I completed a two night stay at the Embassy Suites Boca Raton on August 20, 2008. I was in the area on business and the ES was close to the job site. As I’ve noted in previous posts, this stay coincided with the arrival of Tropical Storm Fay. Fortunately, the worst of that was on the west side of the state, but we did get plenty of rain and wind.

Check-in

Check-in was pleasant enough, however my Hilton HHonors Gold status was not recognized in any manner.

The Room

The room appeared to have had a recent coat of paint and reasonably up-to-date furnishings. As with all Embassy Suites hotels, the room is a two-room suite with separate living area and bedroom. The living area was functional and well-lit with couch, chair, work table and an in-room refrigerator. The hotel offers wireless internet for a fee of $9.95 per night (free if you are a Hilton HHonors Gold or Diamond member and select wireless internet as your Hilton HHonors VIP benefit). Note: if you work for a not so hip employer who does not allow you to use wireless connectivity, your only option is one ethernet hardwire connection in the business center. This hotel does not have wireless “bridges” like many hotels that can trick your non-wireless PC into connecting to a wi-fi network.

The bedroom was equipped with a king-size bed, adequate closet space and offered a balcony that I didn’t make any use of. The bed was not the latest version of any Hilton bed, but was comfortable enough.

Complimentary Breakfast

The comp breakfast was the standard offering but was very tasty. Nothing else I can say.

Manager’s Reception

The best part of any Embassy Suites stay is the free booze. This was no exception. The evening cocktail hour was actually two-hours, and delivered by an extremely pleasant lady who seemed to be well-known by some of the regular guests. I tipped her a buck per glass, and never wanted for service. Be sure and stop by if you’re staying at the hotel.

Things to Do

Unfortunately, the weather prohibited much in the way of extensive adventure after-hours. I did try one terrific restaurant and recommend you do the same if you’re in the area. I dined at Seasons 52 on Tuesday evening. Dinner was fantastic! If you’re not familiar, Seasons 52 menus rotate on a seasonal basis, and food offerings focus on healthy eating. As the waiter put it, you won’t find any butter in the restaurant. But I was not disappointed. My salmon was fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. Give it a try if you’re in Boca or any of their other locations in Florida and Atlanta.

The Bottom Line

I’d stay again if in the area. The front desk service was ok, if not outgoing, and I wish all the Hilton family hotels would be more consistent in recognizing their HHonors VIP guests.