The Imperial New Delhi

First time my wife and I stayed in Imperial 20 years ago and we thought it is a simply fabulous hotel. 2nd time it was 10 years ago, and we believed it is still a good, though quite old-fashioned one. Next to nothing changed in Imperial since then and now it is just an outdated and overpriced property still pretending it is fancy and charging for its true value. They still manage to keep that expensive feeling on the ground floor with all sculptures, marble floors and numerous staff dressed in traditional dresses smiling and bowing at you everywhere. But paying more than a USD 1k per night (speaking Heritage Suite we booked) one expects a bit more than unlimited bowing. To start with I have difficulties understanding this kind of room category for this kind of money with quarter of 21st century behind not to have a bidet, but just a “hygienic shower” with only cold water, just like any public toilet in India. “Do not disturb” and “clean my room” buttons obviously haven’t been upgraded since the hotel’s build date. One can’t see which of them is engaged from inside the room, there are no indicating lights and they can both be engaged at the same time (like on the photo). So, once the night turn-down didn’t come-in because they believed it is DND. And next morning we were waken up by non-stopping buzz at the entry door, because we supposedly had “clean my room” engaged and housekeeping decided to check what it is that we want even though it is our departure morning. The old-fashioned electric sockets are placed in various strange places (that maybe made sense 50+ years ago), so if you want to connect something on your night table, you have to request for an extension. Wood floors that in old days must have been beautiful and noble are badly scratched and, somehow, nobody bothered to clean then, so they became visibly dusty even though we stayed 2 nights only. All horizontal surfaces (night tables, work desk, dressing table, etc.) are covered with glass and they all wear fingerprints of hundreds of previous guests and staff. Towels are OK, not white and fluffy any longer after being washed thousands times. All in all, if before we didn’t have any doubts where to stay in Delhi, next time (if it happens), we will choose to stay elsewhere.

The Hotel Imperial is always an excellent choice—elegant in every aspect of its service. The new lounge area offers amenities and treats throughout the day, with staff attentive to satisfying every need,especially Karan Garc.

I was massively impressed by my recent experience at The Imperial Hotel in Delhi. The hotel is wonderful, of course, but the level of customer service is excellent. There are a few people in particular I would like to single out. Firstly, Amandeep Singh, who is responsible for supporting guests at Delhi airport. He met us at the airport and gave us wonderful welcome to Delhi following our flight from the UK. He then followed up by WhatsApp to ensure we had what was need and to check on details from our subsequent internal flight. Even though we then flew from a domestic terminal different from the ones that service international flights (and therefore not staffed by the Imperial Hotel), Amandeep stayed on beyond his normal finishing time and came across to meet us at the domestic terminal. He managed a wonderfully smooth and pain-free entrance and check-in at the airport. It was quite remarkable – and made our transit to our next destination pain free, fast and genuinely pleasant. His attention to customer service really was excellent. Secondly, Varun Mehta, The Head Concierge, who brings charm and what seems like effortless attention to sorting things out – whether it was a guide, advice on shopping, or arranging a great table in the Spice Route restaurant. Really superb. And finally Ashraf – opening doors, arranging lifts, always saying hello and remembering our names – a great asset to the hotel.

My stay at the Imperial Hotel was very good overall. I would like to express my sincere appreciation for Ankur Sharma, who greeted me at the airport upon arrival and escorted me to the Imperial car. He also ensured a smooth departure experience by accompanying me all the way to immigration. Throughout, he was courteous, very helpful, and genuinely pleasant. He is excellent at his job, and his professionalism made a lasting impression on my stay.

Stayed here for a night with access to the imperial lounge which was amazing! The service was impeccable and they served us high tea, cocktails and the French onion soup was to die for. Ritika was so nice and made our stay even more amazing if possible! We regret not staying longer and will def stay here again if possible?