The Promenade by Hidesign in Pondicherry, clearly is the height of seaside sophistication. Located in the most picturesque part of the “French Quarter”, The Promenade is perhaps the only Oceanfront luxury boutique hotel in all of Pondicherry.
New world elegance and grace in an unmatched, seaside setting, The Promenade is a hot celebrity on the local hobnobbing circuit. The neoclassical façade blends in with the surrounding French architecture, the interiors are sleek and modern that gazes dreamily out onto the big blue Bay of Bengal. The common areas are not too small, but clever contemporary design that creates instant intimacy, style and bags of natural panache. Beach chic at its best !
The rooms are done up in white hues with pops of tan & turquoise wonderfully evocative of Hidesign’s style. The three large wooden shutters opens up to the stunning views of the sea evoking a dose of serenity and calmness into the proceedings.
Breakfast is a traditional buffet of different breads, pastries and local fare – enjoyed at Blueline, all day dining restaurant or at the hotel’s beautifully landscaped porch overlooking the sea. But nothing beats the Asian cuisine at Bay of Buddha, conjured by the impossibly scenic restaurant packed pretty much from sundowners making advance reservations absolutely essential. Think dimsums, Khmer roast, Korean bbq, Rendang, Nasi goring and other gourmet Asian dishes, crafted with passion, overlooking the shimmering waters of Bay of Bengal from the terrace.
Alternatively, dining at the newly launched WildFish Bistro – Pondicherry’s first exclusive sea food restaurant is an absolute delight. Chef Harish Rao’s cuisine is both inventive and delicious, based on locally sourced high-quality products along with sustainable fishing practices. Try the lobster bisque, citrus and herb marinated prawns and squid, Yeral varuval and Prawn Malai curry served with parotta and/or Kal dosa. Dishes are delightfully presented and there is an impressive selection of desserts that’s not to be missed. The wine & cocktail list is impressive and so is the very knowledgeable mixologist. Cinematic views across the bay and the old lighthouse are seriously distracting.
One level down from Wildfish Bistro is The Storyteller’s Bar whose architecture is a delightful mix of the city’s French colonial tropical vibe with traces of minimalistic asceticism. The interactive Wall of Stories that highlight the memorabilia, props and interesting anecdotes from travelers and other locals definitely stands out.
All in all, The Promenade with its startling sea views, top class gastronomic experience is the perfect luxury address in Pondicherry.
Vishal Fernandes is a seasoned traveller and a widely recognized blogger who has established himself as an authority on all things luxury. He loves wearing a blazer and has a fine collection of brogues. Vishal can mainly be found travelling the world and stopping off at some of the best hotels sampling their food & wines, or at some of the most prolific events. Along with his love for Food, Travel and wines, comes a massive enthusiasm for cars & watches.
