Apart from several other attractive things, what really sets Mumbai apart from other cities in India is it’s beautifully pristine beaches. Waves lashing across the sands are a sight that makes you believe all over again in the magic of nature! The JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is set on the sands of North Mumbai’s popular Juhu beach. I was recently invited to this beautiful hotel by the general manager, Sharad Puri.
Conveniently located only 20 minutes from Mumbai’s international and domestic airports, JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is a favourite among both business and leisure travellers. Fusing contemporary with tradition, architects Vijay Raheja & Associates have incorporated elements like Rajasthani sandstone and sculptures carved by skilful craftsmen from Jaipur giving the hotel an international yet ethnic look.
The interior with its ornate artefacts, exquisite carpets, plush upholstery and magnificent chandeliers have been specially designed by the well-known San Francisco based firm Hirsch Bedner & Associates. In addition renowned Bangkok based landscaping specialist Bill Bensley has complemented the architecture with elegant pagodas, lotus ponds and maashals blending style with opulence. The hotel houses 350 newly renovated rooms and 5 studio apartments along with kitchen facilities for long stay guests. The rooms are equipped with state of the art amenities including Bose phone docks, JBL radio alarm clocks with an iPod docking station, a Media Jetpack and a rain shower. The JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu fleet includes high end luxury cars like Range Rover Sport, Mercedes Benz and BMW 7 series with inbuilt Wi-Fi facilities for guest commute and airport transfers. The hotel arranged for one of these luxury cars to pick me up from Pune.
JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu houses a variety of elaborate dining options ranging from an Italian restaurant, an Asian restaurant, an Indian restaurant, a 24-hour café and a quaint European style bakery and gourmet deli. For those who prefer to relax and rejuvenate, Quan Spa, three outdoor pools with beach access and a shopping gallery make the hotel a destination in itself. For those who can’t disconnect from work even while holidaying, the hotel offers state-of-the-art equipment at the Business Centre and a sprawling 14, 000 sq ft of space for meeting and banqueting facilities.
“At JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, we believe that a hotel is more than a place to sleep – it is a crafted, immersive experience created by associates who love what they do. That’s why every guest experience is shaped to delight, inspire and transform. Today’s luxury traveller is seeking not just an experience but a transformation that is rich and deep. Wide range of food and beverage, including an authentic Indian meal at our signature restaurant, Saffron combined with world class facilities including the Quan Spa, makes us one of the finest hotels in India, ” said Sharad Puri, General Manager JW Juhu Mumbai.
We were hosted in the grand Presidential Suite located on the 5th floor of the hotel where we were treated to three nights of leisure and luxury. Designed by internationally acclaimed design firm, Wilson Associates, the presidential suite at the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is a unique amalgamation of contemporary and traditional design. As we entered the suite, it was a pleasant surprise to see welcome amenities placed by the friendly and efficient Executive Chef Vishal Atreya. Reflecting true JW Marriott style, the suite boasts of inimitably outstanding features and redefines fine luxury.
The 2,200 sq. ft. spacious abode boasts of state–of-art facilities and is designed keeping in mind the needs of the modern traveler. Each room, with its varying styles in the décor and colour schemes maintains its own identity. The master bedroom redefines class, with a wall on wardrobe and offers a panoramic view of the scenic Arabian Sea. The muted tones in the Presidential Suite have a subduing effect and add a touch of stately dignity in the living room. From luxurious in-room amenities, Bose home theatre, high speed internet, exclusive furnishings to high levels of guest services and facilities, the suite is designed to meet every need of the leisure or business traveler. The elegantly designed suite also displays beautiful and versatile contemporary Indian art by famous Indian artists adding to a complete luxurious experience. On request there was an efficient lady waiter who served us during our visit.
Lotus Café, the 24-hour café restaurant owes its name due to a panorama that begins with the Lotus pond and stretches into the crimson horizon. The elaborate buffets for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as innovative Indian, Asian and Western a la carte specialties and interactive live kitchens are accompanied by live music. Lotus café offers food that is fresh, healthy and authentic served from an open interactive kitchen. We were treated to a delicious Marwari thaali at lunch on Sunday during our stay at the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu.
