Tempo by Hilton Times Square is making a major push to redefine what travelers expect from hotel dining with a revamped food and cocktail experience at its rooftop restaurant, Highball.
Perched above the historic Palace Theatre in the middle of Times Square, Highball has rolled out a new all-day dining concept led by Chef de Cuisine Desmond Lim, aiming to attract not just hotel guests but also New Yorkers looking for a pre-theatre dinner spot or post-show cocktail destination.
The relaunch comes as Times Square continues evolving beyond its longtime reputation for overpriced tourist restaurants and chain-heavy dining. Highball is betting that elevated comfort food, creative cocktails, and a prime Broadway-adjacent location can help it stand out in one of Manhattan’s most competitive hospitality districts.
The updated menu blends globally inspired small plates with hearty mains designed for both casual visitors and theatergoers rushing to nearby productions. Offerings include Tuna Tartare with crispy rice, Nonna’s Homemade Meatballs, Truffle Parmesan Fries, Steak Frites, Pan-Seared Salmon, and French Dip Roast Beef sandwiches.
Breakfast service has also expanded, featuring dishes like avocado toast, breakfast burritos, Fine Herb Scramble plates, and a Breakfast Bowl with halloumi.
The cocktail program, developed in collaboration with acclaimed mixologist Derek Brown, includes both traditional cocktails and zero-proof alternatives designed to mirror the same flavor profiles using nonalcoholic spirits from Lyre’s and Fluère.
Among the signature drinks are the Pink Grapefruit Club, Matcha Made in Heaven, Mezcal Me Maybe, and Get Figgy with It. Highball has also introduced an Old Fashioned-focused menu with twists like The Spice Route and The Peanut Butter.
One of the venue’s biggest selling points may be its sprawling outdoor terrace overlooking Times Square, offering visitors a less chaotic way to experience the neighborhood while remaining steps from Broadway theaters and major attractions.
The hotel is also positioning itself as a practical option for travelers looking to save money while staying in the center of Manhattan. With Broadway, shopping, restaurants, and major tourist sites all within walking distance, guests can reduce transportation costs while still staying in one of the city’s busiest entertainment hubs.
As New York’s hotel scene becomes increasingly competitive, Highball’s refresh signals a growing effort by hotels to turn onsite restaurants into standalone dining destinations rather than simple guest conveniences.