Tori U.
Yelp
London's newest addition to the RBS (Rooftop Bar Scene) seems to be heavily relying on its admittedly stunning views but suffering dementia by failing to recall that customer service is key both for repeat customers and getting the word out.
Yes, its Palissandro Bronzetto marble bar tabletop and gilded honeycomb partitions are splendid as are the black and yellow patterns and the playful pineapple thematics (the name means pineapple in Cantonese). However, I will not allow myself to be bought and sold by the cocktail ingredients conjuring the delicately spiced flavours of the Orient (think jasmine, pear, and yuzu).
Let's state some facts.
Attempt 1: Let's just say I've been here twice and still haven't been able to quaff anything. The first time, we came up to the 14th floor of the Dorsett on a whim. There were plenty of tables available (as it said reserved from 6:30 and it was 5:45) but they made a bit of a fuss before seating us. It took 15 minutes of waiting before I asked for a menu. Another 15 until we got a menu (keep in mind the place is rather small and it wasn't that busy). By that point, it was 6:15 and we were considering not getting a drink, mentally extrapolating how long it would take to actually receive it, when we asked to move as the party had come for their table a little early. Move where? They didn't know. So we left.
Attempt 2: The second time I came, I got smart and paid a deposit but we turned up about 10 minutes late - not a problem, I thought, given how the table was sub-let until arrival last time and there's no warning on timing at the time of booking. My friend, arriving first, stated my name (keep in mind I paid a 30 quid holding deposit) but my name couldn't be found....when I came up and showed them my confirmation they changed the story, saying that I had relinquished my table by my arriving late. Even though my friend who arrived within 10 minutes was just left standing there like an idiot as they couldnt find my booking. I explained that my friend had showed up before the 15 minutes were up. They *reluctantly*! showed us to another table (as if they were doing me a favour) which did not have enough chairs to seat our party. No apology for their mistake. Nothing. We left.
Think that says it all. Very put off. Have been asked several times by friends about this place and all I can tell them is "Yea, the view is nice but even if you book, take a quick pic because you'll likely just walk in and straight out."