Riddiford Hotel

The hotel is notably recognized for its integrated restaurant, which is a popular destination for Yum Cha, drawing many guests specifically for its culinary offerings. Despite its age, a consistent highlight is the exceptionally friendly and welcoming staff and owners, who are frequently praised for their attentiveness and hospitality. The hotel's central location is another significant advantage, placing guests within easy walking distance of shopping centers and local amenities. However, many guests observe that the property is very dated and in need of significant renovation, impacting the overall aesthetic and comfort. While some areas are noted for cleanliness, others report issues, particularly within the restaurant. This hotel is well-suited for budget-conscious travelers seeking a convenient base, diners interested in the specific cuisine, and shoppers or business travelers due to its prime location. To ensure a more comfortable stay, guests might consider requesting a room away from the street to minimize noise and manage expectations regarding the hotel's older condition.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently comment on the hotel's parking facilities, noting that ample and often private parking is available, which is a significant convenience. While Wi-Fi is offered, feedback is mixed, with some guests finding the connection slow or encountering issues with obtaining access codes. The hotel generally lacks modern amenities, with many reviews highlighting the absence of air conditioning and often inadequate heating, requiring guests to request supplementary heaters. In-room facilities are described as basic, with a notable lack of microwaves, toasters, and sufficient cutlery or crockery, which can be inconvenient for those wishing to prepare simple meals. The presence of an elevator is mentioned, though some guests find it a bit unsettling. Overall, while essential facilities like parking are well-regarded, the property's dated nature extends to its amenities, which are often perceived as sparse or in need of upgrade.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed. While some guests describe their rooms as clean and tidy, others report significant issues, including finding pubic hair in bathrooms or a musty smell. Rooms are consistently described as very dated, with worn carpets and old decor contributing to a "gloomy" or "chilly" atmosphere, indicating a strong need for renovation. Bed comfort receives varied reviews, with some finding beds surprisingly comfortable, while others describe them as hard or prone to movement. Issues with pillows being flat or insufficient are common, as are concerns about the cleanliness of linens. Noise levels are a frequent complaint, particularly from street traffic and emergency services, though some rooms are noted as quiet. Bathrooms are a major point of contention, with reports of flooding showers, non-flushing toilets, inadequate ventilation, and general disrepair, including hot water and drainage issues. Many guests also highlight the poor quality or insufficient quantity of towels and the lack of effective blackout curtains.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's integrated restaurant is a central feature, particularly renowned for its Yum Cha offerings. Most guests praise the food quality, describing dishes as delicious, well-prepared, and offering excellent variety, with some even calling it the best Yum Cha they have experienced. Specific items like the ginger cake and sticky rice receive high recommendations. However, feedback on the restaurant service and cleanliness is overwhelmingly negative. Many guests report extremely rude or inattentive staff, long wait times, and a general feeling of being ignored. Concerns about the restaurant's hygiene are also frequent, with mentions of dirty tables, utensils, and a musky smell. Beyond Yum Cha, the availability of breakfast and dinner at the hotel is inconsistent, with many guests noting that the restaurant is often closed during standard meal times, leading to disappointment for those expecting on-site dining options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, placing guests within easy walking distance of shopping centers, local amenities, and various attractions. This makes it highly convenient for both leisure and business travelers needing quick access to the city's core. Guests appreciate the ability to explore the area on foot and the proximity to public transport options. A significant positive aspect is the availability of ample parking on the property, often described as private and secure, which is a valuable amenity in a central urban setting. This eliminates the stress of finding street parking and adds to the overall convenience for guests traveling by car. Overall, the hotel's strategic position and dedicated parking contribute significantly to a positive and hassle-free stay for most visitors.

Staff & Service
The staff and owners consistently receive high praise for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and welcoming demeanor. Many guests describe them as attentive, accommodating, and going out of their way to assist, whether it's providing extra amenities or arranging special dining requests. This personal touch significantly enhances the guest experience. However, the check-in process and general reception availability receive strong negative feedback. Guests report unattended front desks, locked doors during operating hours, and a lack of staff presence, leading to frustration upon arrival. Furthermore, while the hotel staff are generally lauded, the restaurant service is a notable exception, with numerous complaints about rude, dismissive, or inattentive behavior from dining staff, creating a stark contrast to the positive interactions elsewhere in the hotel.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel has been undergoing significant renovations, with some reviews mentioning extensive scaffolding and even concerns about asbestos removal during their stay. This ongoing work contributes to the dated appearance and can impact the guest experience, with reports of windows being unable to open properly and visible signs of construction. Additionally, there is mixed feedback regarding the hotel's use for transitional housing. While some guests were thankful that the hotel is not used for emergency or transitional housing, others reported it is used as a "holding" hotel for people experiencing homelessness. This aspect of the hotel's operation is a unique characteristic that potential guests may wish to consider, as it has led to varied perceptions among visitors.