All Ado About July: Restaurant Openings, 4th of July Fun & Theatre!
- JAHLEAH SANTIAGO
- 5 days ago
- 9 min read
We are moving through the year at the speed of light and before the month all but slips past you - I wanted to get you up to date on NYC's July events! Consider this your mid-summer briefing on all of the epic forecasted events and openings across the city. From the highly anticipated arrival of Northern Chinese-style dumplings making their Manhattan debut, to buzzed-about Off-Broadway premieres and covetable pop-ups, these are the moments defining New York’s cultural mood board this July. Fun things to do in NYC
The 2025 Broadway Bound Theatre Festival and Fun things to do in nyc
The 2025 BBTF returns this summer with an ambitious slate of new works that span genres, cultures, and eras. From a sleek cruise ship thriller starring Brazilian screen star Marco Pigossi to a sweeping musical about Einstein and Indian physicist Satyendra Bose, this season pushes theatrical boundaries. Highlights include Making Ends Meet, a sharp-witted musical comedy about suburban gigolos; Beyond Perfection, a dystopian love story set in a government-run marriage experiment; and Ghost Writer, a gripping pre-Civil War drama exploring the buried truths of human trafficking. With a lineup of both musicals and plays—ranging from deeply personal reckonings to high-concept political allegories—BBTF continues to spotlight bold new voices shaping the future of theater.
Romer Hell’s Kitchen Love Thy Gayborhood: Miss Hell’s Kitchen | Thursday, July 24 at 8PM
Romer Neighborhood Hotels and Miss Hell’s Kitchen 2024 winner Sabel Scities have teamed up for Love Thy Gayborhood, a five-month drag residency lighting up So & So’s Neighborhood Piano Bar. This dazzling series brings local stars and special guests center stage for an unmissable celebration of queer artistry. Guests can enhance the experience with the exclusive Love Thy Gayborhood hotel package, which includes accommodations and supports the Ali Forney Center with a portion of proceeds.
Sailing with The Mark Select Dates Throughout July & August
Set sail in timeless style aboard The Mark Sailboat by Jean-Georges—a meticulously restored 1921 Herreshoff vessel offering a two-hour cruise around Manhattan from Tribeca’s North Cove Marina. This luxurious journey includes flowing champagne, a curated selection of wines and seasonal bites from The Mark Restaurant, like chilled oysters, Gulf shrimp, and Maine lobster rolls. It’s a quintessential New York summer moment, complete with sweeping skyline views and unparalleled elegance at sea.
The Times Square EDITION Moonrise at Paradise Club | July 12, 18, 19, 25, 26
Paradise Club’s Moonrise returns this July with a spellbinding performance conceived by celebrated artist Lara Jacobs Rigolo. Inspired by 13 ancient moon goddesses, the production blends dance, aerial artistry, vocals, and visual poetry for an immersive night of theatrical wonder. The experience includes a seasonal multi-course dinner by Michelin-starred Chef John Fraser, with cocktails tailored to each moon goddess. It’s a dazzling fusion of fine dining and performance that redefines nightlife at the EDITION.
PUBLIC Hotel Happy Hour at THE ROOF | Monday to Friday, 5PM – 7PM
Elevate your golden hour at THE ROOF, PUBLIC Hotel’s rooftop oasis in the Lower East Side. With sweeping skyline views, signature cocktails (don’t miss the Frosé), and Asian-inspired bar bites like Summer Spears and Sweet & Sour Cauliflower, it’s a sunset happy hour made for summer. Whether you’re winding down from the workday or gearing up for a night out, THE ROOF is the perfect perch.
If you're looking for a spot to grab a drink any night of the week - check out our Guide to Gorgeous Cocktails & NYC Bars.
New Restaurant Openings Fun things to do in nyc
Dumpling Xi – Upper East Side
Now open in the East Village, Dumpling Xi brings its celebrated Northern Chinese dumpling tradition to Manhattan for the very first time. A household name in China with over 800 locations across 40+ cities, the brand’s latest outpost follows the success of its U.S. debut in Flushing earlier this year—and marks a major milestone in its international expansion. Founded in 2002 in Hegang, Heilongjiang, Dumpling Xi is built on the philosophy of “freshly rolled, freshly stuffed, freshly made.” Every dumpling is made to order (never frozen), served piping hot, and enjoyed exclusively in-house—no takeout or delivery available—encouraging diners to slow down and savor. The East Village location offers a streamlined, fast-casual dining experience focused on quality and comfort, with a condiment bar for personalizing each bite. The menu centers around the brand’s signature dumplings, including standout options like Shrimp Fish Roe Pork, Celery Pork, and Zucchini Egg Dried Shrimp—all available boiled or fried. Guests can also explore rich, regional flavors with Red Chili Oil Dumplings, Braised Neck Bone Pots, and Hot Pots in spicy-sour or pinto bean broths. Cold sides like Lotus Root Noodles and Beef with Wood Ear Mushrooms round out the offering, while desserts include comforting bowls of Red Bean and Black Sesame Soup with rice balls. With no frills and no shortcuts, Dumpling Xi delivers a deeply authentic dumpling experience, now steps from Union Square.
