The Imperial New Delhi

This is an iconic hotel in the heart of Delhi. The hotel itself is stunning and features surprisingly large, well maintained rooms. As a South Asian American, I didn't love the British imperialism nature of the hotel (artwork, gifts from Kings, etc.), but I understand the importance of recognizing the history of the hotel and the country. The staff was generally friendly, but they were not as openly welcoming as some other places we've stayed - there was always an underlying tone of formality to out interactions. I would recommend this hotel for business travelers or people looking for what India must have felt like under British rule. I would not recommend it for people with small kids or for those looking to experience India the way Indians do. I will note, though, that the location is incredible, and is an easy walk or drive to a lot of shopping and tourist attractions. The food at the hotel is incredible, and the breakfast is still a source of conversation in our home. Overall, it is a great place to stay and I would recommend it.

The Imperial is considered the grand dame of Indian hotels, and our expectations were high. The property, the entrance and greeting, the lobby and common areas were all spectacular. The Hardinge and Patiala Peg bars make you feel like you were in London. Everything before you get to your room is spectacular. Our room, however, was quite average. During our two day stay, our air conditioning only worked sporadically. The shower seal wasn't working and water leaked out onto the bathroom floor. The television wasn't connected well, and wobbled as though it would fall over. And we found the service at the Imperial wanting. We traveled India for two weeks and stayed at several top properties. And the Imperial's service was the worst. The concierge and front desk staff behaved as though you were inconveniencing them, and the pushed you to use their hotel car when a tax is a fraction of the cost. I'm sure there are other rooms in the hotel that would be better, and perhaps we caught the staff on an impatient day. But our experience at the Imperial was all surface wow, and underneath "meh."

Asked us to check out early??? Because they had a big group coming in early. It’s a lovely older hotel and well maintained. Not as nice as other 5 star hotels.

I was upgraded to a suite which was very nice. I had a bedroom with separate living room.

Top hotel. Service exceptional

Stayed at the Deco suite. Service is hit or miss. Mostly 80% miss. While you can't expect Four Seasons or La Mamounia treatment here, they do fail on many levels including basic ones. This is mostly a reflection on process and training vs. the people. Example 1: Disconnect between front desk and restaurant - timings and reservations. Calling the manager solved the issue. Example 2: Multiple calls to the concierge - transfers and hangups with no callbacks. Emailing management helped resolve the issue. We shouldn't have to do that to receive service Service when received lacks genuine warmth and hospitality - feels more like a business transaction. Even the Taj does better in this regard. Location, property and food was good.

Wonderful hotel. The service was impeccable and the room very comfortable. The pool area is lovely and the sense of history in the hotel is wonderfully preserved.

An oasis of green in Connaught Place. Fabulous place to stay with incredible hospitality. Choose the inclusive breakfast rate. It is the best, with multiple choices of cuisine, very well made. Nothing is too much trouble attitude. We loved it.

This hotel is the best! We stayed for 2 nights after just arriving from the US and it is perfect for recovering from long days of travel. The spa and gym deserve a special shoutout for being top tier! Best service and quality in Delhi. Truly the only complaint I have is that I wish the bathrobes were larger!

Did not receive the $100 credit for food and beverage. No room upgrade was provided.