlight a perfect choice for a romantic date night.
The dress code is generally smart casual. While not strictly enforced, dressing nicely will help you fit in with the upscale atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you are visiting with older teens who appreciate city views and a trendy environment, it could be an option. However, for families with younger children, exploring other Brooklyn attractions might be more appropriate. Always check Westlight's specific policies regarding minors if you plan to visit with children.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
Making a reservation for an outdoor table during sunset hours will elevate the experience even further. The sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere allows for intimate conversation while enjoying the stunning cityscape.
💸 Budget Travelers
To manage costs, consider visiting during off-peak hours or focusing on just a couple of drinks and one shared appetizer. Alternatively, enjoy the stunning views from afar by exploring other public spaces in Brooklyn with skyline vistas, or consider Westlight for a special occasion rather than a regular outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unbeatable Views
Whether you're a tourist or a local, the skyline panorama from Westlight is consistently praised as one of the best in the city. The unobstructed sightlines allow for a truly immersive experience, making you feel on top of the world. It's the kind of view that inspires awe and creates lasting memories, perfect for special occasions or simply enjoying a night out.
Craft Cocktails and Small Bites
Complementing the drinks are the flavorful small plates. While not a traditional restaurant, Westlight offers a selection of delicious bites perfect for sharing. Standout items like the jerk oxtail sliders have been frequently mentioned and praised for their taste and quality. This focus on well-executed small plates makes Westlight an ideal destination for a pre-dinner drink and appetizer, or for a more casual evening of drinks and snacks.
Planning Your Visit
Consider the time of year for your visit. During spring, autumn, and winter, indoor seating is often preferred due to cooler temperatures and potential wind. However, stepping out onto the terrace for photos is still a must. The crowd levels tend to be highest during sunset hours and on weekend evenings, so opting for a weekday visit or an earlier time slot might offer a more relaxed experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit