Grand Hotel de Londres

As a longtime Istanbul resident, I was most disappointed when I visited the terrace for a drink with three out of town visitors. We arrived around 11.30p.m. were completely ignored for 5 mins (there were three other people in the bar). Eventually, when I went to the waiter to order, he told me that they were closed. I asked what was closing time….it was 30 mins. later. I said that my friends had come a long way, that we would have a drink and leave before their closing time. The response was rude and there was a strong reluctance to serve. I prevailed and we were served with a COLD reluctance. This was not my first time having similar experiences at the hotel but until now. On another occasion while there to celebrate a friend’s birthday, we asked for a menu to be told that they don’t have a physical menu, so we asked them to just tell us a few of the options. They refused to list them and said we could read their Qcode if we wanted to find out. There have also been other similar episodes but it is a location that I like and want to like, so I have overlooked them. However, they need to change their staff if they want to gain a loyal customer base. On the way out, I explained the experience to a person who claimed to be the manager. He was completely unsympathetic and, like his pathetic waiters, just didn’t want to bother.

I went to the roof top bar of the hotel with three friends. We arrived at 23.40 and waited for about 5 minutes before calling a waiter. He told us that they were closed. We asked about time they closed and we were told midnight. A friend pointed out that it wasn’t 12 yet. The waiter then brought us our drinks. The manner and approach of staff was so lacking in hospitality and professionalism- so unlike my usual experience in Istanbul. Luckily , our visiting friends had a wonderful week in Istanbul but this was a disappointing last night.

Built in 1892, this hotel is quite interesting. I felt like I was still living in the times of the Ottoman Empire, with the rooms decorated so beautifully, and the common areas splendidly adorned. But, admittedly, it does need a lot of updating, with tired-looking furnishings. Nevertheless, I still give it a 4 star. Staff was efficient. Location was good for exploring Istiklal, the famous pedestrian street. Trams and funicular were close by. Wonderful restaurants in the area abound. Rooftop bar is very nice.

We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful hotel; the decor is charming and walking inside feels like taking a step back in time. The rooms are at excellent value and all the staff are extremely attentive and helpful. The rooftop terrace is fantastic, with a breathtaking view of the Golden Horn. We couldn’t recommend this hotel more highly, and will definitely be coming back!