Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

“Once Again, Superior Hospitality”

I've stayed at and reviewed this beautiful property probably a dozen times. Invariably (without looking for past reviews), in spite of the occasional misstep or an internal system hiccup, it's a 5-star review from me. And it's pretty much a no-brainer each time, given it's location. Pick a view, an… more

I've stayed at and reviewed this beautiful property probably a dozen times. Invariably (without looking for past reviews), in spite of the occasional misstep or an internal system hiccup, it's a 5-star review from me. And it's pretty much a no-brainer each time, given it's location. Pick a view, any view. Harbor or sea, no matter the vantage point, every room or suite that I've stayed in owns it's view. Not to mention proximity to the saltwater; close enough to hear and feel, almost taste the briny environment. I was introduced to the hotel years ago when I tagged along with my wife on a conference. They do lots of group business here and it's easy to see why, although how you keep your people's attention indoors when the plaza beckons with almost always consistent Peninsula weather is a mystery. This trip I took my kids and their kids, 14 of us, which required a little more trip management than usual and when I asked the staff for assistance, they stepped up. Bella at the concierge desk, Matthew at the front desk, and Maria (sp?) with F&B, all available, present, and detail oriented. And despite what I perceive as less-than-optimal attention by the outfit that owns and operates it (I personally have reached out to them in the past with no response whatsoever) the staff delivers. Aside from the location, room size, quality furnishings, comfortable and updated mattress, cleanliness, and response to requests all exceed expectations. The not-so-great? I've always encountered "system" beefs with food and beverage, especially reservations and flexibility. I don't think these are staff or training issues but rather home office edict and limitations. I think they have improved over the years but still fall behind. For instance, I think a property of this stature with scale to self-manage effectively in order to better serve guests should be able to avoid employing third parties in crucial service areas like F&B. Open Table with a one-size-fits-all approach is a poor substitute to self-management, in my opinion. I was surprised when I was able to make a day-before change to move a reservation for my large party from Schooner's to Coastal Kitchen. I wish I hadn't. Thoroughly familiar with and satisfied with both the service and food at Schooner's, not to mention the option to dine outside on the deck, I chose to try something different, unaware that Coastal Kitchen is price fix. With a 12 year old, 2 teens and 2 vegetarians, that was my mistake. The value simply wasn't there and the fun-factor was missing. Our 2 other dinners at Schooner's and a local little restaurant, Sandbar, were way more fitting. Love the rooftop tubs and spa, and kudos to Kristin for a wonderful massage. If you get the opportunity, you should look at booking here.

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