Oberoi Grand – Kolkata, India

Not a huge choice of hotels in Kolkata and seeing as this is an iconic Oberoi it seemed the best pick.

Arrival

We again arrived quite late and were surprised that the hotel entrance is between rows of stalls and shops, no grand entrance here!

Check in was efficient and shown to our room.

Room

Quite disappointed, the room was dark and painted in a dull green, style was old fashioned and the bed was uncomfortable, it was clean but did not feel it due to the age.

The bathroom was awful, small with one sink and shower over bath so avoiding stepping in the toilet was an effort. The balcony was quite small with views over the inner courtyard and swimming pool.

We also discovered we were right above the restaurant which was being renovated so woken by the sound of drills and banging. I did ask for a room with a separate shower but the only one with this and a balcony was the Presidential Suite which was apparently booked by the King of Bhutan....damn!  So we just moved to a higher floor to avoid the noise but unfortunately next to the air con shafts so more noise.

Size: 42 sqm

Oberoi Room Facilities

• Natural Blended Toiletries
• Tea and Coffee making facilities
• Bottled water
• Hangers
• Safe
• Minibar
• TV with international channels
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Hairdryer
• Free Wifi

Dining

Due to the refurbishment breakfast was served in the Thai restaurant or a narrow corridor.  Buffet and a la carte offering which in general was okay but service was all over the place as they were trying to cater to too many people in a small restaurant.  We also ate here at night and the Indian food was excellent, service was also very good. 

We were asked if we would like to try the new Afternoon Tea (in the corridor place) which was excellent but took over an hour to come along with the restaurant manager and chef.

Was disappointed that the famous Chowringhee Bar was not available and does not seem to have made a reappearance.

Service

The main reason for staying here, Sabrina, the Restaurant Manager and Richard on Front desk went above and beyond expectations. Other members of staff were also friendly and helpful.

Amenities

Swimming Pool - nice area with seating area for drinks and snacks

Spa - usual treatments

Shops - one very good

Restaurants / Bar

Threesixtythree - multi cuisines for breakfast, lunch and dinner

Baan Thai - Thai for lunch and dinner

The Bar - drinks

Conclusion

Bedroom was certainly not up to scratch and disappointed we were not informed of the refurbishment but....service and food was outstanding so you can out up with the rooms and as management said they are proud of their traditional rooms!  Location is central although venturing out is an experience, if you go to far then it starts to feel unsafe.  I would probably stay here again just for the service.

 

Oberoi Grand, Kolkata

Food and Service make this a strong option in Kolkata. Click the logo to visit their website