Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin

Review of Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin

BusinessClass.com review by Varun Sharma
Updated 24. Nov 2022

One of Germany’s legendary hotels, the Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin enjoys perhaps the city’s finest location, overlooking Pariser Platz, close to the famous Brandenburg Gate. A symbol of the country’s unification and one of the first new buildings to be erected around that time, the current hotel sits on the site of the 1907 original property, destroyed by fire in 1945, and re-opened in a similar classical vein on in 1997. 

Today’s property enjoys 385 well-appointed rooms including 78 suites split into 16 categories with no less than three premium suites. For wining and dining, the property is served by three restaurants: the two Michelin starred Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, the Restaurant Quarré serving national and international favourites and the Pan-Asian Sra Bua restaurant. There are also two lounges and bars for quenching the thirst and snacking and the Adlon Coffee Shop for gourmet treats on the go.

For relaxation and pampering, facilities include the 900 square metre Adlon Spa by Resense, spread out over three floors, offering a wide range of treatments within three private spa suites and eight luxurious treatment rooms. There is also a wellness area including an 11-metre by six metre heated indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna and a well-equipped 700 square metre fitness centre. To accompany any fitness session, iPods, headsets, yoga mats and personal trainers are available on request. The adjacent pool bar offers refreshing drinks, fruit and light menus, perfect for re-energising.

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Location

10/10

Enjoying a central location on Pariser Platz Square and on Unter den Linden Boulevard, the Hotel Adlon Kempinski is within easy walking distance of Berlin’s top attractions. These include the Brandenburg Gate (500 metres distance); the Holocaust Memorial; the Reichstag Building (home to Germany’s parliament); Gendarmenmarkt Square; Museum Island; Tiergarten Park; Berlin Cathedral and the State Opera. The shopping rich Friedrichstrasse is only a ten-minute stroll away whilst Potsdamer Platz is around a 15-minute walk. 

Berlin Airport (BER) is around 21 kilometres from the hotel, a journey time by limousine of around 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The nearest public transportation includes the U/S-Bahn and bus stop directly outside the hotel.

For drivers, Hotel Adlon Kempinski has underground parking.

Accommodation

9/10

Furnished in a classically elegant style with opulent precious materials and luxury fabrics, the Hotel Adlon Kempinski offers a wide range of accommodation options with three categories of room type and 16 categories of suite accommodation – the largest choice of hotel suites in Germany. Of the 385 units, 307 are guest rooms and 78 are suites including no less than three premium suites. Forty of the suites are equipped with a living and working area plus a kitchenette for longer stay patrons. Room features include a laptop sized safe; flat screen TVs; entertainment centres; working desks, Nespresso machines – some also feature four poster beds.

Room sizes range from 35 to 45 square metres and all feature marble bathrooms in both light and dark marbles and cherry wood panelling with double vanities, separate showers and baths and a built-in multifunctional dressing table. If butler service is required, they will be there in a trice. Accommodation ranges from the 35 square metre quieter Executive Rooms in the Adlon Residence to the 40 square metre Deluxe Room, the slightly larger Superior Deluxe Room at 42 square metres of space and views out over Unter den Linden and the Fit Room – larger at 62 square metres and including a separate personal workout space with a TechnoGym indoor cycling bike.

The entry level suites start with three categories of Junior Suite for those wanting a little more space. The Junior Suite offers 48 square metres of living space whilst the Junior Suite Unter den Linden has 58 square metres of space with separate working and sitting areas and the Junior Suite Brandenburg Gate is sized at 62 square metres of space with that premium view over Berlin’s famous monument. Moving on up, the Adlon Executive Suite is a similar size at 62 square metres with a quieter location, the Pariser Platz Suite (80 square metres) features stunning views over the Brandenburg Gate and Pariser Platz whilst the Berlin Suite at 110 square metres overlooks the gardens. Of a similar size, the Adlon Deluxe Suite has the added bonus of a dining room and a separate kitchen for those late-night cravings. The Linden Suite at 130 square metres offers yet more available space with the bedroom featuring a four-poster bed for that sense of occasion. 

With pretty much a central view of the Brandenburg Gate, the Brandenburg Gate Suite is a little smaller in size at 80 square metres but as always, this suite is about location, location, location or view, view, view. For that similar view but with a larger footprint at 130 square metres, the deluxe version – Brandenburg Gate Deluxe Suite – offers classic luxury on the grand scale. 

For that push the boat out moment, the opulent Imperial Suite at 220 square metres of space is the largest in the hotel with wood panelling; handcrafted porcelain; a library come office; a master bedroom with a magnificent curtained four poster bed with a bathroom bedecked in rare marbles; a dining room for special occasions and a kitchen perfect for chef-prepared meals on request. For those travelling with large retinues of staff or security, two further suites can be incorporated increasing the space to 420 square metres with private lifts to take guests directly to and from the hotel’s underground garage. It is one of Germany’s safest and most secure hotel suites.

