It's on 5 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- Cost$200+ per person for pool
- Address180 Orchard St 15th floor, New York, NY 10002
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
Mr. Purple is named after the notorious Lower East Side gang leader, Mr. Purple. This vibrant rooftop hotspot pays homage to the neighborhood’s colorful history.
The bar itself has a sleek and modern design, with ample seating and a stylish indoor-outdoor space. Originally a clothing factory in the early 20th century, the building has been transformed into a chic hotel, with Mr. Purple serving as its crown jewel.
The Manhattan rooftop bar has a pool, but it comes with a hefty $200+ per person price tag. What stands out is the drink menu offers strong cocktails served by friendly bartenders. The dress code is “fashionable,” but smart casual is generally acceptable.
I suggest avoiding sneakers, sports gear, or torn clothes. Due to its popularity, reservations are strongly recommended for a hassle-free experience, although weekday walk-ins before sunset are possible.
Mr. Purple sits on top of Hotel Indigo and the views of downtown Manhattan are legitimately gorgeous. This is the place you bring someone you’re trying to impress. (More date night ideas here, by the way.)
Their happy hour deals aren’t as aggressive as the dives on this list, but the rooftop experience makes up for it. Expect to pay more like $10-12 for cocktails during off-peak hours. Still cheaper than their normal prices, which can be $18-20.
Fair warning. This is a scene-y spot. You will see influencers taking photos. You will hear someone say “content” as a verb. But the skyline doesn’t care about any of that, and neither should you.
Mr. Purple, located on the 15th floor of Hotel Indigo, is one of the best rooftop bars in the Lower East Side. The atmosphere is lively and opulent, with a surprisingly spacious setting. They have a pool, but it comes with a hefty $200+ per person price tag. The drink menu mainly offers classic cocktails, served strong by friendly bartenders. The dress code is “fashionable,” but smart casual is generally acceptable. I suggest avoiding sneakers, sports gear, or torn clothes. Due to its popularity, reservations are strongly recommended for a hassle-free experience, although weekday walk-ins before sunset are possible.
Mr. Purple on the Lower East Side is fun and lively and has a great happy hour.
15th floor, Hotel Indigo, 180 Orchard Street, Lower East Side
Mr. Purple has good views, a pool in summer, and DJ vibes that can go either way depending on what you’re looking for. On a Tuesday evening it’s a perfectly pleasant rooftop with downtown views and strong drinks. On a Saturday night it turns into a full club situation with a line down the block and a cover charge.
If you’re planning a date night in NYC, come on a weeknight. Cocktails are $18-$22. The indoor/outdoor setup means you’re not completely at the mercy of the weather. And the Lower East Side location means you can actually go somewhere interesting afterward instead of wandering through Midtown.
My honest take. Skip the weekends unless you genuinely want the party scene. The views deserve better than being blocked by someone’s Instagram shoot.