4.8 stars on Google, but the service is infuriating? Thanks, I hate this Medan sky restaurant.
qponx
2026-03-06
Thinking of visiting Medan's Penthouse on 19th? This rooftop spot offers a truly stunning city view, but be warned: the service is notoriously bad. This review dives into the highs and lows, from the elegant decor and hit-or-miss food to the infuriating staff and high prices. While the sunset is breathtaking, the experience is a gamble. Find out if the view is worth the frustration and get essential tips before you book your table at this highly-rated but flawed restaurant.
Girls, I just got back from Medan and I have to immediately dish on this super hyped-up rooftop restaurant, Penthouse on 19th. Let me start with the conclusion: The view is truly Mantap, but the service is also truly Anjay… If you're thinking of going for a date, I suggest you read this first before deciding whether to spend your money.
The View from the 19th Floor is Worth Half the Price
To be fair, the view here is undeniably amazing. The moment the elevator doors open, the entire Medan city skyline unfolds before you through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Especially at sunset, the vibes are maxed out[1]. The decor has a high-end, elegant style, perfect for couples on a date or for an anniversary photoshoot, pretending you're on a New York rooftop (not really).
As for the food, it's like opening a blind box. The Salmon Steak Spaghetti[2] I ordered was surprisingly good; the fish fillet was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the flavor was on point. My friend's Garlic Butter Lobster[3] was also decent. But! I've also seen many people complain that their food arrived cold, and some even had a fishy-tasting sea bass spaghetti[4]. So it feels like their quality control is extremely inconsistent; ordering is a total gamble.
Next Up, My Complaints I Just Have to Get Off My Chest
Alright, enough with the praise, let's get to the main point. The service here can really make you experience what it's like to pay to get angry. I read online that the waiters are untrained, have bad attitudes, and even argue with customers[5]. While I didn't have a direct confrontation this time, I definitely experienced the cold shoulder + dismissive attitude the whole time. Plus, the prices are seriously not cheap. A holiday set menu costs 588k++/person[6]. Paired with this kind of service, I can only say the value for money is rock-bottom.
Also, the tables look fancy but wobble at the slightest touch[7]. I was afraid to make any big movements in case I spilled my coffee. The whole experience is held up by the hardware and the view, while the software (the service) is a complete drag.
Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls | A Must-Read Before You Go
If you're going just for the view, remember these few points to make your experience a little better:
- Ask extra questions when booking: I saw someone mention they made a reservation in advance, only to be told upon arrival that they couldn't order food, only drinks[8]. So when you call to book, make sure to confirm again and again that you can dine in!
- Lower your expectations: Just think of it as paying for the view. Don't have any expectations for the service, and you'll reduce your anger level by 80%.
- Time it right: If you don't want to deal with crowds, pick a weekday around 6 PM[9]. There are fewer people, it's quieter, and you can easily get a window seat.
- About the dress code: It's not officially stated, but for a place like this, it's best to dress nicely (Smart Casual). After all, there's an unwritten Dress Code[10], so don't show up in flip-flops and a tank top, okay?
- Stunning 19F city skyline views, best at sunset. The elegant decor gives off major NYC rooftop vibes [1].
- Food's a gamble. Get the Salmon Steak Spaghetti—the salmon is crispy outside, tender inside. The Garlic Butter Lobster is also a safe bet [2].
- Go around 6 PM on a weekday. It's quieter, so you can easily get a window seat for the best Medan views [3].
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