ITC Gardenia, Bangalore - Reviewed by Priya Bala

Location

ITC Gardenia enjoys a premium location at one end of Richmond Road and is right in the middle of the central business district. The bustling stretches of MG Road,  Residency Road and Brigade Road are minutes away. Located 28 km from the international airport, ITC Gardenia allows guests to explore the shopping and eating out options of downtown Bangalore, including those at the upscale UB City.

The Lotus pavilion set in the central court echoes the spirit of the historic Sri Rangapattanam. The sloping roof that express different levels, breaks up the building block and places the hotel in context by their reference to the traditional architect Bengaluru. The whole facade is in clay bricks which go hand-in-hand with the garden environment and subtly merging with it. Each of the exquisitely designed and magnificently appointed 292 rooms and suites, including the Presidential Suite with one indoor pool, blend seamlessly with the garden setting.

Rooms and suites

The hotel has 292 room, including suites, which start from Club rooms and go on to luxury Club Suites. You can expect every amenity in all rooms and the suites are a splash-out experience, with a living room, dining area and large balconies. The carefully put together room amenities – from fruit bowls to chocolates -- make a big difference as well. In the suites, you’ll be impressed with the choice of art and the detailing in elements such as the bed covers and cushions.

One of the best parts of the ITC Gardenia rooms is the attention paid to the bed, pillows and a sleep kit that includes aromatherapy oils and even tips for a good night’s sleep is a lovely touch. This hotel certainly goes all the way to ensure restful sleep for guests, most of who are business travellers.

Dining options

ITC has set standards in five-star dining for several decades now. ITC Gardenia is no different and its restaurants offer a fabulous array of cuisines. Cubbon Pavilion is the hotel’s all-day restaurant and opens onto an attractive vertical garden. This is also the venue for the hotel’s popular Sunday brunch.

For Indian fare, head to Kebabs & Kurries, which serves classic dishes from ancient Indian kitchens. Tandoor dishes and a to-die-for dal makhni are among the star items here.

Ottimo, also at lobby level, is an award-winning Italian restaurant where you can savour more than just pasta and pizza. The chef team here whips up some of the best Italian fare, combining classics with contemporary dishes.
 

Edo is hands down Bangalore’s best Japanese restaurant, known for its authentic presentation of superlative ingredients. The Izakaya style dining here is a very special experience.

Bars

Highland Nectar, initially conceived as a single malt bar, is now a more casual, relaxed destination, serving an array of cocktails and some lovely nibbles. It’s the perfect spot for pre-dinner drinks.

Lotus Pavilion is probably one of the most charming spaces in this part of town, a pavilion inspired by traditional architecture and sitting amidst water features. Whether it’s a coffee meeting or a romantic date with a bottle of wine, this is a great place to be.

Business & event facilities

ITC Gardenia has a 24-hour business centre and a huge array of meeting rooms and banquet halls. The Mysore Hall is one of the city’s largest and is the top choice for premium events – from launches to awards functions. The terrace lawn is also much in demand for food and wine events and weddings.

Leisure facilities

Kaya Kalp is the ITC’s spa and wellness brand. The ITC Gardenia has 7 treatment rooms, offering a range of treatments – from Ayurvedic to Thai and Swedish massages, using high quality products and offered by well-trained staff. A session at the spa is highly recommended for anyone wanting a stress-busting therapy.

Wow Factor

Whether it’s the architecture of the hotel or its various operations, ITC Gardenia goes by the mantra of ‘Forward to Green, Back to Nature.’ The hotel’s environment-friendly practices such as Energy Efficiency, Zero Solid Waste management definitely need applause.

Suited for 

Given its location and facilities, ITC Gardenia is a great choice for business travellers. Service levels ensure it can be a good destination for families on holiday as well.

StayEatSee Verdict

It’s an ITC brand. You can expect a very special sort of service here. International standards are met at this hotel that has a very Indian heart.