Eataly's rooftop bar and restaurant La Birreria has been transformed from an Italian Alps theme to the beachy Sabbia, with a coastal Italian theme. Buoyed ropes, parasols, and life preservers dangle from the ceiling; while alluring vintage-style posters on the walls depict splashy spots like Taormina in Sicily and urge the viewer to "Travel Italia." Signs throughout the space point to seaside destinations like Sorrento and Cinque Terre, or advertise beaches where bathing suits are optional. Cheeky Mario!
The menu's been revamped to highlight seafood and other coastal fare, including a charming oyster bar constructed to look like a little boat. There's an impressively large Fritto Misto ($24), too, plus Fusilli with squid, shrimp and cockles ($21) and Grilled Swordfish stuffed with breadcrumbs ($27). There are beef, chicken and vegetarian options as well.
Depending on the day, there may be a spritz cart weaving its way between tables where you can design your own cocktail. Otherwise, they have their own versions by the carafe ($20) including one made with Flor Prosecco, mint, cucumber and Sorrento lemon juice. Fresh fruits and vegetables are highlighted as well, like the Hoppy Hour ($15) made with Absolut Citron Vodka, fresh carrot juice, lemon and a ginger-honey syrup.
Sabbia opens tonight, Friday April 29th, at 5 p.m. with tabletop corn hole in a "cabana" with beach chairs and a faux fire pit. After today, it opens daily at 11:30 a.m. until midnight (Thursday - Saturday) or 11 p.m. (Sunday - Wednesday).
Rooftop, 200 5th Avenue, (212) 937-8910; website
