I stayed at the Hard Rock a couple of weeks ago. I have stayed there a few times in the past as I run a company that has an office right across the street. They are normally nice if a bit aloof, but after my experience last week I am warning others not to stay there if travelling for business. At 10 o'clock in the evening I returned to the hotel with some important business guests to have a drink at the bar. At the time, approximately 40% of the seats were taken and the remaining tables were open, but with signs saying "reserved." Despite requests to be seated, we were told that the
seats were reserved for more important guests who had requested bottle service. We tried to protest, but were rebuffed. We promptly left and had our drink at another establishment. When I returned after 11 pm, the "reserved" tables were still open (not surprising on a random Wednesday evening in August). It's clear to me that they are trying to be hip by keeping themselves "exclusive," but this is not the experience you want when you are trying to conduct business.
Worst of all, when I complained I was told to contact their Director of Rooms, Carlyle Robinson. I sent him an e-mail detailing what had happened. He responded by apologizing for the "inconvenience" (I assure you my embarassment was a bit more than that), and asking if he could call me to discuss what happened. Despite my busy schedule, I called him and left a message. He never returned the call.
If you want a fun, hip, centrally located place to go for the weekend, the Hard Rock is fine. If you are going on business and want the type of service that professionals expect, look elsewhere!!!
hotel reviews