Top of the Strand Rooftop Bar — Restaurant in New York

Where: This rooftop lounge sits on top of the Strand Hotel, West 37th Street. The scene: The dramatic view of the Empire State Building is enough to bring flocks of city dwellers to the Top of the Strand. But look away from the incredible structure and you’ll find yourself in a modern splendour – created by Lydia Marks, the set designer for Sex in the City, this rooftop bar is a young cosmopolitan’s dream. The bar is made atmospheric by the flickering candles and lanterns dotted in between potted plants, the long wooden banquettes decorated with rural tartan cushions, and the impressive views adding to its contemporary city charm. Signature drink: There are plenty of fine wines and great beers here, including a Pumpkin Ale that tastes like ‘coca-cola in beer form’, as well as fabulous cocktails. Try the Honey Miss Daisy, a sweet and spicy mixture of tequila blanco, pomegranate, sweet vermouth, burnt honey and tobasco. Take a bite: The menu here is simple yet effective; including lamb ribs, nuts, chips and charcuterie - but the speciality is definitely their Double Maine Lobster Rolls. With twice as much meat as other restaurants, including the juicy tail meat, this sumptuous butter poached whole Maine lobster is layered into a soft roll and served with the hotel’s own...

The host/server was very unpleasant upon arrival, asking if we had a reservation or if we were staying in the hotel. He then told us they don't really take walk ins. He pretended to have to check to see if we can be seated but did nothing and directed us to 2 free seats by the window anyway after I mentioned that I had come here before without a reservation. This is not an elite bar, not sure why he asked any of these questions. You do not have to stay at the hotel to access the bar, and it was not busy. I have walked in before with 4 people a few weeks prior with no problem at all. Clearly there was no problem seating us. When I later ordered my drink, the man interrupted me before I was even done ordering and moved on to take my partner's order. Super rude and unnecessary especially because it was not busy...at all. He did not check on us at all, filled other peoples water, and only came to tell us it was last call and brought the check. I regret even tipping 18% bc I am not one to not tip at all, but he really did not deserve it. The atmosphere is nice here despite this rude interaction. Likely won't be returning...

We came to New York for our friends 30th birthday and top of the strand didn’t disappoint! Their drink prices are reasonable for a beautiful rooftop view of the Empire State Building and comfortable seating/upbeat atmosphere with a dj. I got the Oscar and it was incredible, we also got a bottle of champagne. As soon as we got there it felt extremely exclusive and relaxing, our waiter Patrick was the real star of the show though! He was an AMAZING waiter. He poured our champagnes for us, made sure our champagne glasses stayed full the entire time, made sure to check on us throughout our entire almost 2.5 hour stay, and was the sweetest guy the entire time. He was so kind and it really made our experience the best, and our favorite bar on the trip! He even saw us leaving and offered to take a picture of our group with the Empire State Building in the back, and we got a picture with him as well! If you visit New York, come to the top of the strand and ask for Patrick you won’t...