SAMBA ROOM — Restaurant in London

Booked for 8.30pm for drinks with my friend, wasn’t actually seated on a table until 9pm! We were told when arriving we would only have to wait a few minutes before being seated at our table. We then asked the staff in the room roughly how long as it had already been ten minutes. Bear in mind throughout the time we were waiting multiple groups had been seated on their tables as soon as they had arrived. The second time we chased up on our table the bartender very quickly got us seated, so much appreciation to him. We had ordered an expensive bottle of champagne to which we were given wine glasses and was told that it fits better for the bottle. We both work in hospitality so we were very aware that statement wasn’t true and asked the host for the appropriate glass. There is a lack of bar knowledge on the food menu, we had only asked what ice cream flavours they do to which he could only list two. He checked and told us the rest and we ordered. When it arrived two of the ice creams were correct but we couldn’t guess what the last one was and asked him. To which he didn’t know?! He said the one we asked for was actually out of stock so he told the kitchen to just surprise us? We weren’t a big fan of whatever that last option was, and didn’t appreciate that we weren’t told about a change in our order.

However, I do appreciate the bars knowledge on their drinks menu. They helped we decide on a cocktail that fitted my taste preferences perfectly. Stunning view, the samba room itself is a bit smaller than what it seems online. Stunning interior and a great atmosphere. Service needs...

The ride in the lift is wonderful. It's lovely to recognise familiar areas on the way up, but seemingly in miniature. The palm corridor leads you to the very welcoming greeters. It was very warm in that area, however. We were shown to our table in the Samba room, which looks a little smaller than I imagined. Perhaps it's the wide angle lens used for the photos. It's an intimate venue with a high quality service. Our server Ouail, was a complete professional and was there just when you thought you may need him. He must be a mind reader! The cocktails were served in a beautiful and elegant glass and our bar food was delicious. My wife and our friend ordered the pork belly and the sweet potato antichuchos. I was offered some of each and wished I had ordered some too. Disappointed I had already eaten fast food earlier! We popped in to the bar downstairs after a while to get the full experience and to see more stunning views. It must look beautiful in the dusk up there. It wasn't too busy in the early evening and although this means service was very quick, I do like a busy atmosphere. I have heard it gets very busy so I should be pleased with the fast service. We chatted for a while with the guys on the door downstairs and found them very...

I arrived in London excited to enjoy my time and was immediately met with hostility at the door of this establishment. Despite being dressed immaculately in cashmere and a well-put-together outfit worth thousands, I was given a hard time getting in—while others, dressed far more casually in sweatpants and sneakers, were let in without question.

The treatment I received was not only unfair but blatantly discriminatory. There was no legitimate reason for the way I was singled out other than prejudice—both racial and age-based. It was insulting beyond belief. No one should be treated this way, especially when they come in good faith, ready to support a business.

If you value class, fairness, and respect, do not spend your money here. This place has no regard for basic human decency. London has many incredible places—this is not one of them. Avoid...