Times Square isn’t exactly known for subtlety—but Highball is making a serious case for sophistication in the heart of the chaos. The signature restaurant and cocktail lounge inside Tempo by Hilton Times Square has officially revamped its entire food and beverage program, rolling out a new all-day dining concept designed to attract both hotel guests and New Yorkers looking for an elevated escape above the crowds.
Perched atop the iconic Palace Theatre—where the upcoming Broadway production The Lost Boys is set to debut—Highball is leaning into its prime location with a refreshed culinary identity led by Chef de Cuisine Desmond Lim. The goal is clear: shake up expectations of what a hotel restaurant can be, and deliver a destination-worthy experience.
One of the biggest upgrades comes from behind the bar. Developed in collaboration with acclaimed mixologist Derek Brown, the new cocktail program is split into two distinct menus: “Spirited” and “Free-Spirited.” The traditional cocktail list features inventive drinks like the Pink Grapefruit Club, Get Figgy with It, and Mezcal Me Maybe, while the zero-proof lineup mirrors those same flavor profiles using premium non-alcoholic spirits from brands like Lyre’s and Fluère. It’s a smart move that caters to both cocktail lovers and the growing sober-curious crowd without sacrificing complexity.
There’s also a playful twist on classics with a dedicated Old Fashioned menu. Variations like The Spice Route, The Orchard, and The Peanut Butter push the boundaries of the traditional drink while still honoring its roots.
On the food side, Highball is going all in on versatility. The new all-day dining menu ranges from elevated starters like Tuna Tartare with crispy rice and Nonna’s Homemade Meatballs to comfort-driven mains such as Pan-Seared Salmon, Steak Frites, and French Dip Roast Beef. Lighter options like Gnocchi with cherry tomatoes round out a menu designed to work whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or settling in for a full meal.
Breakfast is equally ambitious, offering everything from a Fine Herb Scramble and Breakfast Burrito to Avocado Toast and a Halloumi-packed Breakfast Bowl—plus a lineup of bakery staples for those on the go.
But what truly sets Highball apart is its expansive terrace, creating a rare open-air dining experience in the middle of Times Square. Whether it’s pre-theater drinks, late-night cocktails, or a relaxed meetup above the city’s buzz, Highball is positioning itself as more than just a hotel amenity—it’s aiming to become a go-to destination.