OYO 9739 Hotel Ratnalok

There was an unstoppable cigarette odor. We ordered tandoori, but the so-called boneless portion was all shredded and had no proper texture, while the dish mostly came with bones. Not a good way to serve tandoori. We arrived before 7:30 PM, and the staff didn't seem ready to operate. Even basic things like turning on the TV and getting proper service were delayed. The kitchen only starts after 7:30, so we were left waiting. Ask the waiter about almost any dish and the answer is the same, “Yes sir, but after 7:30 PM,” in an indifferent tone. It felt scripted. The place seemed poorly managed for timing, service readiness, and food quality. Not worth visiting early in the evening, and keep expectations low even later.

The service is very good, and the staff are polite. This is the oldest hotel in Akurdi, and they have kept up their food standards. It’s especially good for vegetarian food. Their sister concern also offers accommodation for guests.

The fish dishes were only average, and the neer dosa smelled bad. The restaurant said the coconut milk used to make it had spoiled. Shruti restaurant really didn’t meet expectations.

Since it’s right on the main Pune Mumbai Highway in Akurdi, it’s an easy stop for a quick meal when travelling towards Mumbai around mealtime. The food tastes good, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, and the hotel’s ground-floor hall on the first floor has a nice ambience. Service is good too, with polite staff.