I had the opportunity to check out the new Chambers Hotel on 9th and Hennepin last night. We were invited to a event showcasing some of its offerings. Things I liked...they style and architecture are magnificent (A-). Very crisp, boutique euro hotels. White walls with modern furnishings, artwork and as they promote it "the ultimate Luxury Art Hotel". The suites we viewed had beautiful views of the city and a nice sized balcony- could easily see myself relaxing with the sounds of the street below. The bathrooms are very modern european- colbalt glass subway tiles, stainless steel fixtures and ceramic sinks. Light flows throughout. The eye opener was the walk in showers with the rainfall fixture grid- their water bills are going to be high! If your not a shower person they have a large soaking tub as well. The only reason it was downgraded to a minus was due to the suites we were able to see did not provide handicap access to the balconies- they were all step overs.
Chef Jean Georges http://www.jean-georges.com had samplings of grey goose vodka martini's paired with a variety of different appetizers. The mushroom eggroll's were very crisp and good. Favorite martini was the Ginger Lime. The pork satay's were well flavored.
Some challenges were ...
service- they ran out of glasses, passing of the hor d'oeurves were concentrated in a few areas and did not circulate to the whole crowd, some of the service was poor in behavior towards the guests due to understaffing?? One server actually rolled his eyes at us...and that is just unprofessional. They did have a large crowd enter in around the same time about an 30-45 minutes into the event.
Some pearls were ...
greeting- excellent service from the doorman, receptionist- they actually smiled and gave a warm welcome to the guests as we entered- impressive.
service (C+see above)- with good there is bad and thank god there was some real stars who comprehend the art of customer service- be it a smile so they look as if they are enjoying themselves, interacting with the guests positively- taking a minute to see how they can be of service to you is always impressive
food-(B+) the appetizers that I did get to try were fabulous- downgraded for reasons listed above.
Style, architecture (A-)
Chambers is definately on my list to visit again- I'm looking forward to trying the restaurant especially after the sales the bartender gave and the samplings we tried. Some of the challenges I think will work themselves out as they continue forward.
Overall B+
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