You’re standing on the 18th floor. The elevator doors slide open, and suddenly, the frantic, horn-honking chaos of Thompson Street feels a million miles away. Honestly, finding a rooftop bar in Manhattan that doesn't feel like a tourist trap or a frat party is getting harder every year. But JIMMY at James SoHo remains a weirdly perfect anomaly. It’s sophisticated. It’s got that 1970s conversation pit vibe. Most importantly, it has a pool that actually looks like a pool and not a glorified bathtub.
New York City rooftops come and go. They rebrand. They close for "renovations" and never reopen. JIMMY has stayed remarkably consistent since it opened inside The James New York – SoHo.
While the rest of the neighborhood changed around it—boutiques turning into big-box stores and back again—this spot kept its edge. It’s the kind of place where you can actually see the Freedom Tower and the Empire State Building without having to crane your neck over a crowd of influencers.
The Design Aesthetic is Pure 70s Glamour
Most people walk in and immediately notice the decor. It’s moody. It’s dark. Designer David Rockwell (of the Rockwell Group) leaned heavily into a vintage New York aesthetic that feels more like a private lounge than a hotel bar. Think blue velvet, charred wood floors, and modular furniture that encourages you to actually talk to the person next to you. It’s a far cry from the glass-and-steel minimalism that makes so many modern bars feel like an Apple Store that happens to serve gin.
The transition from indoor to outdoor is seamless.
During the winter, the interior is cozy. It’s warm. You’ve got these massive floor-to-ceiling windows that keep the skyline in your face even when it's ten degrees outside. But when the weather breaks? That's when the magic happens. The glass doors slide back, and the deck becomes the place to be. It’s narrow, which keeps it intimate. You aren't wandering through a sea of tables; you're navigating a curated social space.
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That Famous Pool and the "Dip" Culture
Let’s talk about the pool. It’s iconic for a reason.
Now, look, you aren't going to be doing laps here. It’s a "plunge" pool. But on a humid July afternoon in lower Manhattan, being able to sit on the edge with your feet in the water while holding a cocktail is a top-tier experience. There are rules, obviously. During the day, it's mostly for hotel guests. But on weekends, the pool parties at JIMMY are legendary. They’re selective. They’re stylish. They’re exactly what you imagine when you think of "Summer in the City."
Interestingly, the pool area provides one of the few 360-degree views in SoHo. You get the grit of the neighboring rooftops mixed with the shimmering glass of the Financial District. It’s a perspective you just can’t get from the street level.
What’s Actually on the Menu?
Cocktails here aren't cheap. Let’s be real. You’re paying for the view and the atmosphere as much as the booze. But the quality is high. They focus on seasonal ingredients and "garden-to-glass" mixes. Often, you'll find herbs like mint or basil that were sourced locally or even grown on-site.
The Signature Sips
- The Grilled Pineapple Margarita: This isn't your standard dive bar marg. It’s smoky. It’s spicy. The char on the pineapple adds a depth that balances the tequila perfectly.
- Legal in NY: A nod to the changing landscape of the city, often featuring herbal notes that mimic certain "green" aromas without actually containing them.
- Classic Spritzes: They do the basics well. Sometimes a simple Aperol Spritz is all you need when the sun is setting over the Hudson.
Food-wise, don't expect a full five-course meal. It’s bar bites. Small plates. Think along the lines of truffle fries, high-end sliders, or flatbreads. It’s enough to keep you going while you’re drinking, but if you’re looking for a steak dinner, you’re better off heading downstairs to one of the many restaurants in SoHo or the hotel’s own dining options.
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Navigating the Crowd and the Door Policy
Here is where people get tripped up. JIMMY is popular. Like, really popular.
If you show up at 10 PM on a Friday with a group of six guys, you’re probably not getting in. It’s just the reality of Manhattan nightlife. The door policy is "smart casual," but in SoHo terms, that means you should look like you put some effort in. No gym clothes. No flip-flops. Honestly, just look like you belong in a 1970s lounge.
The best move is always to go early. Sunset is the sweet spot. You get to watch the light change over the city, and you usually beat the massive line that starts forming later in the night. If you’re staying at The James, you get priority, which is a massive perk. For everyone else, reservations are highly recommended if you want a guaranteed seat.
The Logistics: Location and Access
The entrance isn't through the main hotel lobby. You’ve got to go around to the side. There’s a dedicated elevator for the bar. It adds to that "secret" feeling, even though everyone knows where it is.
Located at 15 Thompson Street, it’s perfectly positioned. You’re close enough to the Holland Tunnel that it’s easy for visitors, but tucked far enough into SoHo that it feels like part of the neighborhood. The walk from the A/C/E or the N/R subway stations is quick. Just be prepared for the cobblestones if you’re wearing heels. They are brutal.
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Misconceptions About JIMMY
People often think it’s just a "party" spot. While the weekend pool parties are high energy, the weekday vibe is surprisingly chill. It’s a great place for a business meeting or a quiet date. I've seen people there on a Tuesday afternoon just working on their laptops (though I wouldn't recommend that during peak hours).
Another myth? That it’s only for the young crowd. You’ll see a real mix here. Fashion industry veterans, European tourists, and locals who have been coming since it opened in 2010. It’s one of the few places that has managed to age gracefully. It doesn't feel "old," it feels established.
Why it Still Matters in 2026
In a city that reinvents itself every six months, JIMMY at James SoHo is a staple. It represents a specific era of New York design that holds up. It hasn't chased every passing trend. It knows what it is: a high-end, vibey, rooftop sanctuary.
Whether you’re there for the pool, the cocktails, or just to stare at the skyline until your eyes hurt, it delivers. It’s expensive, yes. It can be crowded, sure. But standing out on that deck when the city lights start to flicker on? That’s a New York moment that never gets old.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Visit
- Book a Mid-Week Reservation: If you want the views without the elbow-to-elbow crowds, Tuesday or Wednesday around 5:30 PM is your best bet.
- Check the Weather: The outdoor deck is the main draw. While the inside is nice, the experience is 50% better when you can be outside. If rain is in the forecast, the indoor space fills up fast.
- Dress Up, Don't Dress Down: Even if you think you can pull off the "scruffy" look, the door staff at JIMMY usually favors those who look polished. A sharp jacket or a nice dress goes a long way here.
- Stay at the Hotel for Perks: If you’re visiting from out of town, staying at The James New York – SoHo gives you much easier access to the bar and the pool during guest-only hours.