Open only during dinners, Mezzo Mezzo is a modern Italian restaurant that serves authentic Italian market cuisine from the regions of Tuscany, Sicily and Sardinia. The simple yet elegant décor creates a relaxed and informal atmosphere and the food matches up in every possible way. Mezzo Mezzo offers an extensive selection of premium vodkas and whiskies and a comprehensive international wine list to match. While at Mezzo Mezzo, make sure you try the burrata salad, piadina al forno, osso bucco, cilena branzino, spaghetti al arragosta and the tiramisu to end a fabulous meal.
The hotel houses Saffron, an Indian restaurant which is a favourite with many. I visited Saffron for dinner during my stay and came back impressed with mouth watering biryanis, kebabs and paan which was served at the end of the meal. Gosht ki galawat, nihari gosht, dum ki biryani, raan-e-awadh and shahi tukra are must tries when in Saffron.
A sophisticated vibe, inspiring uber-cool decor, breathtaking sea views and lounge music makes Dashanzi a popular hangout with locals and tourists alike. Progressive modern Chinese and Japanese cuisine, a live sushi and sashimi bar and an interactive dessert table along with expert bartenders such as Bensan Varghese who create amazing cocktails make this venue a must try ! A handcrafted and well balanced menu comprising of Asian Cocktails, Sake, Soju, Boutique Gins and Crafted Beers ensure that Dashanzi is just the perfect venue for parties and celebrations.
The signature cocktail list includes Asian G&T – Green Tea Infused Gin with Basil, Honey and Tonic Water, Lemon Grass Gin Sour – Lemon Grass Infused Gin with Fresh Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, Bitters and Egg White, Kaffir Lime Margarita – Tequila with Kaffir Lime Leaves, Triple Sec and Fresh Lime Juice, Saketini – Sake with Dry Vermouth and a Lemon Twist. Spectacular food dished up by Sous Chef Alok Verma such as edamame truffle dimsums, prawn harrow, avocado tartare, kung pao chicken, prawns in yellow bean sauce, tofu and eggplant in dou ban jiang sauce are must tries when at Dashanzi. On Saturdays, this restaurant hosts interesting brunches which are extremely popular with guests.
It is a good idea to watch the world go by at the BBC with a cup of steaming hot tea served with delicious cookies. The BBC which is a deli, bakery, cake shop is also perfect for a gourmet ice cream from Haagen Daaz or for those who prefer baked goodies such as a blueberry muffin or a Quiche Lorraine. Fresh homemade breads, sandwiches, delectable cakes and pastries, chocolates, bagels, energy drinks, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s tastes and preferences in this delightful place. For those who enjoy reading, BBC has an interesting selection of books. One can choose from an array of merchandise and lifestyle products offered at BBC ranging from food and dinnerware to the best of wines. While at the BBC, it is a good idea to try the Bombay Sandwich, the red velvet cake, the flourless chocolate and whiskey cake, the quinoa chaat, the hazelnut chocolates and the almond chocolates which are sinfully delicious.
I spent a lot of time relaxing at the award winning Quan Spa managed by Gunjan Chawla. The spa comprises of 8 spacious, private treatment suites (6 for Western style treatments, 2 for Ayurvedic), a Vichy shower room and a Couple’s Room. This is a 10,600 square feet tranquillity zone created using a lot of blues and whites which soothe one’s senses. The name Quan comes from the Chinese word meaning “the source of pure water”. Quan features Vichy showers, baths and a product range from Thalgo, based on ingredients from the ocean. Spa therapist Ethel ensured I walked out of the spa feeling very relaxed and rejuvenated. It is a good idea to go for the signature treatment if you are visiting this spa for the very first time. I also tried the chocolate scrub and wrap which is excellent for exfoliation and moisturization.
The JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is a destination in itself owing to its multiple restaurants that serve interesting cuisines, a fabulous spa, a luxurious Presidential Suite, stunning views of the sea, a popular deli and lots more! Worth several visits when in Mumbai!
Address: Juhu Tara Rd, Uditi Tarang Housing Colony, Juhu Tara, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049, India
Phone: +91 22 6693 3000
