Bar of the Week: MONARCH ROOFTOP LOUNGE in Midtown

Monarch is one of New York City's most popular rooftop lounges. We name it our "Bar of the Week." Located at 71 West 35th Street and set high atop Herald Square, it is a perfect location for midtown guests to enjoy great food and drink while taking in a spectacular view of the Empire State building. Monarch consists of an expansive 5,000 square feet of interior and exterior space with two bars. Monarch has a Scandinavian-chic décor and features an indoor lounge that connects seamlessly to the exterior open-air venue with sliding floor to ceiling glass doors. The modern, deep-seated upholstered sofas invite guests to relax and enjoy the views of Manhattan.

Nightlife impresario and owner of Monarch Rooftop Lounge, Ric Addison recently announced their new summer cocktails, light fare menu and Saturday brunch service. Monarch's distinctive menus are crafted by Executive Chef Daniel Billheimer and Executive Mixologist Genese DeBeaux. And it is Ric Addison's background spanning 15 years of Manhattan nightlife that makes Monarch a real happening. We stopped by on a Tuesday night to enjoy cocktails, small plates and the fabulous ambiance.

The cocktail menu has a great selection of summer-inspired cocktails, including: "Mule Meets Mojito" with Stoli Vodka, Ginger Infused Brown Sugar Syrup, Muddled Limes & Mint, Topped with Ginger Beer; a "Raspberry Crush" with Kettle Citroen Vodka, Fresh Raspberry, Muddled Lemons, and Soda Water and their "Kool as a Cucumber" with Bombay Sapphire Gin, St. Germaine, Muddled Kale and Cucumber and Fresh Lime. You can also enjoy an excellent selection of beer, wine and sparkling.

We loved the light fare menu with delightful selections for all tastes and with presentations that are as impressive as the views. Try the Truffle Drizzled Pomme Frites with Parsley, Parmesan, and Lemon Aioli. This is the perfect season for their Lobster Rolls on Mini Brioche and Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes. Not Your Grandma's Meatballs, Margherita Flatbread and the Green Pea Hummus are just some of the favorites that pair wonderfully with drinks.

Monarch has also introduced brunch service on Saturdays from 2pm to 10pm. Brunch items include Chef's Quiche Du Jour, Bacon Wrapped Egg & Cheddar Muffin with Applewood Smoked Bacon, Aged Cheddar, & Organic Eggs and Berry Stuffed French Toast. You can also go light with Seasonal Fruit Skewers or Petite Crab Cakes. Relax and enjoy a weekend meal.

Monarch is located at 71 West 35th Street in the heart of Midtown. You can also book the venue for groups and small parties. For more information, visit: http://addisongroupnyc.com/.

Photo: Courtesy of Monarch Rooftop Lounge