The Mark Clam Bar – Upper East Side
Now open seven days a week for the first time, The Mark Clam Bar returns for the season with daily lunch and dinner service from 12–10 PM. Tucked just outside The Mark Hotel, this charming seafood stand—conceived by Jean-Georges in collaboration with Caviar Kaspia—blends breezy East Coast nostalgia with Upper East Side elegance. White tablecloths meet lobster rolls, oysters, and clams, all served streetside with a side of people-watching. While the seaside vibe leans casual, the offerings are anything but. Add a dollop of Caviar Kaspia’s signature roe to elevate the experience—or sip something cold while taking in the polished but playful setting. Previously open Thursday through Sunday, The Mark Clam Bar now welcomes guests daily for an effortless escape in the city.
Aquarelle – East Village
Now open at 47 Avenue B, Aquarelle has debuted its stunning transformation into a 200-seat, multi-level restaurant and lounge in the heart of the East Village. Helmed by restaurateur Marcus Andrew (of Le Souk legacy) and nightlife impresario Baris Koroglu, the venue reimagines the former space as a deep-sea dining escape. Designed to feel like a luxurious submarine, Aquarelle’s interiors shimmer with aquatic motifs—think gilded mermaids, barnacle-textured mirrors, octopus murals, and taxidermied sailfish—all lit beneath soaring skylights that transition the space from sunlit brunches to sultry nighttime affairs. On the menu: a Mediterranean seafood-forward lineup featuring raw bar favorites like Faroe Island salmon crudo, shrimp and scallop carpaccio, tuna tartare, and bright ceviches. A marble raw bar anchors the room, while the lower-level lounge pulses with late-night energy thanks to DJ-led programming that begins around 11 PM on weekends. Open late six nights a week, Aquarelle offers a rare combination: a destination-worthy dinner party that evolves into a lively evening out—no Uber necessary.
The Standard Soda Shop – Meatpacking District
Now open through October 5th, The Standard High Line has introduced The Standard Soda Shop, a cheeky, retro-inspired summer pop-up located in its iconic plaza. Channeling classic Americana with a downtown twist, the outdoor setup features an 18-foot circular bar, striped umbrellas, and the feel of a roadside diner reimagined for New York. The menu spotlights Moonburger’s signature #9 smashburger meal, alongside playful house-made sodas, frozen cocktails, and a rotating pie-of-the-day DJ booth.
An Airstream scoops cones in collaboration with Van Leeuwen, offering a sweet nod to summer nostalgia. No reservations are required, making this an ideal spot for spontaneous bites, burgers, or post-High Line ice cream under the sun.
Where to Catch Fireworks
This July 4th, the 49th edition of Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks®, returns to the Brooklyn Bridge and East River with a skyline-shaking display of more than 80,000 shells, state-of-the-art projection mapping, and a star-powered lineup including the Jonas Brothers, Lenny Kravitz, Ava Max, and Trisha Yearwood—hosted by Academy Award-winner Ariana DeBose. The fireworks begin at 9:25 PM, but the cultural spark starts well before then. For some there’s a new interest in honoring the spirit of independence—not just as a nod to history, but as a way to reconnect with the ideals that have shaped the nation. Whether you're planning to wave the flag, wear your stars and stripes, or simply join in on the festivities, here are the best ways to celebrate across the city—with style, substance, and a little fireworks flair.
33 Hotel NYC Rooftop Party | Seaport District
Celebrate the Fourth of July in elevated style at the 33 Hotel NYC Rooftop Party, set at 33 Peck Slip in the heart of the Seaport District. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge from the hotel’s 6th and 7th-floor terraces. The event includes a three-hour open bar (7–10 PM) and gourmet appetizer stations, with general admission and reserved lounge seating options priced between $249–$299. Terrace access is standing room only and available on a first-come basis. Guests must be 21+ to consume alcohol; minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Brooklyn Block Party at Skyline Drive-In
Celebrate Independence Day at the Brooklyn Block Party Block Party, hosted by Project 91 at Skyline Drive-In (1 Noble Street, Greenpoint, Brooklyn). Taking place from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., this sprawling waterfront celebration offers stunning East River views with the Manhattan skyline as the ultimate backdrop. Dance to live sets by renowned DJs Bakermat, Chromeo, and Shallou while enjoying yard games, six+ full-service bars, and a lively, all-day outdoor atmosphere. In true Fourth of July fashion, Gotham Burger Social Club will be grilling up their famous Gotham Smash burgers, alongside food truck favorites like hot dogs, soft-serve ice cream, and craft beers. With prime views of the East River fireworks and a block party vibe that spans the entire venue, this is one of the city’s must-attend events of the summer. Tickets start at $30.
