This was my first time staying at a Hard Rock Hotel and will likely be my last…read more
For a brand built on rock music, big personality, cool guitars, it seemed like a good vibe, but overall, this hotel fails to shine through its age and mustiness. Hard Rock Cancun feels more like a faded backstage pass.
*AMBIANCE*
The hotel is noticeably dated--worn furniture, tired decor, and not well kept. In some guest hallways and rooms, you are hit with a strong MILDEW / MOLD smell the second you walk in, which was an instant red flag and made it hard to appreciate anything else. We had to switch rooms after the first night from the smell which gave me a headache. We also noticed condensation leaking from the AC, broken furniture, cracks in the walls, etc.
Now the best part was probably the beautiful beachfront location, large pool facility and getting to see the oceanfront view.
*FOOD*
If you want to eat dinner at the themed restaurants (Hibachi, Italian, Steakhouse, Seafood), you have to reserve a time slot on their app. The app was quite glitchy. The food had its moments, but overall, it felt like the chefs were playing a game of culinary roulette. Some dishes were good enough to make me hopeful, while others made me question every life choice that led me to that buffet tray. I would say the best spot was the pizzeria, it was fresh, though pies were gone in seconds once they came out from the oven.
*SERVICE*
Upon instantly checking in, you feel like you are herded like cattle by being passed onto their concierge that tries to sneak in a timeshare presentation. That said, service at this hotel felt more reactive than proactive.
Overall, for a 5-star hotel, it certainly felt a lot lower than that. If you're looking for a clean stay with 5-star service, I'd probably look elsewhere.