Hotel Shalimar

Hotel Shalimar Esplanade feels like a luxurious retreat in the heart of Kolkata, though it is certainly pricey. My stay left me impressed by the hotel's service, amenities, and dining, and I consider the splurge worthwhile. It has the makings of a great luxury hotel, with room to improve affordability, international food choices, and amenities and services for families with children. The location is a major plus. The hotel is within walking distance of the Indian Museum, the Victoria Memorial, and the Maidan, and close to shopping areas including Park Street. It sits in the middle of the bustling city, yet the lobby feels warm and inviting. Its high ceilings, marble floors, chandeliers, architecture, and elegant décor give it an opulent look. My room had plush carpets, rich wood furnishings, and lavish amenities. The bed was very comfortable, the linens were crisp and clean, and there was a flat-screen TV, minibar, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel's restaurants offer cuisines ranging from traditional Indian to international. At the signature restaurant, I had exquisite dishes and attentive, knowledgeable service that went above and beyond to make the meal memorable. The hotel also offers a state-of-the-art fitness center, luxurious spa, outdoor swimming pool, business center, complimentary parking, laundry services, and tour assistance. I'd suggest booking a room with a city view, trying the signature restaurant, using the spa and fitness center, and exploring the nearby historic landmarks and cultural attractions. I'd recommend it to anyone seeking a luxurious, unforgettable stay in Kolkata. Rating: 5/5.

The beer was fine, but the food was awful. The Pulak rice and paneer were the worst Indian food I’ve ever had, even compared with my own cooking. New Market merchants talked me into stopping for a beer, and I went along with it. This place seems good for drinks, but the restaurant is rubbish and barely seems to serve food. Lazy business.

Dinner here in Kolkata felt like a really unique experience. Visit @foodiesusil

The place was clean, and the food was good quality with a decent variety, though the prices felt high. The rooms also didn’t seem up to standard for what they cost. Most staff weren’t fair in how they treated people, and their behavior seemed to change depending on the tip.