Contributor/ Woody Anderson
Best Known For
The Claridges is an iconic post-deco hotel that was built in 1952 and still retains its old-world charm. Built in the heart of Lutyen’s Delhi, the hotel’s plush green lawns were a favourite of India’s first Prime Minister, Mr.Nehru, who liked to enjoy evening tea within the grounds. No relation to the London hotel of the same name, this celebrated hotel was the place to be seen in its heyday and was modernised by way of a major refurbishment in 2011.
The Good Stuff
Boasting the largest selection of Vodka on offer in the whole of Delhi, Aura Bar looks like it should be in a New York penthouse, and is an essential drinking stop for any guest. We tried the Bloody Mary before we ventured for our dinner reservation; I’d go as far as saying it was the best Bloody Mary Ive ever tasted! We ate at Jade, The Claridges’ contemporary Chinese restaurant. With over 40 types of dim sum on offer we were spoilt for choice, and the wine list matched the hefty menu selection.
The Vibe
The Claridges effortlessly mixes business and pleasure, and is seen as a destination for any discerning Delhiite, whether residing at the hotel or not. The pool was a place to kick back and relax with its sun deck, loungers, cabanas and bar serving up a tropical array of cocktails.
Inside the Hotel – 7/10
Boasting four restaurants: Saville a romantic Mediterranean offering in the garden, Dahab serving up Indian street food from the Punjab, Pickwicks which offered a vast selection of international dishes and one of the cities oldest patisseries; The Claridges certainly delivers a worldly culinary experience for any tastebud. For your mind, body and soul, the spa and gym oozes luxury, whilst the newly opened Silhouette takes care of all your hair and beauty needs.
Outside the Hotel – 7/10
Mayhem awaits you on the streets of Delhi with its population of 16.7 million people, but luckily there’s a wealth of attractions to distract you from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The Mughal sandstone Red Fort is a must see, Humayun’s Tomb which was the inspiration for the Taj Mahal is only a stones throw away, and the various bazaars and shopping emporiums are on hand to lighten you of a few rupees. But to see India’s countrymen at their most passionate, head to an India Premier League (IPL) cricket game. The local team is the Delhi Daredevils and who knows, you might even spot a Bollywood superstar or two.
