Ethnotel, Kolkata Airport

The biryani was the best part of my visit to Ethnotel. It came hot and fragrant, with tender chicken, long grains of rice, and a bright saffron-like colour. Onion rings, lemon, green chilli, and seasoned curd came alongside it, and the meal felt satisfying. You could taste the care in it. The restaurant was calm and comfortable, with bamboo décor, soft lighting, clean spacious seating, and tables arranged neatly. A fresh rose on the table and the QR menu were nice touches. Outside, golden lighting on the modern building gave the entrance a warm, elegant feel. The whole visit felt welcoming, from the setting to the meal. It seems like a nice place for a family meal, a casual get-together, or dining alone. I’d like to return and try more from the menu.

I found Ethnotel convenient for a short stay before a flight, just a few minutes by car from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. The rooms were clean and comfortable, the staff were very helpful and courteous, and the in-house restaurant served tasty food. It would also suit business travellers.

The rooms were spacious, service was precise and courteous, and the breakfast buffet had a wide range of choices. Staff were helpful in guiding us around. What brought down my service rating was the conduct of two daytime reception staff. They were rude and indifferent, seemed to judge guests, and made sarcastic remarks that upset both me and my guests. That kind of behaviour can undo the good work of the management and other teams. Aside from that disappointing annoyance, the experience was as good as ever.

Food quality was good, but the portions were small and the prices high. Even a one-litre mineral water bottle or a 250 ml soft drink costs 110 including tax. They also don't allow outside food or drinks, which was the main downside for me.