When only the best will do, the Presidential Suite Brandenburg Gate has it all. 185 square metres of living space with a spectacular view of Berlin’s most famous attraction, a personal butler ready to accommodate any and every whim and limousine transportation just waiting to be used 24/7. There is a large living room, a generous master suite, a dining room and a kitchen for use by either the butler, the chef or yourself when a snack attack takes place. The bathroom even has a Jacuzzi and a sauna – what more could you ask for?

Enjoying an identical layout, the two-bedroom Royal Suite, beloved of heads of state such as the late Her Majesty The Queen (it was renamed the Royal Suite after she stayed) or entertainment personalities such as Michael Jackson, enjoys a similar amount of space and has the ambiance of a spacious 1920’s apartment, albeit one with enhanced security. Silk wallcoverings, parquet flooring, artwork by German masters, the suite enjoys a round reception room, a living room complete with a fireplace and a separate room for private meetings or dining. The full equipped kitchen means that meals can be easily prepared and served by your private butler. 

Service & Facilities

9/10

For relaxation and pampering, Berlin’s largest day spa is the 900 square metre Adlon Spa by Resense, spread across three floors. A haven of serenity with a muted neutral colour palette and a pared-back aesthetic, the Adlon Spa by Resense offers a wide range of massages, body treatments and facials including The Bespoke Massage for that personalised touch and the Black Diamond Lifting Facial for an anti-ageing youthful appearance.

There are eight luxurious treatment rooms complete with heated massage beds, baths, showers, steam and Finnish saunas together with three 45 square metre private spa suites with similar facilities. A separate wellness area offers an 11 x six metre heated indoor pool, a whirlpool, sauna and a well-equipped 700 square metre fitness centre. To accompany any fitness session, iPods, headsets, yoga mats and personal trainers are available on request. The adjacent pool bar offers refreshing drinks, fruit and light menus, perfect for re-energising.

Style

10/10

The Hotel Adlon Kempinski is one of those legendary hotels that graces the pages of history, becoming a German landmark in its own right and the haunt of the world’s wealthy elite. Named for its original owner, Lorenz Adlon, it first opened in 1907 with the support of Kaiser Wilhelm II, re-built and re-opening post-unification on 23rd August 1997 by no lesser personage than President Roman Herzog. 

Constructed to echo the original in terms of a classical style, the resulting hotel is timeless – welcoming, opulent and grand – operated by Europe’s oldest hotel group, Kempinski AG with their renowned, efficient and unobtrusive service standards and the famous Lady in Red brand ambassadors and guest relations team – local experts dedicated to serve. 

It is no wonder that the great and the good still flock through its doors with celebrated guests including the Obamas, Michael Jackson, Queen Elizabeth II and Mick Jagger - among other famous names.

Restaurants & Bars

10/10

There is a wide range of wining and dining opportunities available at Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin ranging from inviting lounges and bars to Michelin starred cuisine and takeaway food on the go. Also expect to see some Berlin favourites such as the property’s signature dish, Adlon Currywurst, first served on a snack stand in Berlin-Chalottenburg in 1949 by Herta Heuwer and the hotel’s take on the doner kebab – Adlon Doner Kebab with veal tenderloin, truffle cream, marinated cabbage, red onions, tomatoes and flat bread.

Literally at the heart of the property lies the brightly lit Lobby Lounge Bar, part of which enjoys a contemporary domed ceiling. Furnished with Murano glass chandeliers, limestone, leather and onyx complemented by hand-picked antiques and Italian furnishings, the pièce de résistance (and a nice nod to the past), is a replica of the famous elephant fountain - a gift from the Maharaja of Patiala dating from around 1930. Perfect for daytime beverages and snacks, the lobby is known for its coffee and tea specialities, cocktails and patisserie. For that regal moment, enjoy the hotel’s Royal Afternoon Tea complete with sweet and savoury treats.

The two Michelin starred Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer is one of Berlin’s finest gastronomic restaurants offering a menu of haute cuisine delights. With views out over the Brandenburg Gate, this intimate restaurant showcases each element of the dish and its essential elements. In winter, the open fireplace lends a touch of warmth whilst tables can be booked in the restaurant itself or the adjacent library. 

Restaurant Quarré meanwhile offers regional and seasonal specialities alongside international classics – freshly interpreted - to keep everyone happy away from home. This restaurant too has views over the Brandenburg Gate and Unter den Linden and is far larger with 150 seats within the restaurant and 100 on the terrace.

Sra Bua Restaurant offers the best of Asia’s intense flavours from Japan, China and Thailand - married up with European influences and techniques. Presentation is a big part of the cuisine and it is fair to say it looks good but tastes better. A modern Pan-Asian menu is complemented by lounge music and a chilled, casual ambiance with specialities including Ruam Gan. The sister bar – Sra Bua Bar – offers an Asian ambiance with a selection of intense, flavourful cocktails.

