Where to Eat and Drink on July 4 in NYC

Given America’s current political climate, you might be on the hunt for ways to give back on Independence Day. Enter Boqueria. The Spanish tapas bar plans to donate ten percent of the proceeds from its red-, white-, and blue-sprinkled churro sundae sales to RAICES (the Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services). The organization helps unite separated immigrant children with their families.

Once you’ve ascended to the top of The Crown, you’ll never want to leave. The roof boasts a 360-degree panorama of Manhattan—perfect for your Instagram feed—plus an unmatched view of the fireworks. The $40 general admission tickets include a one-hour open vodka bar, along with one cocktail on the house.

Take the A train all the way to the Rockaways for a hint of salty air and to stick your toes in the sand. Bungalow Bar is a waterfront bar, and to commemorate Independence Day, it’s offering a red, white, and blue frozen slushie. Grab a drink (or two), soak up the view, and dance all night with the live DJ.

There certainly won’t be buildings blocking your view of the fireworks 100 floors up at One World Observatory. Atop Manhattan’s tallest building, festivities begin at 8pm with a two-hour open bar and all-American foods like hot dogs and pretzels. Get your tickets here.

For those who like to keep their options open, several of the tenants at Gotham West Market are cooking up some specials. At Seamore’s, cool off with a red, white, and blue adult snow cone (blood orange, coconut, blue curacao, and rum) for $7.60. Choza Taqueria is launching an all-day taco happy hour (two tacos for $5), and any purchase of a noodle dish at Ivan Ramen arrives with a free bun and drink.

Post up at Tacocina, Danny Meyer’s newest Mexican venture at the recently remodeled Domino Park. For $100 per person, you’ll be rewarded with unlimited food and drinks for four hours (think margaritas, rosé, chips & guac, and a slew of tacos), plus an unparalleled view of the East River fireworks. Buy tickets here.

If you’re not into the whole barbecue thing, you can level up at Brooklyn Cider House’s pig roast in Bushwick. From 12-5pm, feast on roast suckling pig sandwiches, house-made cider, beer, and frozen drinks. Eating will take place on the outdoor deck, accompanied by music and games.

Catch a glimpse of the Macy’s fireworks while you munch on Refinery Rooftop’s $16 foot-long dog. The all-beef hot dog is topped with avocado relish, shards of crispy bacon, pickled red chilies, and a side of kettle chips. You’d be remiss not to wash down the dog with a glass of bright pink Frosé.

Patriotism knows no bounds at Boulton & Watt, the pub restaurant on Houston Street. The kitchen is cooking up a $16, truly American special: Choose from a burger (veggie burgers are also available) or two specialty hot dogs, which come with house-made pickles and a heavy pour of draft beer.

For those really looking to get in on the action, station yourself literally under the fireworks at Brooklyn Barge. This floating bar will offer a family-style BBQ featuring things like grilled prime striploins and potato salad, along with plenty of cold drinks. Tickets start at $180.

Head to Drexler’s for a free (yes, free!) Fourth of July barbecue. All you have to do is buy a Jack Daniels cocktail, and in return you’ll be provided with either a free hot dog or a slider. The more drinks you buy, the more meat you’ll get. The party starts at 4pm on July 4, with happy hour specials lasting all night.

Since 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge opened in 2017, it has consistently delivered some of the most interesting hotel art around. The stylish, eco-conscious hotel tapped local artists to create works inspired by Brooklyn Bridge’s surrounding waterfront area. An avalanche of obsidian rocks tied with hand-dyed rope, a nod to the nearby docks, and a living plant wall are among the hotel’s inventive works highlighting Brooklyn’s nature.