Was really looking forward to this experience for our last night in NYC. I was a little surprised to find it was not as refined as it promised to be and was essentially a self service snack bar on a roof top. We got rude staff, who then expect a tip for simply opening and giving you a bottle of over priced Corona ($9) through a serving hatch. Quite what part of this Souless exchange deserves a tip I’m not sure. As such I never leave one on that basis, unless I think the Server has warranted it, with some kind of nicety. I was however prompted by the gentleman serving me that tips are not included in the bill and demanded I add one prior to payment!! In my world tips are not to be expected but earnt and certainly not requested. We didn’t stay long as a result.

Been a few years ago on holiday but just back and what a difference ! Lots of people, girl said you have to find a place to sit ??? Then she says you go to the bar and order your drinks and food ! I went up, not wearing my glasses paid for a raspberry mojito and a peach Bellini as well as chicken strips with a sauce and a chicken burger ! She asked me to confirm and i pressed continue, then told me to collect my food at another part ! I then asked her for a receipt and she said email or text. I got it by email and she had charged me 20% tip ! Never asked me or anything, for mediocre food (which we left most of) and watered down drinks, RIP-OFF ! I would never waste my time here again or recommend! Left after 45 minutes !! Better rooftop bars AVOID THIS ONE !

Whilst the really high viewpoints in NYC (Rockerfeller etc) give a birds eye view of the city, 230 Fifth gives you a more "face-to-face" view of in particular the famous Empire State Building, along with others. Match this with a really good selection of dinks and food, and timed for late afternoon or early evening and this venue has a real buzz about it. A couple of hours can easily disappear amid the noise of people just talking and laughing.

Lovely spot BUT it was lightly raining when we visited, we put up the table umbrella and one rude member of staff told us and all the other people with umbrellas up that we were not allowed them up as they are for sun and not rain! I have literally never heard anything so rediculous and when we questioned it there were no negotiations despite spending a fortune in there. Also tried to order some Nachos (to eat in the rain!) and was told we were not allowed as it was raining, despite other people being able to eat. Was told they must have ordered before it started raining! Rediculous and rude management. I gave one star as it wouldn’t let me complete without adding a star but it doesn’t even deserve that. Avoid at all costs!!

Pro's
- nice vibe
- good music
- service ok
- decent view

Cons
- watered down drinks
- food hit n miss
- feels chilly even inside
- they serve drinks in plastic cups inside
- they try to palm your deposit off as bottle service only but you can actually have any food or drink with it as per purchase rights