Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences

I have NEVER had a better experience than what I experienced at the Taj 51 Buckingham Gate hotel recently. The staff went truly WAY above and beyond. I have stayed in various hotels at least monthly for the last decade plus, and this was THE BEST stay I have ever had in any hotel, anywhere around the globe, and it all came down to the attentiveness of the staff. It ended up being one of my best birthdays ever, even though I was on the road - the staff created an experience where I felt truly special and feted. If you are ever wondering if the slightly extra cost is worth it (though, really, my stay was quite reasonable), the answer is an unqualified YES!!

We were looking for a 5-star hotel with a strong brand reputation as we wanted nothing to go wrong. Also, we wanted a place with a good restaurant and spa. The restaurant, TH@51, was fairly empty when we arrived at 8pm (a December Saturday evening) so was lacking in atmosphere. Three dishes were served with frozen chips and we confirmed that they did indeed serve frozen chips with the restaurant manager, Mr Kumar. They were dry and not edible. The quality of food across our 5 ordered meals was poor and unacceptable for the price. As I continued to challenge Mr Kumar, he informed me that he is "proud" of the (ready made processed frozen) food they serve. A cake was brought out as we were celebrating a birthday, but the restaurant quietly added a charge for it. The spa was out of action during our stay and the hotel are refusing to offer a gestural partial refund for its closure. The priority has been to take our money but with little care or consideration of what is offered. For a 5-star hotel I would expect a sizeable lobby or communal lounge. There is a small lobby with a couple of small lounge areas that seat maybe 6 people. Its not what I would expect at this price point. Would I return? Not if you paid me.

Everything was perfect, the staff's friendliness was unmatched and on par with their professionalism. The establishment is ideal, one of the best I've been to. I would rate it 25 out of 10, but I would like to point out that there are two people I would rate 100 out of 10: Nikita at reception and Tania in the restaurant. They are fantastic. I will definitely be back.

Another outstanding stay at 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences. I was welcomed back with the usual genuine warmth that I have come to expect from this wonderful place. As ever the service was impeccable and the accommodation out of this world, particularly as I was given the most amazing upgrade to the most luxurious suite I have ever stayed in. Thank you to everyone at the Taj for another world class stay. I would not wish to stay anywhere else when I have occasion to visit London.

Warm welcome at check in, smooth process and taken to the room and provided a full tour of the suite and its facilities. Staff were always helpful. The suites were great and I loved the birthday cake and balloons !