Eataly, Mario Batali and company's temple to all things edible and Italian, has been wildly popular since it opened last August. But at the time, the partners had no idea what they would do with the roof. Now they--and we--have the answer: Birreria, their new rooftop brewery and brew pub has just opened.

With its 15th floor location in Chelsea, Birreria is being touted as the country's highest brewery. And with its views of New York landmarks like the Flatiron and the Empire State Building, they're sure to have another immediate hit on their hands. A retractable glass roof will help keep the place packed year-round.

Collaborating with brew masters from Dogfish Head Brewery in Delaware and Italian breweries Birra Baladin and Birra Del Borgo, Birreria brews three unfiltered, unpasteurized, naturally carbonated cask ales in huge copper tanks they've hoisted up onto the roof. The selection will rotate throughout the year. They also serve Italian and American craft beers as well as wines.

Of course, with Batali and partners Lidia and Joe Bastianich involved, a focus on great food is a given. Birreria features a beer-friendly menu laden with hearty fare such as braised pork, earthy mushroom dishes, house-made sausages, and grilled meats.

With America's renewed romance with beer gardens--in New York City alone, there are now at least 54, according to the New York Times--the Character Approved Birreria looks like a great way to top Eataly indeed.

[Images: Katie Sokoler/Gothamist, Eater NY]