The Den, Whitefield - Reviewed by Priya Bala

Situated as it is on the ITPL Main Road within easy reach of many IT companies and various corporate offices, The Den is ideal for those who arrive in Bangalore to work in this part of the city. Given the traffic congestion in the city, The Den becomes a place of choice for those working in Bangalore and looking for 5-star accommodation. One of its attractions is that being a standalone brand it breaks away from the cookie-cutter form of the large chains.

Rooms and suites

Accommodation options here include the compact Den Room, the Den Corner and the Den Studio, the latter two being upgraded versions of the basic room with writing nooks and lounge chairs.

There are three types of suites to choose from: Paramount, Town House and the Den Suite. These are ultra-modern, elegant in their minimalist approach to design and yet packed with comforts, great amenities – such as top quality toiletry – and hi-tech coffee makers. Located on the higher floors of the hotel, the suites afford nice views of the city from above.

Dining options

The Deli Espressor Bar in the main corridor off the lobby is a compact bar to stop for a well-made espresso and nibble on a pastry or savoury bake.

The Creek is the The Den’s all-day restaurant, putting out vast buffet spreads for breakfast, lunch and dinner and also serving a la carte selections. By day, this is a sun-lit space with large glass doors opening onto a patio that runs around a water feature that gives this restaurant its name. Whether it’s a freshly made waffle or dosa for breakfast, Oriental favourites for lunch or a grilled steak for dinner, The Creek satisfies all tastes. It’s a popular choice for corporate lunches, so expect the place to be crowded and noisy on weekday afternoons.

Layla is the hotel’s showpiece restaurant, occupying the rooftop. This Mediterranean restaurant follows the same no-frills design principle as the rest of the hotel, and has gorgeous views of Whitefield by night. There is al fresco seating on the wind-swept terrace – it can get quite chilly here – and a warm indoor space. With a selection of hot and cold mezze and authentic Mediterranean specials, from tagine to tortellini, this is one of the best places in town for the cuisine.

Bars

The Nest is the lobby level bar at The Den, a chic space, with an outdoor area as well. This is ideal for after-work drinks – the bar dabbles in innovative cocktails – and some light nibbles.

Business & event facilities

Being primarily a business hotel, The Den has a range of spaces that can be hired for business and board meetings. The ballroom is ideal for large gathering. The Amphi, the hotel’s outdoor area is also available for corporate and private events such as parties or product launches.

Leisure facilities

At the lobby level, there’s the Play House, with a pool table and digital game consoles. The poolside at an upper level has gazebos to unwind in and a sleek infinity pool. This level leads to the fitness centre and the small, but well equipped spa, the Sanctuary. These leisure facilities are just what the busy corporate traveller may look for at the end of the working day.

Wow Factor

The Den is by the reputed Dan group of hotels from Israel and high international standards are evident in the various aspects of the hotel. The warm, personalized service is one of these aspects and the General Manager, Vinesh Gupta, leads a truly inspired team.

We at StayEatSee also love the Cave, a movie-screening space at lobby level. Grab a beer and popcorn and kick back. How cool is that!

Suited for 

The business traveller who has to be based in Whitefield. The suites and larger rooms are also good for families and the Den’s staff ensure children are given a great experience as well

StayEatSee Verdict

The Den scores – with its contemporary design that’s infused with traditional elements, its genuinely warm service, and Layla, for super Mediterranean fare. It ticks the boxes for the business traveller, but can be a happy place to stay for couples and families who don’t mind being away from the centre of the city.