The Ritz-Carlton, Baku

I didn’t stay overnight, but I attended meetings and events at The Ritz-Carlton Baku and ate there. It’s clearly one of Baku’s top luxury places for business, events, and dining. The meeting rooms were impressive, well organised and equipped with technology, with a very professional team supporting them. Service was smooth, efficient, and attentive throughout. Staff were discreet and professional, and the lobby felt spacious, calm, and elegant, with contemporary design that wasn’t over the top. The public spaces were sophisticated but comfortable, and the food and drinks were excellent in taste and presentation. The experience lived up to the brand’s reputation.

The rooms have a thoughtful, spacious design, and some have balconies and opening windows. Others don’t open, so check beforehand if that matters, since they won’t tell you. There’s an adults-only pool, a decent gym, a shuttle to the city, and à la carte breakfast. The location takes some getting used to: it’s a six-minute walk just to the surrounding interchange, and you can’t walk anywhere from there. We knew that before booking. Housekeeping and service were the real problem. There was dust on the floor, and despite repeated calls to reception and promises to clean, it stayed there. They seemed not to care that I’m asthmatic, and staff lied to our faces. Housekeepers also came into rooms with their keys without knocking or being invited. The service didn’t feel like Ritz-Carlton level; staff at other hotels in the chain were friendlier. There seemed to be a butler, but he didn’t reply to messages or do anything. Local guests seemed to get better treatment. The breakfast menu was fine for one day, but there wasn’t enough variety for a longer stay. The buffet was all sweet items, with no protein options, though Eggs Benedict was available. We only learned about the shuttle from reviews, and staff seemed reluctant to run it or tell guests what services were available. With maintenance like this, I think the rooms will soon fall into disrepair. It’s an okay standard five-star hotel, but not a Ritz. I definitely won’t return.

The food was beautifully presented and delicious, and the cozy, stylish setting made for a lovely meal. Nigar and Uzeyir made us feel especially welcome with their warmth, professionalism, and care over every detail. From beginning to end, everything was handled with real elegance. One of the best places we’ve visited, and highly recommended.

We’ve been here with family for a week, and the hospitality has been wonderful. The staff are so friendly and quick to help. At tribeca, Yegana was especially kind and kept checking that everything was fine. The Ritz Carlton is an amazing hotel, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking to relax and have a good time in Baku.