Indeed, even entering and walking through the arty and gorgeous The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore is an experience in itself. It is like entering a velvet cocoon of luxury, style, and elegance, coupled with a palpable sensation of comfort and security. Roses are strewn, the traditional aarti follows and an army of The Ritz Carlton, Bangalore is there right by my side to ensure this is one welcome I might never forget!
As if this was not enough, I’m checked into a sprawling, swish suite with a marshmallow-soft bed, plush terry bathrobes, ravishing bath-tub with world-class bath amenities by Asprey of London. Add to this a bird-eye’s view of the city and lovely handwritten welcome notes alongside a swanky dessert presentation, everything love at first sight!
After the exhausting travel, everything my heart craved for was a hearty lunch. And the stage was set for some culinary magic at Riwaz- the speciality Indian restaurant at the property where I was regaled by melt-in-the-mouth galouti kebabs, spectacular Rogan Josh and irresistible desserts. And it was safe to say that Riwaz does Indian food understatedly, not making it a mishmash of spices but a minimalist medley of flavours, proving that less is indeed more.
This is followed by walk around this beauty of a property that is an art junkie’s dream brought to life with detailing and intricacy in every corner. Another highlight during my stay was experiencing the Legendary Ritz Carlton high-tea- a scrumptious affair of the most lip-smacking savouries and macaroons and pastries left with dessert coma alongside great TGL teas.
Dinner at The Lantern is another special affair with its extensive dim-sum selections (and it is to die for). The star from the night remains the great Chef Homemade Bean Curd with mushroom, black truffle, vegetarian oyster sauce, Chef special pumpkin sauce with asparagus and edmame was unlike anything I ever had.
For rum-lovers, there is RumBah that dedicates most of their collection to the spirit adored by pirates, including rums from Trinidad and Tobago (Kraken), Guyana (El Dorado 12 Year Aged Calypso), Venezuela (Cacique Ron Anejo Rum) and Dominican Republic (1888 Ron Gran Reserva Familiar). Also another rooftop Bang, with its great music, vibe and the best view just kills it.
Being a spa junkie, I was looking forward to trying the spa at the property. I opted for the signature treatment called the Jaali Embrace. The ultimate experience for those who find it difficult to unwind, this ritual uses the energy and power of four hands moving in harmony to restore energetic, physical and emotional equilibrium. Starting with a welcome foot ritual to ground and balance energy, two therapists then connect to commence the four handed, tension releasing body massage. Using long, sweeping movements, this treatment featured the pouring of warm oil and use of hot volcanic stones, finishing with a balancing and soothing therapeutic head massage and I drifted in sweet slumber with visions of tropical wellness.
This is followed by a hair treatment at Rossano Ferretti Salon which was one of the most detailed and effective hair treatments I’ve tried lately. Fatigued or not, I suggest you book yourself for one of the treatments at both the spa and salon.
And alas, like all good things come to end, departing from this gorgeous backdrop has to be one of my hardest good-byes. Yes, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore does world-class food, offers amazing amenities but what is at the heart of this fabulousness is the gracious staff that will get you another coffee if they see it turning cold or a pillow while you are dining if they see you even slouching.
I must acknowledge that with all staggering personalization and thoughtful touches, there is an incredible natural high that comes from being surrounded by the great spirit of the hotel. From candle and rose-petal cocooned bath set-ups to celestial private meal-experiences, a sort of beauty overdose flooded through me. No wonder, this “The Ritz Carlton junkie” has already set her sights on her next Ritz Carlton experience.
Note– The critic was hosted by the property but all the opinions expressed herewith are her own.
Where: The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore
99, Residency Rd, Shanthala Nagar,
Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025
Phone: 080 4914 8000
