There are good and not good points to villa retreat. The original house is attractive and has a beautifully kept garden with wonderful views of near and distant hills and valleys. The setting and location are excellent. We initially struggled with the menu but the chef, Shadab, was very helpful with good suggestions for us. He is clearly passionate about producing good food and was generous with his time and help in general info too.
This hotel cost us more than we have paid to stay in other, immaculate and beautiful ‘boutique’ hotels in India and more than a couple of the slick, modern 5 stars that we have occasionally used. We prefer small places if possible. On arrival the woman in reception looked at us as though we had interrupted her day and I’m not sure she managed a smile through the whole registration process. We were given a list of rules - everything we should or shouldn’t do rather than what it would be their pleasure to do for us. The room - although with a fantastic view - was poorly furnished and the bathroom had rickety old cupboards that wouldn’t shut so were a shin hazard. Everything seemed of poor quality - from the curtains to the loo paper. It felt as though everything was done on the cheap. We were initially told we would have to pay extra to heat the room (very cold in Kodai early a.m and evenings) but did manage to get an old fan heater - which they control from outside so you can only turn it on when they permit. Even at half the price this place is overpriced. Such a shame as the setting and Shadab and the restaurant staff were really good.

Rooms are cosy! Views are great... The staff is very friendly right from the housekeeping (humble Josep) the kitchen(Shankar Anna and Manoj) and front desk(Hari vinod Rebecca)! The food is an experience in itself- a culinary delight. The chef's innovation and presentation bring an exciting anticipation to each meal! I visited the place with my grandfather and now after 15 years with my children. The experience calls for repeats!
suggestions? Maybe long stay packages/rebates:and loyalty programs) tempting one to do this again and again!!
When in Kodaikanal stay here and eat here!

Would classify this as a boutique hotel with a great location with a good view. The exterior of the hotel is simply very pretty and Instagram worthy. We stayed at the room with the fire place and they do light it up after 7pm. Unfortunately, the room was pretty dated. The fixtures were very old, mattress was very old and was sinking in. Looks like the bathrooms were done up some years back, but the tile edges are broken all over the place. The doors very worn down. The rooms can definitely do with some renovations as it seems like from the 80s.
Coming to the food and dining experience, I must say and probably everyone who stays here would agree that the head Chef Mr. Shadab is like the soul of the hotel. He engages with the guest, understands their dietary requirements and delivers on his gourmet meals beyond expectations. We stayed for 2 nights during the XMAS eve and they had a special dinner on 24th Dec. Chef Shadab simply dished out the best food I had had in a small town kind of a place. Each course was very well thought of with the right balance to the palate. It did not end there, he doubles up as an entertainer with his small gig with a guitar and singing some retro songs to keep the spirits high of his guest. Great guy and very interesting to talk to. Kudos to his team who made everything look very seamless including our experience during the breakfast time.
Even if you are not staying here in Kodaikanal, I would recommend you drop by for a meal at this place.