The Adlon Coffee Shop is perfect for gourmet treats on the go. Located on Pariser Platz overlooking the Brandenburg Gate with coffees, gourmet sandwiches and patisserie available, the shop also showcases handpicked local items found at the Hotel Adlon such as their porcelain which is produced in a small Berlin factory and the famous Steiff teddy bears.

Sustainability

The team at the Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin are deeply cognisant of their responsibilities to sustainability and to the environment in their everyday hotel operation. They have implemented several initiatives to significantly reduce their energy and water consumption as well as managing their waste, participating in EarthCheck receiving a Silver Certification in 2018. They are looking to use 100% renewable energy in the next few years, have fitted all taps with aerators to save water, have changed nearly all their lightbulbs to LEDs and are working with their stakeholders to follow a more sustainable way of working.

The food and beverage department are working with only the most sustainable sources and local suppliers ensuring the freshest of ingredients for their restaurants. To counteract food wastage, they work with Too Good To Go. This platform allows those companies with excess food to connect with those who are able to utilise good quality food. The team also works with local suppliers where possible – 100% cage free eggs, meat and fish from eco-friendly businesses where animal welfare is paramount. Their mozzarella comes from a local buffalo farm on the outskirts of the city whilst eggs, poultry products, beef, sheep and goat meat come from a local farm Gut Vorder Bollhagen. 

Housekeeping work with Clean the World to recycle used guest soaps and small hygiene bottles and the hotel as a whole has abandoned single use plastics and are reinforcing recycling practices where no sustainable alternatives can be used. The hotel also asks guests to participate in their Green Linens programme by not replacing bed linens and towels every day.

In terms of social responsibility, the hotel invites young talented musicians from the College of Fine Arts Berlin to play for the hotel’s guests within the Kempinski Concertini series which includes violin, piano, flute and cello concerts. 

What We Love

  • History: Originally opened in 1907 – The “original” Adlon was destroyed by fire in 1945. It was finally rebuilt in the 1990s and reopened in 1997. It is Berlin’s “Ritz” or “Plaza” … The good and great of politics, entertainment and royalty have stayed here. It is not just a hotel, it’s a tourist attraction – it is an integral part of one the world’s great cities
  • Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer: With two Michelin stars, this one of Berlin’s finest culinary experiences. It’s reassuringly expensive – open from Wednesday to Saturday only and serves up lobster, pigeon and Bavarian Veal as signature dishes. Masterchef Reto Brändli is a magician – creating dishes that look AND taste amazing. Paired with one of the classiest wine lists in Berlin, the restaurant offers the best of German cuisine. As an aside, the Adlon Currywurst is a must! It dates back to the 1940s and is a Lobby Bar stalwart!
  • Adlon Spa by Resense: Berlin is an exhausting city! You can party all night and sightsee all day. So, to recover, a trip to the hotel spa is a joy. Enjoy a long massage or sauna … stroke elegantly in the heated indoor pool or sweat out the beer in the fitness centre – it’s all about you!

    Varun Sharma
    Editor-In-Chief
    BusinessClass.com

What They Love

  • Location and recognition: I am amazed by the location, next to Berlin's famous landmark, the Brandenburg Gate and so very close to the Reichstag. I do not need a car anymore; everything is within walking distance . And I am deeply impressed by the recognition of Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin. Not only are our hotel guests happy while enjoying a stay with us but people walking by are more than eager just to take pictures from our lobby. Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin has a strong bond with its city and is far more than just a hotel - and due to its tradition and history - indeed a landmark of the city.
  • Team and passion: Working at Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is pure fascination. This huge operation works only with a strong team and its spirit to go the extra mile every second to execute excellent service performances. We have long serving employees, youngsters and apprentices with international multicultural backgrounds. Every employee embraces the soul, the atmosphere and even the mood of our property. I personally admire this kind of attitude and the capability of knowing which guest needs which kind of service.
  • Berlin: Vibrant, never sleeps and so entrepreneurial minded. I used to live in downtown Shanghai for 7 years and I compare Berlin with Shanghai. It has a feeling of “never give up” or “let’s try good ideas, no matter how many obstacles we find on our way”. Berlin is very open minded towards new ideas but also follows closely how companies respect their surroundings and secure or increase their sustainability. 

    Karina Ansos
    Managing Director
    Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin

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About the author
Varun Sharma
Editor-in-Chief
With over 25 years of experience in luxury travel journalism, Varun is responsible for all the content you see on BusinessClass.com. He works closely with all the hotel and airline brands that appear on the website. BBC-trained, Varun has appeared in print, on radio, television, and now online media - having worked for outlets including the BBC, Telegraph (UK), MSNBC, Travel Channel and Cond...
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