The Radh a new beautifully designed hotel located in the heart of Kandy gets its name from the word ‘Radhala’ which means aristocrat. The hotel, its decor, services, staff really do live up to the meaning of the name. I walked in as just another local without introducing my self to the doorman and staff but from the moment the door opened, I saw nothing but welcoming smiles starting from the doorman to the front desk.
Rooms- I was greeted with a cold towel to refresh my self from the heat and a welcome drink. I had to wait 20 minutes to be taken to my room.
I was given an executive room which was tastefully decorated with beds that were so comfy I could say my sleeping experience there was heavenly. The room was equipped with cable TV, JBL Bluetooth speaker, tea/coffee(Illy Coffee) facilities and their bathroom were by Spa Ceylon. They even added a Mothercare cot expecting me to bring my baby which I found very thoughtful. The rooms were exceptionally clean and very comfortable.
The view from my room was what I found the most interesting. Some may open their curtain and be disappointed by the view but after some research, I was surprised to learn that the old building right outside my room was the Ehelepola Walwwa which was the former prison used by the British before Bogambara was built. I found my self lucky to have such a historically interesting view from my room. A few hours into my stay I noticed that the air conditioner in my room was not functioning properly but quick action was taken by the staff to look into it. I was offered a room change which I accepted and didn’t face any issue thereafter.
Restaurant- Kandy doesn’t have many options when it comes to Japanese food thus most Kandyans were happy that the popular restaurant Nihonbashi opened at The Radh. I tried the Sashimi first which was very fresh. I did not expect this as Kandy is not popular for their seafood.
I then had their Perahara Bento which was perfect! I could even say that I enjoyed the food at this branch of Nihonbashi than I did in Colombo. I then ordered their Japanese French Toast for dessert. Once I tried it I thought to my self that everyone should try this dessert which is by far one of the best desserts I have had in Sri Lanka.
They have A la carte for dinner which I started with a Chicken and Mushrooms soup, it was served with spicy croutons. It was full of flavor and delicious.
My second course was a Prawn and Grapefruit Salad this was my least favorite dish during my stay. The prawns were fresh but I found the salad lacked flavor.
Third I tried the Grilled Italian Tuna Wrap I liked this dish as well and see my self visiting the restaurant again to have it. I ended my dinner with their Belgian Waffles with Baskin Robins Ice cream. It was amazing! I was pretty full by the time dessert came so the staff sent it up to my room and I had it as a midnight snack.
Breakfast was a widespread mix of continental and local cuisine. They have an action station for eggs and hoppers, a small selection of cheese, bread and pastries, fruits and fresh juices.
Spa- The Radh also has a small gym, steam room, sauna and spa. I had a 60-minute Javanese treatment at the spa which is priced at Rs.7000/- I thought it was reasonable for full body massage. They have a good local female therapist who does various massage treatments and beauty treatment such as body scrubs, facials, manicures and pedicures.
Summary- I would say my experience at The Radh was very good. I mostly enjoyed their food and see my self visiting their restaurant in the future. The chef didn’t fail to impress me with every dish I ordered. The coffee shop at their entrance would also be an ideal place for meetups or meetings as they have a nice variety of Illy Coffee based hot and cold drinks.
I also liked how the hotel was designed. Even though it's built on a small land the hotel looks spacious and chic, they have managed to take full advantage of the space available without overcrowding.
