NYC: 5 cocktails to start your summer off right

It’s the first day of summer, but we can agree the heat already made itself at home. So whether you’re in need of a quick (and refreshing) refuge from the heat, or an excuse to look fab at a pop-up rooftop bar, check out the summer cocktails we’re thirsty for.

Huckleberry Bar
588 Grand St., Brooklyn

Even the name invokes images of summer. This Brooklyn spot is known for its adventurous cocktails, nightlife scene and lush backyard. For the daring sort, try the Sly Fox, with Denizen rum, coconut liqueur, lime juice habanero syrup and Pechaud’s bitters. On the refreshing end, the Article 57 features a citrus-infused vodka, lemon and ginger juices, simple syrup and a splash of Q tonic. Still too much? The bartenders also whip up a mean (and classic) Pimm’s cup for when you want to go old school.

Grand Banks
Pier 25, Hudson River Park at North Moore Street

If a staycation is what you’re after, check out Grand Banks, a supremely cool raw bar and restaurant on the historic schooner Sherman Zwicker. Docked at Pier 25 in Tribeca, the wooden boat dates back to 1942 and boasts skyline views and perfect sunset views. Pair your wild-caught, sustainably harvested oysters with one of Grand Banks’ many cocktails. We’ve been eyeing the Revolucion, with vodka, mint, fresh-squeezed lime and Angostura bitters.

Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar
Conrad New York, 102 North End Ave., Battery Park

Bubbles and popsicles? Count us in. Loopy Doopy’s winning combination is a bit unconventional, but we can’t think of anything that personifies summer better. Start with a fruity People’s Pop ice pop, stick it in a wine glass and pour chilled prosecco or sparkling rosé on top. The result: a boozy popsicle and an Instagram-worthy drink. Plus, you’ll get stunning views of the Hudson River, Statue of Liberty and the harbor.

Sabbia
200 Fifth Ave., Flatiron

What would brunch be without its essential go-to beverage? Nothing, that’s what. Take your Sunday tradition to the Italian Rivera via Eataly’s newest al fresco spot, Sabbia, which only opened in April. There, indulge on La Puttanesca, a housemadeBloody Mary with capers, olives, lemon and chili oil. The more daring can top with an anchovy salt and lemon zest rim.

The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn
590 Ocean Ave., Newport, Rhode Island

If you are looking for an escape from the city or find yourself up north this summer, we highly recommend The Lawn — a quintessential New England spot overlooking Narragansett Bay. While you’re donning seersucker, lounging in Adirondack chairs anddining al fresco, be sure to order a couple not-so-traditional cocktails. The Guilty Pineapple, with mezcal, pineapple, jalapeno and lime, or the Copa Verda, with Patron Silver, lime, agave and a thyme-salt rim are sure to liven up the mood.