I slipped out yesterday for an hour and headed over to the Ritz-Carlton myself. I think it’s been established that I generally like things, and guess what? I liked the Ritz, too. And I’m pretty sure you’re going to like it as well. Here’s why: They’re just so nice.
The valet introduced himself (Fernando, hello), then another gentleman named Gerard guided us inside to the Rattlesnake Bar, where we were served a fantastic dirty vodka martini from Cedrick (handshake). Yum.
A girl I spoke to last night who works at the Hotel Crescent Court says the Ritz brought in most of its employees from other Ritzs around the world/country. In her words, “It’s kind of like a cult, but a good cult.” She also said they didn’t do much local hiring, but maybe this isn’t that surprising? I don’t have a clue how hotels like this do their hiring/training, etc., just repeating what I heard. Dean Fearing was running around in his chef’s coat, hair flying wildly, shaking babies and kissing hands. The bar wasn’t busy, and the best surprise, other than the fantastic martini, was the price: $11. (Adam, insert exclamation here. But this is a fancy hotel bar, and I was betting they were going to charge $15.)
The hotel lobby is plush and gorgeous, and the bathrooms off the bar have a cool feature. When you turn the lock, a great big red circle with a line through it lights up on your door, signaling to others that this one’s taken.
Another great thing: on the way out to your car, a table is set up with a big pitcher of iced tea, cups, and a bowl full of tiny boxes of delicious spiced nuts. Who wouldn’t love that?
And, to David Milligan, who mentioned someone was wondering about the opening party — it’s happening the weekend of September 14 and 15. Until then…
