Formerly the New Delhi Hilton, this property is in a convenient location making it popular with young executives and upscale leisure travelers. At inspection, much needed renovations were underway to yet again restore this tower to the standards of the city's other monolith properties—namely the Oberoi and the Shangri-La. But, its Americanized standards will never match up to the formers' impeccable service delivery.
Set back from the noisy road, the 28-story sandstone building rises behind a massive porte cochere. The dim, four-story atrium is dramatic, an architectural hodge podge of marble pillars, flying bridges, lofty corridors and a 10-m-high waterfall beside a smartly-done sitting area. Rare touches of local color include bronze Hindu statues and a gigantic Picasso-esque
mural depicting a macabre scene of early colonialism. At inspection, a complete overhaul of the public areas was underway.
This hotel offers excellent dining, particularly in Delhi's highest rooftop restaurants: a luscious Mediterranean grill that wows diners with its vibrant open kitchen and panoramic city views. Indian and Chinese restaurants provide other options including a locally-popular dim sum menu. A sun-drenched cafe and sports bar round out the offerings. The high-tech disco is one of the capital's premier nightspots. An open art gallery is also on-site.
The health club and pool are perched well above traffic noise, and families can take advantage of a small pool for younger guests. A shopping arcade, beauty salon, and tour desk provide convenience. The business center and conference space hold up to 800 delegates, and valet parking is free. The business center is open around the clock.
Two wood-and-glass express elevators deliver guests to the hallways and renovated guest rooms. Standard accommodations feature conservative furniture, large TVs, phones with data ports, wireless high-speed Internet access (for a fee), minibars, safes, and one king or two double beds, no tiny twins here. The spacious baths supply robes, hair dryers, scales and showers with hand-held heads in deep tubs. Suites offer only a few extra amenities but their primary attraction is more space than most rooms in this city. Guests on floors 20 and 23 have private check-in, complimentary airport transfers, butler assistance, and a private lounge serving breakfast and evening snacks. The newest rooms come with sleek glass desks, flat-screen TVs, hardwood floors, and chrome accessories.
Only one room is suitable for disabled guests, and none of the quarters accommodates pets. Service varies depending upon the overall occupancy rates. Pets are not permitted.
This hotel does not compete in the top tier, but the rates are comparatively reasonable.
