Vivanta Chennai IT Expressway OMR is strategically located along Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) and close to East Coast Road (ECR), making it an ideal hub for both business travelers and tourists. While navigating traffic due to ongoing metro work at Sholinganallur can be challenging, the hotel's proximity to major IT hubs, business offices and hospitals is a major draw. The convenient accessibility and overall ambiance make it a favored choice despite its distance from Chennai's core and airport.
The breakfast buffet at the hotel is highly praised, offering a wide variety of South Indian and North Indian dishes, including non-vegetarian options. The quality of the food, along with the well-maintained dining area, enhances the breakfast experience. Although some guests suggested more variety and an earlier start time for the breakfast service, the overall consensus is that the breakfast is a highlight of the stay.
Dinner at the hotel receives mixed reviews. While many guests find the North and South Indian dishes tasty and healthy, there are consistent calls for more variety in the dinner buffet. Signature in-room dining options like the Caesar salad and Cream of chicken soup are well-liked, although some guests consider the food overpriced and occasionally of mediocre quality.
Rooms at Vivanta Chennai IT Expressway OMR are appreciated for being clean, spacious and well-equipped. Positive feedback often highlights the good maintenance and cleanliness of the rooms, adding to the guests' comfort. However, issues like small bathrooms, noise from the OMR road and occasional slow room service were noted by some.
Cleanliness is a strong point for the hotel with many guests commending the hygienic and well-maintained facilities. Minor lapses are mentioned, such as dirty bathrooms and stained items, but overall, the hotel's high standards of cleanliness are well-regarded.
The staff at Vivanta Chennai IT Expressway OMR receive exceptional praise for their hospitality, friendliness and prompt service. The dedication of the team, including standout performances from the chefs and housekeeping staff, significantly adds to the positive guest experience. Despite a few isolated management issues, the staff's commitment to high service standards upholds the hotel's reputation.
WiFi connectivity at the hotel is mostly reliable and appreciated, though some guests pointed out occasional speed issues, particularly during critical tasks like conference calls.
The gym receives positive reviews for being well-maintained and equipped, despite some guests suggesting further improvements.
The swimming pool is another well-regarded feature, noted for being family-friendly, clean and well-maintained, though minor issues like limited access during construction occasionally arose.
The parking facilities at the hotel are convenient and secure with ample space in both the basement and front of the hotel. A few guests mentioned that the area could benefit from better lighting and proper parking spaces.
Families find Vivanta Chennai IT Expressway OMR to be exceptionally kid-friendly with tailored meals and ample play spaces for children. The supportive and accommodating staff further enhance the family-friendly atmosphere, making it a preferred choice for family stays despite occasional bed allocation issues.
The beds receive mixed reviews; while many guests find them comfortable with amazing pillows, some report discomfort due to hardness and maintenance issues like non-functioning bed lights.
While some guests consider the hotel a true five-star experience consistent with Tata's hospitality legacy, others feel it falls short of five-star standards seen in other Taj Vivanta properties.
For business travelers, the efficient check-in and check-out processes are highly praised, reinforcing the hotel's suitability for business stays.
Overall, Vivanta Chennai IT Expressway OMR shines with its strategic location, exceptional breakfast, dedicated staff, cleanliness and family-friendly amenities, even as it faces room for improvement in some areas such as dinner variety and consistency in five-star service standards.
Pharos Hotels in Chennai is highly regarded for its prime central location, providing convenient access to public transport options and nearby attractions like the Hard Rock Cafe, as well as various restaurants and bars. The hotel is new, clean, and well-maintained, offering spacious rooms that ensure comfort. Guests commend the friendly and cooperative staff, who enhance the pleasant and peaceful ambiance of the hotel. Valet parking and decent amenities further contribute to the overall experience, solidifying it as a good value choice despite minor inconvenience with road access.
The breakfast service at Pharos Hotels receives favorable reviews for its variety and quality, featuring a mix of Indian and Continental dishes that appeal to a diverse range of palates. Freshness and presentation of the food are appreciated, with service being consistently praised. The abundance of delightful South Indian cuisine is a highlight, particularly for those fond of such flavors, making breakfast an enjoyable start to the day.
Rooms at Pharos Hotels are frequently described as clean, spacious, and well-equipped with modern amenities including mini-fridges and large flat-screen TVs. The cozy decor and quiet environment make for a relaxing stay. Housekeeping standards are notably high, with daily cleanings and provision of complimentary water bottles. Facilities like the sauna and steam room are well-maintained and add to the enjoyment.
Exceptional cleanliness is a defining feature of Pharos Hotels, impressing guests with spotless rooms, well-kept fitness centers, and tidy common areas. The emphasis on professional housekeeping ensures a restful experience, despite minor mosquito concerns. Polite and responsive staff consistently uphold this standard, enhancing the hotel's position as a great value option for travelers.
The staff at Pharos Hotels are dedicated to delivering quality service, creating a warm and welcoming environment. Guests consistently praise the team's friendliness, professionalism, and readiness to assist, with individuals like Mr. Ashok frequently commended for their attentive demeanor. Although occasional feedback suggests further training might be needed, the overall impression is of a committed staff eager to accommodate guests' needs, leaving a lasting positive impact on visitors.