In this age where new establishments appear faster than you can visit the trending one, it’s comforting to know that a few have overcame the test of time through consistency and familiarity. One such hotel in Manila is Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, which has been operating for 17 years. Despite its age, the 4-star, 210-room hotel continues to stay classy and keeps a level of service that exceeds expectations. It has maintained its position as one of the preferred hotels in Pasig City. You know that old woman whom you say has aged gracefully? That’s Richmonde.
Located within the Ortigas Business District, Richmonde continues to give guests what is traditionally found in hotels: marble floors, creaky headboards, heavy furniture, upholstered chairs, and matching pieces. Accessible to a lot of corporate and commercial institutions in the area, the hotel is also a good choice for quick business trips. Read on to find out more about Richmonde Hotel Ortigas.
The Junior Suite
During our stay at Richmonde Hotel, we were billeted into a Junior Suite (check rates), which features a Queen-size bed, a workstation, an en suite bathroom, and a living area. The suite is quite spacious with enough room to walk around, receive guests, or set up a small table for in-room dining.
The room has large windows that peek out into the city, and fill the space with enough light in the morning. The bed was comfortable, although a bit softer than I would’ve liked, but the pillows and sheets were nice and clean. A lampshade on each side, a painting overhead, a divan by the foot of the bed—it is the classic hotel design, no funky pieces, no splash of vibrant colors. There's a living area where you can dine or entertain some guests. The desk provides business travelers a comfy place to catch up on some work.
Small and straightforward, the marble bathroom has an alcove tub, hot and cold shower, a toilet, and a basin complete with Richmonde-branded toiletries.
Other Rooms
The Deluxe Room, the second lowest category, is a spacious room with the same amenities as the Junior Suite except for the living area and bathtub. It's available in both Queen and twin bed configurations.
Richmonde Hotel also has One-Bedroom and Two-Bedroom Suites, which come with a living room, a dining area, and a kitchenette equipped with a stove, microwave, and refrigerator, as well as other cooking equipment—perfect for long-staying travelers who want to prepare their own meal.
Dining
Checked-in guests can enjoy buffet breakfast at Richmonde Café, located on the 2nd level of the hotel. I like that the spread is compact—with simple yet satisfying choices of breads, cheeses, and salads for starters; an omelet and a soup station; an array of breakfast staples like bacon, sausages, and daing na bangus; noodles and dim sum; and cakes and fruits for dessert. Business travelers compose a big chunk of Richmonde guests, so most of the time, these people are in a hurry and the last thing they need is a massive buffet spread when mostly they are okay with a few quick bites.
Richmonde Café is quite small, but there are extra tables in the 2nd level lobby that’s just in front of the restaurant. Please note that a dress code is strictly imposed: no bedroom slippers, bathrobes, and sleeveless shirts (for men) are allowed. Expect an ambience that is quite intimate and prim.
Apart from the buffet (daily breakfast, weekday lunch, Friday dinner), the restaurant also offers an a la carte menu composed of international cuisines. Try the generous Beef Medallions which come with hefty sides like soup, salad, potatoes, rice, and vegetables. If you prefer seafood, the Norwegian Salmon is a delicious choice—exquisite fish served with beurre blanc sauce, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes. You can choose to dine in your room, as well.
Craving for a light snack and a cup of coffee? The Lobby Café serves a selection of cakes and pastries—including the signature Richmonde Ensaymada. I swear, you need to try this humongous, delicious spectacle! It’s simply the best ensaymada out there.
Should you find yourself bored, longing for a drink and some entertainment, The Exchange Bar just might help save your night. With guest performers and a reasonably priced Happy Hour promo, it's a good spot where you can end your day.
Other Amenities
Guests at Richmonde love the hotel’s indoor heated pool (4th level), which is a cozy spot to relax and unwind whether in the morning or just before you go to bed. If you are lucky, you can have this area to yourself, just as we did during our stay.
On the same floor is the Health Club, equipped with resistance machines and strength training equipment that would surely appeal to the fitness buffs. Gym instructors are on duty to assist guests with their exercise programs. Guests can also use the sauna after their workouts for free.
Richmonde Hotel also has small treatment rooms in the 14th floor, where you can enjoy Shiatsu or Swedish massage treatments from the hotel’s trained therapists. They offer reflexology sessions too, perfect for those looking to soothe their exhausted legs and feet. It’s strictly by appointment, so make sure you call and set up a schedule, ideally upon checking in. the treatments can be performed in-room as well.
Other facilities include a Business Center where guests can avail of secretarial, courier, and other business services. Meeting rooms are available for a fee, and there are private office rentals as well.
Richmonde Ortigas: Simple and Timeless
The modern traveler’s needs are ever-changing, but if you are one who is looking for all the basic offerings executed the classic way, Richmonde Hotel’s simplicity and straightforwardness is the right fit for you. A stay at Richmonde promises comfort and convenience, as well as proximity to everything city has in store for you.
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Richmonde Hotel Ortigas
21 San Miguel Ave., Ortigas Center, Pasig City
+632.638.7777
Criteria
Facilities
Service
Dining
Ambience
Location
TOTAL | Rating
3/5
4.5/5
4/5
3/5
4.5/5
3.8
|
Comments
The rooms are spacious with all the necessities for a comfortable stay.
Knowledgeable and professional staff.
Simple yet delicious breakfast buffet; signature ensaymada is a must-try.
The hotel is elegant and simple.
Near commercial, transport, dining, and business centers.
A great, affordable hotel choice in Ortigas CBD with knowledgeable staff. |
Points for improvement:
- Upgrading some room amenities will give the hotel a fresh look.
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Recommendations:
Have you stayed at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas? How was your experience?
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