Epoque Hotel — Hotel in Bucharest

It’s my third year coming back to Epoque and I seem to end up spending about a month every year here. It’s the best hotel in Romania — and truly a Relais & Châteaux property — mostly because of the amazing staff. No one on the team has left during my time as a patron, and that’s remarkable. It really speaks of the great management team and the people working here.

I miss the old chef but the new restaurant management has really picked up where things left off. L’Atelier now changes the menu monthly and have a few great hits with every iteration. I’m glad to see Edmond, Luca, Bogdan and the rest of the restaurant team leading the client facing efforts and delivering a spectacular level of service every single night. They never skip a beat. Their knowledge of wine, ingredients and dishes is extensive and they all take the time to explain everything and teach me new things in a very friendly manner. Michelin star restaurants often have the assembly line feel to them because they try to max out seatings, but I never felt this at L’Atelier. No matter how busy it gets, they still take the time to pay attention to every guest and it never feels rushed. It feels natural and personal.

Then there’s the bar staff. Stefan and Razvan are world class mixologists and they never failed to impress my guests which is why I take most of my meetings at the hotel bar or restaurant since I know we’re in good hands whether we want privacy or a more social atmosphere. Everything these people do screams of old world hospitality and understated charm that’s hard to put into words. They’re real professionals, the type you mostly only see in movies today. Natural, without being pretentious like most staff at other world class properties.

The front desk and associated team is always on point with whatever guests need, and I’ve never heard a no from any of the team members, ever. I needed urgent laundry service, special sports equipment transfers to and from the airport with custom itineraries, medicine picked up from the pharmacy etc. They always act like concerned and attentive friends. Bogdan, Adrian, Andrei, Doru, Eduard and their colleagues are like the glue that keep everything together.

I haven’t met the maintenance team and everyone behind the scenes in the kitchen or on the housekeeping team, but the property and rooms I’ve stayed in where always spotless and everything worked all the time.

The spa is chill and relaxing. The patio is a very nice spot in the summer and autumn evenings, especially because there’s no traffic on the hotel’s street. I vaguely remember the breakfast was more impressive in the past years but this might be just me.

You can tell Epoque is really a team effort. As someone that spends more than 6 months a year in hotels, I find this rather unique and I credit all of it to the longevity of the team and the way they uphold their reputation. These people really care, and it makes the hotel a really great property to visit. I hope it lasts. Thanks for making me feel at...

Situated in a tranquil alcove near the verdant Cismigiu Park, the Epoque Hotel emerges as a pinnacle of luxury and exclusivity in Bucharest. As the city's sole representative of the esteemed Relais & Châteaux collection.

The hotel's location is unparalleled, offering serene quietude while being mere steps away from the bustling heart of Bucharest. The old city center, with its vibrant mix of restaurants, shops, museums, and entertainment options, is conveniently within walking distance. This proximity allows guests to effortlessly immerse themselves in the cultural richness of Romania's capital.

Architecturally, the Epoque Hotel is a sight to behold. Its façade is a testament to the exquisite Brancoveanean style, which marries traditional Romanian elements with old-world charm. This iconic exterior sets the stage for the sophistication that awaits within.

Upon entering, one is greeted by rooms that exude an air of elegance, with some boasting charming mini terraces that offer a private haven to relax and unwind. Each room is nicely appointed, providing a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. That said, I didn't think the rooms were as refined as I was expecting.

A highlight of the Epoque Hotel is undoubtedly its spa. Adorned with stunning mosaic artworks, the spa (and the pool area) offers a sanctuary for rejuvenation and relaxation. It stands out not just for its services, but as an artistic space that enhances the overall experience of staying at Epoque.

Dining at the hotel is an experience in itself. Breakfast on the outdoor patio is a delightful way to start the day, offering both exquisite cuisine and views. The atmosphere here, especially on a sunny day, is unmatched.

The hotel's bar and lounge area epitomize classic contemporary style. With a mini grand piano and an elegant candelabra on display, the space invites guests to unwind in a sophisticated setting. The lighting throughout the hotel is thoughtfully designed to complement its aesthetic, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the lounge's artwork, which celebrates some of Romania’s most prolific figures across various disciplines, including artists, musicians, poets, and even a politician. This curated collection adds a layer of cultural depth to the hotel, enriching the guest experience by connecting them to Romania's rich artistic heritage.

In conclusion, the Epoque Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it's a portal to the sophistication of bygone eras. Its prime location, breathtaking architecture, amenities, and commitment to celebrating Romanian culture make it one of the best hotel experiences...

The top-floor suite was lovely and roomy, though when we arrived, the outdoor furniture hadn’t been set up. The location is ideal, and while the façade of the hotel is beautiful, don’t be fooled—the interior feels stuck in 2010. The interior decor is unimpressive. The bed was firm, creaky, and I could feel the moving around of my spouse easily.

We arrived on a Sunday, and I was surprised to find that the doorman, bellhop, concierge, and front desk were all the same person. This does not reflect the standards of a five-star hotel. At best, this is a solid four-star property.

The bar is a charming space, but the breakfast was underwhelming—just a standard à la carte menu with no continental buffet. They also don’t offer laundry service on Sundays. The spa had several broken features and felt like a relic from another century. What surprised us most, however, was the level of service. In fact, as soon as we found out that a Corinthia had recently opened nearby, we packed up and left—even forfeiting a night’s payment. It was worth it. If you’re looking for five-star treatment, this is not the place. Another example: when I tried to cancel our remaining night, the same front desk staff member told me, “You have to do it on the app.” I was standing right there, at the front desk! Like I said, not five star. The entire conversation felt like I had been bothering him (he was on his phone when I approached).

In summary, it’s misleading to call this a five-star hotel. To me, five stars imply a doorman, a dedicated concierge, attentive front desk staff, and basic services like laundry—even on weekends. Epoque, don’t rest on your laurels. You were probably great 15 years ago. The bar has been raised by the competition. You are...