Canary Opens New Rooftop Cocktail Roost

By Kevin Collison

Canary bistro opened its rooftop bar atop the restored 10-story Netherland Hotel building last weekend and the early reports are its new roost overlooking midtown and beyond is a hit.

“It was a whirlwind,” said co-owner Keely Edgington.

“It’s been a long time since we’ve served so many people and it went well. People loved the views, the cocktails and the service.”

The main bistro and bar opened on the first floor of what’s now a 110-unit apartment tower back in January. The historic hotel and the Monarch Storage building next door were redeveloped by Exact Partners.

Canary, 3835 Main St., is the creation of Edgington and her husband, Beau Williams. The couple also are the force behind the Julep cocktail bar in Westport.

For decades, the old Netherland was known as Hawthorn Plaza and was a prominent blighting influence on the surrounding 39th and Main area. Now, its part of the reinvestment wave sparked by the anticipated arrival of the streetcar.

The rooftop bar offers a panoramic view of midtown, downtown and the Plaza. (Photo courtesy Canary)

While the address is still off the beaten culinary path, Edgington is pleased with the success of the restaurant so far, even with the pandemic.

“It’s been great and we’re lucky to have so many people support us,” she said.

“Being at (39th and Main) is not scary for us. We have the one upscale place in Westport.

“We know people will come to you if you give them a great product and great service.”

To go along with the sweeping views from the new rooftop bar, Canary also offers an “urban picnic” special to accompany cocktails. It includes house-made chiccarones, marinated olives, caviar and a bottle of sparkling wine.

Three specialty cocktails are offered as well: a Lazy Daisy, a spicy mango margarita; a Pain Killer, a classic rum tropical cocktail, and a Zelda, an upscale daiquiri.

Hours are 4 p.m. to midnight, weekdays except for Tuesday, and noon to midnight Saturdays and Sundays. Canary is closed Tuesday.