The Aqua Lounge is located inside of the Crowne Plaza Hotel, directly across from the Tines Restaurant inside the hotel.
After we entered the hotel, it struck me as unusual that there was no signage to indicate where the Tines Restaurant and the Aqua Lounge were located inside the hotel. My husband and I wound our way around the corridor, until we came to the lobby near where the restaurant and lounge are both located. The restaurant was closed (now apparently open only on weekends), so we went to the lounge.
Based upon the service we received in the Aqua Lounge, I would give the establishment 5 stars, because Sean was very professional and welcoming, greeting us immediately upon entry. He even adjusted the thermostat for me, because he could tell I was freezing from the air conditioning! Sean advised us of the happy hour drink specials, which included the house liquors and wines. He was very cordial and professional, and I fully expect he would successfully find suitable employment in an establishment which will be more deserving of his qualifications, so that he will have more customers from whom he can earn tips.
Inside the lounge, there are a few tables in addition to seating at the bar, and most of the tables are simply wooden. However, there were four tables which were covered with white table cloths and set with glasses and cloth napkins. We chose to sit at one of the white cloth-covered tables. To my dismay, I noted that none of the cloth-covered tables had clean table cloths, as all were clearly soiled from previous patrons (i.e. crumbs, greasy spots, various food / drink stains). The napkins and accompanying utensils inside them were clean, so that was a definite plus. Our alcoholic libations were made according to order.
We each ordered food, which Sean promptly went to fetch from the kitchen upon its preparation. My husband had a Cuban sandwich which was fresh and tasty. I ordered the spinach & artichoke dip served with sliced brioche. It was hot and flavorful, of which I was appreciative.
The lounge itself seems to be a rather neglected aspect of the IHG company, along with the hotel and restaurant. The lounge looks almost as though it's not actually open, the only clue to indicate that it was open for business was that Sean was at the bar and the televisions were on. It makes me sad to see the potential for an establishment such as this being left to stand empty, things like advertising drink specials could help draw in some business and vitality. The hotel seems like it must depend solely upon conference bookings rather than hotel guests who are staying overnight. There was very little activity in the hotel lobby, and the front desk attendant was seldom required to be at their post to assist guests.
I think that IHG would be well-served to model this facility after one of their Hotel Indigo properties, which has more of a boutique hotel feeling. read more
