The Starling Atlanta Midtown, Curio Collection by Hilton

The room was in unacceptable shape, with two large cracks, visible dust, and a broken toilet seat. The staff experience was also frustrating. I could count fewer than five genuinely kind people among everyone we dealt with, and too many had an unacceptable attitude or interrupted me. Hospitality shouldn’t feel like a bother to the staff. Valet costs $90 a night, but the phone went unanswered repeatedly, leaving us with unnecessary Uber rides and long waits. After booking a spa treatment to relax, I then waited 45 minutes for an elevator, which wiped out the point of a 90-minute de-stress session. I’ve stayed here since it was the W and it used to be my preferred Atlanta hotel. This was easily my most disappointing visit. I hope management responds or gets in touch, but after this, I can’t recommend the hotel and won’t return.

That gourmet food court right next door is fantastic. I’ve stayed here and liked the room, but the bar and lounge were the best part for me, with great staff and service.

The Commons made a packed breakfast feel cheerful and easy. Nicole served us both mornings and remembered our drinks and preferences from the day before, bringing so much brightness to the start of the day. Briana was kind and helpful, and the whole breakfast team, including Tyler and Hanna, kept the buffet food hot and made sure people had what they needed. The food itself was delicious, a welcome change from standard hotel breakfast. Regina at the front desk also made our birthday stay enjoyable with her help, directions, and recommendations. I travel often in the US and abroad and rarely write reviews, but these staff members deserve the recognition. Thanks especially to Regina, Nicole, and Briana for helping us find a little calm during the chaos of Valentines weekend, cheerleaders and all.

I’d happily come back next time I’m in Atlanta. The front desk staff were lovely, and the smart room was a good size with nice decor. Floor-to-ceiling windows had both net and regular curtains, and I was lucky enough to catch amazing sunrises when it wasn’t foggy. The bathroom was roomy with a nice shower, and there were plenty of outlets and USB ports plus a big TV. Lots of restaurants are close by. A few things could be better for a stay longer than a few days: not enough clothes storage, with the low hanging area leaving clothes touching the shelf; too few spots to dry towels; and nowhere for coats, though hooks inside the room would be easy to add. There were no ceiling lights, so it felt dim, especially at the desk when working. WiFi wasn’t very fast either. I stayed six nights on a work trip.