Hotel Crystal Crown

I’m a regular at this food court and had enjoyed plenty of its dishes on earlier visits. This time, though, the service was disappointing. We ordered a non-veg shawarma to avoid fast food, but were brought a spicy fried egg-and-chicken roll instead. When I checked with the chef, he said, “this is sawarma they provide their.” I still don’t understand what he meant. A roll and shawarma are two different dishes. Please let customers get what they choose and pay for. It was disgusting.

The food is a big reason I’d return. I live in Hyderabad, where biryani is famous, and the Mutton Dum Biryani here still stood out. The rice had just the right spice balance and the mutton was very tender. The buffet had just closed, which I understood, so I ordered it for lunch. I liked it enough to ask for more biryani rice, and they gave it to me free. At dinner, the "Home Style Mutton Curry" with steamed rice was just as good, with balanced spices and perfectly cooked meat. Late-night room service was reliable too. It took a little while, but the food was freshly prepared and worth waiting for. I stayed one night and was pleased with the room. My Deluxe Room was spacious, clean, and had what was advertised, with amenities comparable to premium hotels like Mayfair or Swosti. I only wish I’d found this place on earlier trips to Bhubaneswar. The staff were courteous and accommodating, and let me check in about an hour and a half early without charge. I don’t know if they always do that, but I appreciated the flexibility. I don’t usually write reviews, but this stay was satisfying enough to make me want to share it. I’ll choose this hotel first next time I’m in Bhubaneswar, and if I can’t stay here, I’d still come back to the restaurant for the Mutton Biryani.

Crystal Crown, Bhubaneswar has a comfortable feel as soon as you walk in. The décor is elegant, the seating is spacious, and the atmosphere works well for a casual meal or a small gathering. The staff were polite and attentive, which helped everything go smoothly. The chilli chicken and fried rice were decent, but the taste didn’t live up to the setting. The flavours were average, not bad, just not memorable. For the price, I expected more richness and balance. I’d give the food 7 out of 10. It’s a nice spot for the atmosphere and service, though the food could use improvement, especially for people who care most about flavour.

I was there for a conference, so I can’t speak to the rooms. The hall was spacious, had central air conditioning, and seemed to have everything needed. The traditional Odia vegetarian buffet was okay and manageable, though nothing special. Other facilities looked good. There’s parking inside, which some larger places don’t offer, as well as along the side road outside. I didn’t take any interior photos.