An Opulent Cocktail Lounge Perched Atop Beekman Tower

The idea here was to create an “illuminating jewel box immersed in the sky.” One where you can sip activated charcoal-bourbon-infused mezcal cocktails in a space Sinatra, Zappa and Davis used to frequent.

A good idea as any.

It’s called Ophelia, and it’s an opulent rooftop lounge perched atop the historic Beekman Tower, opening this coming Monday in Midtown East. 

The place is steeped in history, and they want you to know that. Built in 1928, the lounge has kept and restored much of the original architecture (a lot of marble, glass and exposed brick), complementing it with deep maroon velvet seating and the occasional palm plant. 

Begin at the bar with a Purple Tuxedo (that’s a vibrant lavender cocktail of gin, brenninvie, velvet falernum, montanaro bianco, absinthe, plum bitters and garnished with edible golden flakes) and perhaps some oysters and/or seared foie gras with dried cherries. They’ve curated some interesting oddities under the glass bar top—so you may find yourself staring at a 1930s tarot card, overhearing a conversation sparked by an antique fork or complimenting a vintage flapper hat. You may; you may not.

When you’re ready to roam, take your drink and mosey on through the outer terrace, soaking in those East River/skyline views through the ornate 13-foot windows. It’d be a pity not to. 

And that just about covers it.

Have a look at said views, lavender cocktails and other things of visual interest right here.

Ophelia at Beekman Tower, opening Monday, 3 Mitchell Pl (at 1st Ave), see the slideshow