NYC Winter Brunch Escapes

If you miss eating outside in Manhattan during the winter, you may want to consider escaping to a rooftop eatery far above the snow and that much closer to the sunshine and Vitamin D. It's like taking the time for a deep breath, that pause as you take in where you live from a new perspective.

The "Upstairs" lounge and restaurant at the Kimberly Hotel in Midtown East is 30 stories above the streets of the city and features a retractable glass ceiling for year-round panoramic views of the Chrysler Building. Inside, there's striking black-and-white decor, with vintage style strung bulbs hanging overhead and lots of greenery to feel like you're dining al fresco. I visited on a 28 degree afternoon, but with the sunbeams shining through the glassed-in enclosure, it easily felt like spring as I fished inside my bag for my sunglasses. Their Winter Jazz Brunch, featuring the Logan Evan Thomas Group, a three-piece jazz band comprised of a keyboardist, bass player and drummer will run till 3/17. Do try their Brioche French Toast with Blackberry Compote or Kobe Burger with White Cheddar, Avocado & Grilled Onions. Mimosas and Bloody Marys are included with some of the entrees, but their seasonal cocktail "The Glazier" with fresh strawberries is worth an order. Or sip their champagne cocktail, "The Chrysler" while looking out at the building that it's named after.

Other NYC rooftop brunch options:

• Hotel Gansevort's rooftop bar and lounge, "Plunge" serves lunch beginning at noon and offers 360-degree views of the Hudson River and Manhattan, indoor and outdoor terrace seating and a fully landscaped garden. Patrons most often order off the sushi roll section, while desserts include cheesecake lollipops!