Unlike the speakeasy’s moody underground setting, the rooftop offers a bright, open atmosphere with sweeping views of the city. An indoor lounge seats about 45 while an open-air deck shaded by a pergola can host roughly 60 guests.
The approach to drinks also shifts upstairs. While the basement bar is known for intricate, hand-crafted cocktails, the rooftop leans into a more casual style. Guests will find approachable cocktails, frozen drinks, and a wider beer selection, creating a laid-back space designed for daytime and evening relaxation. Food is not served on-site, but visitors are encouraged to bring takeout from surrounding restaurants.
Co-owner and general manager Andy Ferguson, working with building owner Andy Chafoulias, invested close to half a million dollars into the project, transforming the former La Vetta and H3 Rooftop space into a fresh downtown destination. Ferguson said the goal was to create something different from the basement speakeasy. He described the rooftop as a place that feels light, social, and easygoing, designed to help bring new energy to downtown’s after-dark scene.
From the first guests enjoying mocktails and frozen drinks to the lively conversations on the deck, the rooftop opening underscored a renewed sense of vibrancy in the city. With its elevated perspective, both literally and figuratively, Bitter & Pour’s rooftop is poised to become one of Rochester’s most sought-after spots for evening drinks and weekend gatherings.
This article was made with assistance from AI