"This bar has views of the Atlantic just a few blocks from the beach, with an indoor space on one side and an outdoor terrace on the other. We’d tolerate mediocre rooftop fare in exchange for the ocean view—but the food and drink at this Rockaway Hotel spot are actually great. A mason jar of the fattest sardines we’ve seen in a long time screams “by the sea,” and there's also shrimp cocktail, and clam pizza. You’d think a rooftop by the beach would turn into Spring Break pretty quickly, but this place remains a calm, beachside spot, even when they turn the music up and the bar fills up towards sunset. If you're looking for upscale beach town charm—with a seafood tower and a bottle of wine—head to Margie’s at the same hotel." - willa moore, molly fitzpatrick, neha talreja