Arrival/Check-in: Embracing Hilton Hotels & Resorts’ aim to be “a global brand with a local heart,” the cool marble lobby is divided by a curved filigree screen that introduces elements of Indian art. Staff and doormen offer warm greetings, and the efficient check-in team issues magnetic room keys that open doors reliably without repeated recharges. The duty manager verified my return air ticket and printed my boarding pass promptly. (30/30)
Guest Quarters: Each of the 204 guestrooms is comfortably appointed with a mirrored accent wall, a mahogany desk, an upholstered armchair and an ottoman. Rooms include 40-inch LCD TVs, four hypoallergenic pillows, walk-in rain showers, Crabtree & Evelyn “La Source” toiletries and multiple international power points at desk height for easy internet connectivity. It took a few tries to learn the automatic light switches, but generous floor-to-ceiling windows bring in abundant natural light and offer views over the neighborhood. Executive floors provide private check-in and check-out along with complimentary breakfast, evening cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. (28/30)
Services/Amenities: A well-equipped third-floor business center complements in-room electronics. Guests can use the spa and a fitness room that features Precor stationary bikes, treadmills and strength equipment. On the roof, a breezy 15-by-80-foot infinity pool lets swimmers take laps while enjoying cityscape views. The terrace’s palm trees were selected to comply with the airport height restrictions in the area.
Room-service lunches arrived in about 20 minutes, and guests can also choose from five on-site restaurants offering snacks, lounge fare and international dining. The rooftop Q Bar and Grill serves light dishes poolside in an open-air lounge with cozy gazebo seating. The Vintage Bank on the third floor presents a masculine, steamer-trunk aesthetic and a selection of cheeses and fine wines. Ayla highlights local Kadaloram flavors, while Est in the lobby offers freshly made sandwiches, pastries, chocolates prepared on-site and salads, including a notably good Greek salad with goat cheese and grape leaves. The hotel’s main dining venue is Vasco’s, an all-day buffet with skyline views and four live kitchens presenting Indian, Oriental and international specialties. (39/40)
The Experience: Located roughly 15 minutes from the international airport and close to major tech parks, Hilton Chennai is a convenient choice for visitors to this energetic southeast Indian city, which is growing as a key business hub. Attentive service and comfortable, contemporary décor create a calm refuge from the busy streets outside. While Hilton as a brand spans several tiers globally, this property delivers a luxury experience that suits business and leisure travelers to Chennai.
Total Score: 97/100
Hilton Chennai
124/1 J.N. Salai, Ekkaduthangal
Chennai, India 600 032
tel 91 44 222 55555
Hilton Chennai