José Andrés Unveils His Newest Gem, Nubeluz, 500 Feet Above NYC

Serving Up Delicious Cocktails and Stunning Views in a Jewel Box Setting Atop the New Ritz Carlton NoMad

Every time I plan a trip to New York, I research where to stay, where to eat, and what to do as it the city changes as fast as the fall leaves this time of year. On my most recent visit, I couldn’t wait to check out the newest property in the Ritz Carlton portfolio, the Ritz Carlton Nomad– a combination of modern elegance with an artsy vibe.

I had heard that award-winning restauranteur and humanitarian Chef Jose Andres’ newest restaurant Zaytinya had just opened in August to rave reviews, so a visit to this new hotspot was at the top of my list – along with a visit to the restaurant’s equally buzzy sister venue, Nubeluz, the Ritz Carlton Nomad’s stunning new rooftop cocktail bar.

Situated on the ground floor of the hotel, Zaytinya is a play on the Turkish word for olive oil. It offers a myriad of dishes inspired by Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese cuisines in a modern and eclectic setting. Each dish was generous and made to share, but we found that we were all competing to get the last bite – the food was that good.

After dinner we excitedly made our way to the much anticipated Nubeluz. When the elevator doors open to the glass-enclosed lounge, you feel as if you are literally on top of the world. Developed by New York-based Flag Luxury Group, this lightbox in the sky was envisioned by globally-renowned architect Rafael Viñoly. Named for the marriage of Spanish words “nube” for cloud and “luz” for light, Nubeluz features breathtaking 270-degree views along with some of the best and most creative cocktails in the city. It doesn’t get more iconic than the New York City skyline, in which you will feel fully immersed during a visit to the hottest new cocktail destination in town. As Chef José Andrés said, “Nubeluz draws energy and inspiration from the great city of New York, which completely surrounds you here 500 feet in the air.”

The vibe at Nubeluz is effortlessly elegant thanks to decor by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, which heightens the experience with a combination of reflective surfaces, indulgent textiles, modern materiality and life-enhancing lighting to create a modern and sophisticated setting any time of day or night.

As the day shifts to night, you can appreciate how attention to details like back-lit velum panels, mirrored surfaces, glittering textiles, modern table lamps and onyx bar tops all create the feeling of a glowing jewel box highlighting the hues of blues and pinks throughout the space. Taking in the panoramic city views from either of the two outdoor terraces flanking the main room is an experience not to be missed.

Its “Cocktail Innovator” Miguel Lancha, the creative force behind Washington D.C.’s acclaimed Barmini by José Andrés, and a finalist for the 2022 James Beard Foundation Outstanding Bar Program Award, has crafted a cocktail program worthy of the views with the perfect blend of heritage and innovation.

Perhaps the most show-stopping drink at Nubeluz is the Floral Cloud, made with Fords Gin, lemon, maraschino, crème de violette, and (poured atop) a heavenly hibiscus-rose-orange blossom aromatic cloud that spills out, enticing you to take a sip. For a heartier option, the Foggy Hill is another aptly named knockout made with Del Maguey Vida mezcal, Yzaguirre 1884 Gran Reserva vermouth, Cynar, and Aperol, coupled with an orange-thyme aromatic cloud.

To complement these celestial drinks are beautiful light bites like oysters with agua chile, cucumber, and cilantro or José’s potato chips with labneh, salmon roe, za’atar, avgotaraho, lemon zest, and fresh herbs.

“Bringing the magic of our bars and lounges to the heart of this iconic city skyline is a meaningful milestone as we grow in New York City.” Sam Bakhshandehpour, President of José Andrés Group. The restaurant group is known for their incredible food and drink – and neither Zaytinya nor Nubeluz disappointed on either front. The service, the food, and the ambiance were spectacular. As one might expect, reservations for these venues are highly recommended – in fact, the exclusive Nubeluz is only accessible to those with reservations and to hotel guests.