Hotel review: The St Regis Istanbul, Turkey

Checking in to the St Regis Istanbul in Turkey.

The lobby at the St Regis Istanbul, Turkey. Courtesy Starwood Hotels

The welcome

I’m met by a handful of staff who confidently and swiftly usher me out of the cold, drizzly weather and into the lobby. My bags follow like clockwork. Check-in takes place at a desk with a beaming staff member who passes over the room key before putting me into the hands of another staffer, who escorts me to my room. On arrival at my suite, on the fourth floor, I’m met by the head butler, who shows me the room and explains the services his team can provide me 24/7. As I leave him at the door, my bag arrives – perfect timing.

The neighbourhood

This 188-room hotel is one of a selection of new luxury hotels in Istanbul. Nestled in the Nisantasi district – known as the “5th Avenue” of Istanbul – and with views of the Bosphorus, the hotel is surrounded by designer boutiques, cafes and laneways that are worth a wander.

The room

I’m staying in a superior room facing Maçka Park; it’s 42 square metres, full of light, with a good-sized work desk, a bronzed coffee table and two velvet armchairs. There’s a sliding door, but no balcony, but that’s OK at this time of year, because it’s quite nippy outside. The bed is set in front of a lilac-grey leather headboard and bedside tables add the perfect frame. The brass detailing and a glass cabinet, which houses art deco pieces, along with the original artwork and marble flooring – similar to that used in the Hagia Sophia – are all winners.

The service

The staff are pleasant and helpful, although I phone for service a couple of times and am met with a pause or an uncertain response – perhaps it’s my Australian accent that creates the confusion. At the spa, I have the same experience: the spa attendant’s lack of English-speaking ability during my hammam treatment (Dh480) combined with my lack of Turkish skills make for an interesting exchange. But across the board, the service is high-quality.

The scene

When I stay, the majority of the clientele comprises media guests. Other than that, guests appear to be sophisticated and well-to-do, and fit the business and leisure categories. It’s all high-end luxurious, but has a comfortable feel and furnishings to match.

The food

On the first night, I make a beeline for Wolfgang Puck’s signature restaurant Spago. The food is exceptional, and even for a person with restricted eating needs, I’m well catered for. I can recommend the fillet mignon of beef (Dh123), which is so tender the knife glides through it. Breakfast is also served here, and it’s good, too. Other options include the Brasserie (contemporary French cuisine with a twist) and the Petit “O” bar, which serves snacks.

Loved

The 24-hour private butler service – what a treat to be welcomed to your room and offered an unpacking service.

Hated

The barking dogs that could be heard day and night, thanks to a dog park right next to the hotel. And the mirror beside the toilet seemed an odd design choice.

The verdict

If you like luxury, high-end shopping and being close to the action, this is the spot for you.

The bottom line

Superior rooms at the St Regis Istanbul (www.stregis.com/istanbul; 0090 212 368 0000) cost from Dh1,774 per night, including breakfast and taxes.

Follow us @TravelNational

Follow us on Facebook for discussions, entertainment, reviews, wellness and news.