The best thing about this place are the drinks and the desserts, especially the homemade ice cream where the rum raisin flavour is a standout item. Food is above average but not great.
The vegetarian burger with avocado and fried egg is actually better than the beef burger (which they claim is "the best burger in Asia"). Lime and ginger juice is thoroughly refreshing.
Authentic Burmese food - even with more exotic dishes such as gizzards and feet. Service is incredibly quick as food is kept prepared for the common dishes. Great chance to meet locals.
There's an elevator that goes all the way to the top - it can be accessed from the car park. Worth noting for wheelchair access if needed.
Try the lemongrass martini for a twist on the classic - it tastes absolutely deliciously without being too sugary-sweet the way a lot of cocktails tend to be.
The reception area stands out because it isn't a bar-type desk behind which employees stand: to this day, the front desk staff literally sit at a desk with a phone. Adds character!
Smoking allowed in here, which can result in a haze around the room. Hendrick's gin available too, but not a lot of choices in terms of tonic.
By far the standout feature of this hotel is the cool artwork throughout, especially the collection of wall paintings that give the illusion of 3D!
Asian salads in their menu with "Myanmar" or "home dressing" is basically a generous drizzle of chilli oil - avoid or ask them to go easy with it if you can't handle spicy food.
If you're trying to get to the Karaweik, there doesn't seem to be any way to do that through the park / lake itself - could be a lot of wasted energy trying to walk the length of the park to get there
The boardwalks around the lake can be quite tricky to navigate, as some of them don't seem to have been replaced for a while. Wouldn't jog on them.
Reasonably priced thin crust pizza with a good range of options. Service is attentive! Happy hour deals on draught beer and cocktails usually available.
Free WiFi available on the OryxRotana-Free network in the lobby and common areas. In-room wifi is charged with a good range of options for time; ~3mbps speed which isn't bad at all.
If you're staying for free under the STPC scheme with Qatar Airways, the breakfast at Choices Restaurant is ~100 QAR after applying a 30 QAR discount. Excellent value and a great buffet selection.
The food is well worth giving a miss because because it's badly cooked - not just on one occasion but on multiple, across many different dishes. Can't even get a burger or a salad right.
Be prepared to have your bum spanked with a leather paddle when you go "through the looking glass" mirror door. Inside bar has a distinctly different vibe: It's noisier but worth checking out.
Delicious sourdough pizzas that are a great cross between authentic and fusion Italian cuisine. Very limited choice of wines. Excellent value for what you get and portions are well-thought.
