As summer approaches, terraces in the world’s hottest travel spots are gaining popularity as destinations in themselves, as the perfect go-to spots for socialising and enjoying the warm weather. From those in bustling urban centres to scenic coastal towns, terraces offer a perfect blend of fresh air, delicious food, and refreshing drinks. Reflecting this trend, social conversations about outdoor dining have increased by 51.72% over the past year, highlighting the growing appeal of these vibrant spaces.
In Europe, cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Rome are famous for their vibrant terrace culture. Parisians flock to the numerous cafes lining the streets, enjoying their coffee and croissants while watching the world go by. Barcelona’s terraces are perfect for sipping sangria and indulging in tapas, with the added bonus of stunning Mediterranean Sea views. Rome’s historic charm is best experienced on its many piazzas, where tourists and locals alike can savour authentic Italian cuisine al fresco.
Across the Atlantic, North American cities are embracing the terrace trend as well. New York City’s rooftop bars offer breathtaking skyline views, making them a popular choice for both locals and tourists. In Asia, terraces are popping up in cities like Tokyo, Bangkok, and Singapore. Tokyo’s bustling streets are dotted with izakayas (informal bars) featuring outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying Japanese cuisine under the stars. Bangkok’s rooftop bars provide a unique vantage point to admire the city’s skyline while enjoying a cocktail and Singapore’s tropical climate makes outdoor dining a year-round affair, with many establishments opening lush, garden-like terraces as an additional offering to their guests.
Australia and New Zealand also boast impressive terrace scenes. Sydney’s waterfront decks offer stunning views of the harbour, making them ideal for a relaxing meal or drink. In Melbourne, the laneways come alive with vibrant outdoor dining spaces, while Auckland’s terraces provide a perfect setting to enjoy New Zealand’s world-renowned wines.
As summer approaches, terraces invite people to enjoy the season’s warmth. These spaces have become synonymous with relaxation and enjoyment, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re savouring a meal with friends or unwinding with a drink, terraces provide a delightful experience that captures the essence of summer.
For spontaneous staycations or impromptu trips away, below is a lineup of terrace spots for inspiration to live your best alfresco life this summer.
Posi+Ivo at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve | Dorado, PR
Dining at POSI + IVO at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve invites guests to relax into the surrounding environment and remember that the simplest things can bring great joy. Situated right on the beach, guests can enjoy a colourful sunset, the feeling of sand between your toes, and incredible Asian-inspired flavours and Latin-fusion dishes. In addition to offering a variety of locally-sourced seafood dishes, Posi+Ivo Sand Bar offers a world-class Omakase experience via the onsite Omakase & Ceviche Bar from world-class Chef Tairo. The lunch and evening experience highlights made-to-order Japanese cuisine using fresh ingredients from Japan, New Zealand and Hawaii.
Great Porch at Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection | Gardiner, NY
Sprung from the site where a fallow tree nursery once stood, Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection is an oasis within reach just 90 minutes from New York City in the storied Hudson Valley. The 140-acre resort is designed to provide meaningful encounters with nature at every step. The Great Porch is the pièce de résistance of Wildflower Farms that welcomes guests with a stunning view of the Shawangunk Ridge, alongside a fire pit that beckons lingering conversation over botanical cocktails and source-origin cuisine from Clay, the property’s working-farm-to-table restaurant.
Wander Rooftop at Canopy Cancun | Cancun, MX
Located on the top of Canopy Cancun, Wander Rooftop is the heart of the property. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails like the Margarita Canopy, El Viaje de Kalani, and Mezcla Yucateco while listening to local performers. The space features an infinity pool, a lounge with elevated cuisine, and a spa with relaxing, restorative body treatments.
RT60 Rooftop Bar & Lounge at Hard Rock Hotel New York | New York, NY
Situated atop the 34th floor of the Hard Rock Hotel New York amidst the bustling heart of Midtown Manhattan, RT60 Rooftop Bar and Lounge is a sanctuary for cocktail enthusiasts. RT60 draws its name from the formula for the perfect measurement of sound: a reverberation time (RT) of 60 decibels is optimal for listening, and a nod to the perfect measurement of crushable cocktails. It offers reimagined classic bites and an exciting lineup of live music performances and DJs all year round.
Leyanda | Brooklyn, NY
Leyenda is a pan-Latin inspired cocktail bar and restaurant in Brooklyn from industry greats Julie Reiner and Ivy Mix. Leyenda celebrates the imbibing traditions of Latin America and beyond through creative cocktails, highlighting seasonal ingredients and classic and modern cocktail techniques. Meanwhile, the stellar food menu features contemporary takes on traditional dishes from across Central and South America, curated by Head Chef Jorge Romero. With recognition from some of the industry’s most trusted organizations – including the James Beard Awards and Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards – Leyenda has cemented itself as one of the top bars in the country.
Swingers West End | London, UK
Swingers West End has partnered with Ciroc Limonata to create an Amalfi Coast-inspired terrace with hanging lemon trees, deck chairs and beautiful foliage. Guests can enjoy refreshing cocktails, expertly crafted with Ciroc Limonata. They include the Limonata Spritz, Limone Sour and the Capri Sunset and every Saturday, Swingers West End hosts a Bottomless Brunch in association with Ciroc Limonata. For £55 per person, summer-loving guests can enjoy 90 minutes of unlimited summer cocktails, a round of crazy golf, and delicious street food from Patty & Bun.
Sofitel London St James | London, UK
Combining two of our biggest loves: Paris and rosé, Sofitel has launched a new rosé terrace, Bistrot on the Terrace, transporting guests to the lively streets of Paris. It features a small plates menu from Wild Honey St James, the hotel’s Michelin-starred French Bistro. Highlights include the grilled red prawns with Hungarian smoked paprika, whole young chicken lacquered with honey and preserved lemon, and the strawberry choux bun. Each weekend features live music, making this the go-to location for al fresco dining and imbibing this summer, whilst embracing the essence of ‘Joie De Vivre.’
Le Marta, Hanging Garden at Hotel Fouquet’s Paris | Paris, FR
Located in the heart of Paris’ 8th arrondissement, bordering the legendary Champs-Elysées, just steps from the Arc de Triomphe, the Marta Rooftop has been redesigned to reveal an all-new look this summer. Welcome to an elegant, romantic and enchanting address high above the city streets. At the centre, a fountain opens onto a lush, green space, decorated with expertly selected eclectic vintage furniture throughout. A custom-designed majestic plant sculpture in the shape of a horse enhances the whimsicality of this urban garden, making for a truly unique summer experience.
