(updated)
update august '2018 - we had dinner and breakfast on two days as part of the half board plan included in our stay. since it's been couple of years since we're visiting again, i really didn't know what to expect, considering that the entire team had changed. but as we found out, change is sometimesgood:)
the service here is exceptional. we started with dinner the first day and happened to meet mr jibin and chef akash. i merely inquired about the lack of meat on the menu, and chef akash decided to overload us with mutton biriyani and superb mutton shahi with garlic naan, that i actually was disappointed because i got so stuffed that i couldn't really foray the buffet. that said, i still did sample the buffet and i was happy. the menu is predominantly north and south indian, with freshly grilled non-veg items and breads, and a decent selection of continental options that truly impressed me (just when i actually began to believe that continental food in kerala would never catch up). my kids also had loads of fun as the were served amazing penne pasta in cheesy white sauce, and jessy really spoilt by getting them ice cream milkshakes with whatever flavor they asked. the next day we were served by chef bushan, and though i was extremely careful by not raising any questions, the past caught up with me as they had already prepared some wonderful kerala style beef fry for us. the buffet was yet again superb, with the continental dishes truly standing out for me. i even got to speak to chef ritu who was mostly in charge of the continental food, and though i merely commended her for the amazing food she prepared, she decided to cook me some mushroom risotto. wow!! i was absolutely overwhelmed, especially since it was prepared without parmesan. so guys, if you're looking forgoodcontinental food, chef ritu is your contact.
breakfast is a busy affair, with all the usual options, and you also get live appam, dosa and egg counters. you get freshly made pancakes and waffles for the kids too, with a whole lot of toppings. even though it's busy, the service is very personalised and at it's best. they even offer you a small take away kit, in case your in a rush to catch a flight or something.
overall, i couldn't praise this restaurant enough. the service alone is worth 5 stars, but they've topped it up with excellent food to match. a big thanks to jibin, the chefs and all the superb service staff here that sets this place apart from the rest.
highly recommended!!!
april '2016 - had breakfast and dinner here as part of our stay in april 2016.
set at the far end of the lobby, this place has a very relaxed pace. the service is impeccable, i have never seen any hotel in india where staff go out of their way to provide service to their guests. mr. roshan was very helpful throughout (he even gave us the cake that i ordered from them complimentary knowing it was my wife's birthday), but service staff truly deserve agoodround of applause. chef ashley also was quite accommodating, despite being very busy, he took his time out chat with us and cater to our special needs.
coming to the food, it's quite a spread from starters to dessert. quality food, prepped and served well.
yes, it's expensive, it's part of an international 5star hotel brand, so forget value for money, though it is great value for the money spent.
would definitely love to come back here soon.