Cambria Hotel New Orleans Downtown Warehouse District

I travel through New Orleans for work often, so I’d stay here again. This was my first visit, and although a travel delay got me in very late, the overnight agent greeted me pleasantly and professionally. The lobby looked clean and welcoming, and the elevator, halls, and room were all spotless with a beautiful look. The breakfast team and morning front desk staff were a pleasure too.

The staff were a pleasure throughout, from the restaurant crew to valet, especially Isaiah. Mrs. Sharon and the other staff were helpful and pleasant too. The AC was incredible, better than at plenty of five star hotels I’ve tried, and the shower was great. The restaurant downstairs had delicious food, with the best wings I’ve ever had and really good grits. I’d skip the coffee, though, and go to Nova across the street. I really wanted to love this place. It had Haunted Mansion vibes, and I’d heard good things, but the room was dirty and dingy. The bedding cover was stained and too small for the bed, and the beds were terrible. I didn’t want to complain after hearing a representative complain about another guest who’d called the desk to report a dirty room. She sounded very negative and rude, and the nice young woman checking me in seemed nervous, so I didn’t want to put her through more. I let things slide, but the photos show how unacceptable it was. The shampoo dried my hair out badly. We woke up sore every morning and asked to move or upgrade. We were told all the beds were sunken in. If the room were clean and the beds newer and more comfortable, it would have been great.

James, the cat in the hat, and Altenion made a real impression on me. They were funny, welcoming, and gave the kind of service you can’t teach. I’ve spent years in spa and hospitality work, and I noticed how much care they put in. I also want to thank the staff, managers, housekeepers, and bellman for consistently good service. You don’t need to stay at the Ritz Carlton or the Four Seasons to get five star treatment. My room was clean and comfortable, though the TV seemed to work whenever it felt like it. Each time I brought it up, someone came to help. At the bar, I was first charged $15 for a Lake Pontchartrain Margarita listed at $10. When I asked about the extra $5, the bartender told me the listed price was for the version without the Pontchartrain. I won’t name her, but she knows who she is. She did correct the bill, though the automatic $2 gratuity left me feeling pushed into a tip, and I would have tipped more otherwise. Despite that, it was a memorable stay, and I look forward to coming back.

The service has been exceptional, and the room is very clean with wonderful sheets. We’re Choice Privileges Platinums, so that may affect how we were treated, but it’s a great place to stay. Lucy's and Ernst are both nearby, and they’re great little spots to eat and hang out.