Hotel Review – W Atlanta Buckhead

I recently completed a two-night stay at the new W Atlanta – Buckhead. The hotel recently opened after a year-long conversion from its former life as a Crowne Plaza Hotel. The lobby decor is a bit brighter than most W Hotels I’ve visited. One of the first things I noticed was that without fail, every employee I passed went out of their way to greet me and welcome me to the hotel. Not that other W’s aren’t equipped with pleasant staff, but this one seemed to place a focus on making sure hotel staff made guests feel welcome.

Check-in

Check-in was staffed with only one person, but I was the only person checking in so that did not cause any delay. The gentlemen behind the desk was helpful and pleasant. He thanked me for being a Starwood Preferred Guest Gold member, and offered me my choice of rooms; high floor, low floor, etc. I took a Wonderful Room on the 8th floor. As we completed check-in formalities, the desk agent gave me the rundown on hotel features, restaurant locations, bars and such. With that, I was on my way to the room.

The Room

My 8th floor Wonderful Room was located near the end of the hallway, at just about the right distance from the elevator and ice machine. The entry foyer is equipped with a marble floor which it shares with the bathroom vanity area. The room did not seem as large as the same category of room at the W Atlanta Midtown, but was by no means too small. It had everything a business traveler needs including a large desk equipped with plenty of electrical outlets. Both wired and wireless internet access were available. The 32″ plasma TV was fantastic, and was mounted on the wall where all plasma TV’s should be. The W feather bed (King size) was comfortable. The room is also
equipped with an over-priced munchie/wet bar.

The bathroom was interesting. The vanity area was essentially part of the room with a sliding panel door separating the toilet and the shower from the rest of the room. I suppose the shower is of European origin with a half glass panel enclosing the area, but with no curtain or door. I don’t think I’m doing a good job of describing it. Just know that the “rainforest” shower rocks and even though there’s no curtain or door, closing the sliding door that separates the shower area and toilet from the rest of the room kept the temperature comfortable.

Dining Options

I did not eat in the hotel restaurant, Market, but it looked pretty well attended each night. The hotel refers to the lobby bar area, and entire lobby area collectively as the Living Room, and some food options are available there. I ordered a burger which was fantastic. But be sure to check the wine list before you order. I asked the bartender for a Cabernet. The Cabernet I received was wonderful, but not worth $18 dollars a glass. Not a complaint, just an observation. Of course, I had 2 glasses. If you’re looking for a little more action, you can step up to Whiskey Blue. I was a little busy to check out the ultra-chic bar scene, but it’s there if you want to. Your status as a guest of the hotel will get you in the door. I think the rooftop location would be nice, especially in warmer months. If you’re jonesing for a little morning coffee, you can pick it up in the Living Room starting at 6:30am.

General Amenities

The W Atlanta Buckhead has a relatively well-equipped fitness center which they call SWEAT on the second floor. There’s also a pool area called…wait for it…. “WET.” There’s also a business center which offers what you’d expect including printing, scanning and fax services.

The Bottom Line

The W Atlanta Buckhead is a new hotel in a very nice area of the city. It is steps from the Buckhead MARTA Rail Station and Lenox Square Mall. Numerous dining and drinking options are a short walk away. The staff I interacted with were extremely helpful and had none of the “I’m too cool to talk to you” pretentiousness that you sometimes find at a trendy hotel like W. If business or pleasure take you to Atlanta, consider the W Atlanta Buckhead. I think you will be pleased with your choice.