Front Row Fireworks at Downtown Skyport | East River Piers
Gather your crew for Front Row Fireworks at Downtown Skyport (6 East River Piers), a family-friendly event with live DJ sets and all-ages activities. Doors open at 7 PM, with prime views of the East River’s dazzling fireworks show until 10:30 PM. Tickets start at $50, with food and drinks available for purchase throughout the night.
Cloud 9 Fireworks Cruise | Skyport Marina
Toast to the Fourth aboard the Cloud 9 Yacht, departing from Skyport Marina (2430 FDR Dr. at 23rd St). Cruise the city’s waterways while enjoying a buffet dinner, open bar, and unmatched skyline views. The yacht’s glass-enclosed main deck offers comfortable dining, while the open-air top deck brings the party with live DJ sets and front-row views of the Macy’s fireworks.
Lucille Fireworks Cruise | Skyport Marina
Celebrate with the whole family aboard The Lucille, a festive yacht cruise launching from Skyport Marina (2430 FDR Dr.). The evening includes a buffet dinner, open bar, and panoramic views of the NYC skyline capped off by Macy’s iconic fireworks. Perfect for all ages, the Lucille offers a lively yet laid-back way to ring in Independence Day.
Cornucopia Majesty Fireworks Cruise | Pier 81
Board the Cornucopia Majesty at Pier 81 (12th Ave & 41st St) for a night of fireworks, food, and full-on fun. Spanning 30,000 sq ft over three decks, this mega yacht delivers all-out views from its sky deck. Expect a buffet of All-American classics, a four-hour open bar for adults, and music from live DJs as you sail past New York’s most iconic landmarks.
Elsie Rooftop Party | Midtown
High above the city at 1412 Broadway, Elsie Rooftop’s July 4th Bash brings vintage glamour and skyline views. Inspired by the legendary hostess Elsie de Wolfe, this soirée features live DJ sets, premium cocktails, and sweeping panoramas just steps from Bryant Park.
Le Bain & The Rooftop | The Standard, High Line
Celebrate from day to night at Le Bain’s annual July 4th Bash 444. Running from 4 PM to 4 AM, the rooftop marathon includes daytime vibes from Sights & Sounds and a late-night takeover by Zillion & Friends. Expect unbeatable Hudson River views and dancing into the early morning. Entrance is free, but capacity is limited.
ART Williamsburg | Arlo Williamsburg
Celebrate from day to night (2:50 PM – 10 PM) at ART Williamsburg's Azure Fourth of July party at ART Williamsburg atop 96 Wythe Ave. With DJ sets, high-energy ambiance, and views of the Brooklyn Bridge and city fireworks, this North Brooklyn rooftop is a festive favorite. Tickets range from $45–$600.
ART SoHo | Arlo SoHo
Catch front-row views of the fireworks at the Mercer Day Party (231 Hudson St.) featuring house music, guest DJs, and summer treats like frozen mini cocktails and boozy Italian ice. Tickets range from $20–$150.
ART Midtown | Arlo Midtown
Celebrate from 7 PM to 11:30 PM at ART Midtown’s Arlo Rooftop July 4th BBQ (351 W. 38th St.) with BBQ, cocktails, an open bar (7:30–10 PM), and views of the Macy’s Fireworks Spectacular. General admission event; light seating available. Tickets from $109–$149.
Breva Brighton Beach | Coney Island
Located on the Brighton Beach boardwalk, Breva is your go-to for food, drinks, and beachside fireworks. Enjoy New American fare, an extensive vodka menu, and live music during happy hour (3–7 PM). Stay late for the Coney Island July 4th Spectacular.
Fornino | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Get ready for a 4th of July celebration like no other at Fornino’s rooftop location at Brooklyn Bridge Park's Pier 6- where unbeatable views of the NYC fireworks meet an all-out pizza party. Starting at 7PM, guests can feast on a mouthwatering spread of wood-fired antipasti packed with seafood, meats, cheeses, salumi, seasonal veggies, and house-made spreads with fresh focaccia. As the event continues, dive into a Pizza Tasting Menu featuring Chef Michael Ayoub’s greatest hits—fan-favorite pies and special creations from the past 13 years in business at Pier 6. Everyone will end the night on a sweet note with frozen treats and wood-fired s’mores just in time to catch the epic fireworks show near the water. This party will be fun, festive, and firework filled—don’t miss it! A cash bar will also be available.
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