Empire Hotel

The staff were professional and communicated clearly in both English and Hindi. The rooms were clean, the bed and floor too, and there’s a lot of space for the price. The mix of modern and vintage touches was nice, and it felt close to a three-star stay. The location on the main street at Lamington Road made getting around easy. Street noise does come through a bit, though the curtains help. The chai shop on the ground floor makes great tea, even if it only takes cash. One big problem was the Grand Hotel food service. They aren’t part of the hotel, and the people there were rude, slow and unprofessional. When I asked for fresh lime soda, they gave me the soda in a plastic bag and a separate bottle of soda water. Better to order from outside.

I had a very good one-day stay at Empire Hotel, and I’d book it again next time I’m in Mumbai. Grant Road railway station is about 500m away, which made getting around easy. The outside looks decent, but the rooms inside were a pleasant surprise: spacious, clean and well kept, with a large bathroom. Mine was bright, had hot water all day, and came with a mini-fridge and electric kettle. There was no cigarette smell, which I always check for. There’s no restaurant in the hotel, though they’ll provide plates and bowls if you order food from outside. The double bed is two single beds pushed together, so there’s a small gap, which isn’t ideal for couples. That’s a minor issue beside the good points. It’s Mumbai, so don’t expect a room as big as your bedroom at home, but for the price this is a very good place to stay.

Everything was very clean, and the rooms are well maintained. Breakfast was fresh and delicious, and the staff were kind and helpful. Voices from reception carry into the rooms directly across from it because the staff speak a little loudly. Aside from that, it’s a great option for staying in Mumbai.

The entrance is a little tricky and there’s no lift, but the staff were lovely and helpful. They served complimentary tea in the evening and a very good breakfast in the morning. I stayed one night with my mother. It’s on the main road, near Marine Drive, and I’d consider staying again.