Flagstaff Gardens Hotel — Hotel in Melbourne

Let’s begin with the facts: no embellishment, no exaggeration, just unvarnished truth. Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens is, in a word, exceptional. Though I’ve spent the past three years residing in close proximity to this establishment, I’ve never actually stayed there, which, upon reflection, is a travesty. But I digress. My experience at their breakfast buffet which is a culinary mecca for the discerning connoisseur and is the one that demands recognition.

The spread of breakfast offerings is nothing short of impressive. Eggs, cooked with an artistry that defies the very nature of breakfast, glisten under the gentle scrutiny of a morning light. Bacon, crispy and perfectly crisped, defies the laws of physics, achieving an impossible texture. The banana cakes are so delectable that even my mind normally consumed by more pressing thoughts such as theoretical physics momentarily suspends its judgment. Yogurts, toasts, sausages, and even the salmon , each dish, perfectly balanced, combines culinary precision with comfort. The mere thought of it is enough to induce an involuntary grin. Bravo, Radisson, for mastering the alchemy of breakfast.

However, the true gem of this establishment is the hostess, who upon request, slices fruit with a grace and efficiency that is reminiscent of a highly trained professional at the peak of their craft. In a world where simple tasks often become unnecessarily convoluted, she effortlessly delivered on what might seem like a minor request but was, in fact, a profound moment of hospitality. She is a paragon of customer service, and I’d go so far as to suggest she may be an underappreciated hero in this institution.

Moreover, I’ve had the distinct pleasure of using Radisson as my pickup and drop-off hotel during various day trips. While this may sound like a privilege reserved for the elite, I assure you it is a simple convenience that Radisson graciously accommodates. Receptionists, in a move of stunning kindness, have provided me with access to restrooms despite my non-guest status, an act of generosity so profound that I briefly wondered if I was being tested for humanity’s capacity for empathy. Kudos, Radisson, for your openness.

Now, let’s address the unfortunate reality: I wish I could stay at this hotel. Oh, how I yearn to bask in the full glory of Radisson’s accommodations, from the linen sheets to the lavish towels, to whatever marvel of engineering might greet me in my room. But alas, I remain an outsider looking in, limited to fleeting visits for breakfast and restroom privileges.

To summarize: Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens is a shining beacon of excellence in hospitality. It is truly an establishment deserving of a five-star rating, perhaps the only hotel in the area that manages to transcend the ordinary and achieve the extraordinary. But, as I sit here, eating my breakfast of champions and forever remaining on the outside looking in, I offer this review with a heavy heart and an eager anticipation for the day I can finally stay here, rather than merely experiencing their glory as an...

In my personal opinion, having stayed within venues of the international Radisson chain where they are most accommodating and generous; my wide eyed hope was downed and experience as guest with Radisson on Flagstaff was quite disappointing and quite frankly should be considered a 2-maybe-3 star establishment.

Upon entry of the venue and first judgement I had to imagine the ownership of the franchise and what calibre of hoteliers they may be (having not met them), I notice the horrific attempt of Christmas decorating and the poorly chosen and outdated furniture.

I am not biased nor privileged in the slightest yet I wish to voice my opinion and it is simply formed from relatively small observations, giving a true outlook for future guests and an opportunity for the owners and management to undertake some continuous improvement in many things such as:

-Poor food: Culinarily depressing, reheated and sloppy attempt at creative food you would typically receive at a very small chain and with a truthful, non angry opinion. Smaller venues I've stayed at as a guest have provided much more superior offerings (Buffet, A La Carte and Room Service). As for the prices, management of the corresponding departments should consider the food and services regarding food - some restructuring and logical planning of menus and costing.

-Outdated decor: You see it everywhere and for prices of lodging given at Radisson Flagstaff one would take the furniture and decor thought a little less serious. I'll conclude this section with nothing more than that if you need somewhere to sleep for a night and not spoil a loved one nor entertain, Radisson Flagstaff may be your selection.

-Staff: Pleasantries at times and some smiling, God forbid you ask for some basics and receive a look or flat response without urgency or willingness. I didn't bother making usual requests as it may have put some staff out, although the sincerely kind, lovely and seemingly busy girl who bought up my late night room service order of (an old, Microwave reheated curry and sad, packet Roti/Naan- Sloppily priced at $35 with a $4 tray charge) was the kindest interaction I was lucky to experience, truly. Management may need a Chef on through the nights, retraining of current night cooking staff or removing late night offerings?

-All in all: Poor and truly disappointing attempt at services made seemingly easy at each Radisson I've been fortunate enough to enjoy - except this one. The venue may be right for you should you be spending a night for a seminar and or someone who holds a company expenses account which covers any costs no matter what the quality or price.

My opinions expressed in my review are true accounts and not biased, honesty in services and offerings have long been swindled in Melbourne and a review means more than just generic...

I have stayed at the Radisson over numerous times - for the most part, my experience has been good, I have been treated well, and much of the reception staff as well as night manager have been nothing but kind, caring, and provided A-Class customer service. Above and beyond.

However - as I went to check in the other morning, and after confirming over the phone that an early check in would be ok, after traveling to the Melbourne CBD and attempting to check in, I had very randomly been informed that I had been 'blacklisted', due to a room smelling like smoke.

Now - typically I'd understand this concern, there have been stays at the Radisson where I have indeed smelt smoke coming from other rooms. After all, it is a 4-star hotel in the CBD, so I often let it go. However - I was not notified until check in, the morning of, that I was no longer allowed to stay there due to a decision on part of higher management.

I had then left, and requested that the reason and evidence for this blacklist be sent in person. I have not smoked in any room, and therefore wanted this in writing. I have had little response from management. None.

Therefore, I am going to duly point out some comprehensive issues over my multiple, long, extended periods staying here: Room 1010/1011 (junior suite) has had faulty mattress springs, which yes, I had booked with having guests in mind, furthermore, the coffee machine was faulty, as I had pointed out to staff, it was not fixed within a week.

Room 913, had major issues with electrical tags, which were both a fire and danger hazard. Furthermore, there was a great deal of flooding in the shower which had caused the bathroom to spill over into the room, while reception was lovely and moved me into a different room the next day, I would like to remind the Radisson that this goes against consumer law. It is indeed a major failure of services.

"You should clearly advise your customers, in advance, of any circumstances in which you may cancel their stay – for example, by an explicit term or condition in your contract" (Consumer Affairs Victoria/ACCC). I was neither informed, and rather, traveled to Melbourne. Confirmed the booking over the phone. Arrived, told to leave and I have been ignored by management since.

This is not to mention the multiple issues with cards not working, the booking system being faulty and all booking operations still ran on Windows XP, facilities not being open on time and other minor issues.

I was once a loyal customer, who was willing to perhaps gloss over these issues, as staff was so kind, caring and accommodating. But I have been treated so poorly over the past 48 hours, and would never want a hotel to put someone else through this.

I have had many good stays at the Radisson, however, I would no longer advise anyone to stay there, based...