Shruti Haasan

OT Favourite hotel in the world
Shruti Haasan Honestly, it&rsquos difficult to pick one because I like several. But Taj Coromandel (www.tajhotels.com) in Chennai tops the list &mdash it&rsquos really like an extended home for our family. Growing up in the city, Coromandel formed the backdrop for many memorable afternoons and evenings.

OT Last visited
Shruti Haasan Whenever I&rsquom in Chennai (which is fairly often), I visit the Taj Coromandel. Whether it&rsquos a working lunch or catching up with friends and family, I always find enough reason to be there. But since I have a home in the same city, I rarely check into the hotel.  

OT The experience
Shruti Haasan The property has a winning, old-fashioned charm &mdash carved wood furniture, muted linens, large bathrooms and imposing desks &mdash that marries the design sensibilities of South India with classic European elegance. And as a musician, I also look forward to their live jazz evenings.

Besides, I think what makes a hotel special is its service and hospitality. It&rsquos just terrible when the staff is rude and standoffish. But at the Coromandel, I have never had occasion to carp. They have a wonderful set of trained staff, who follow you like shadows &mdash unobtrusive, yet attentive. And though people assume that I get better service than the average punter, I know for a fact that bending over backwards for guests is de rigueur in that hotel.    

OT The food
Shruti Haasan Eating out in Chennai usually means dining at Prego, in the Coromandel &mdash they serve some splendid, authentic Italian fare. It&rsquos comfort food for me. I know I can order blindly and never be disappointed. And there&rsquos something about their freshly made pasta, greens and meats that make each meal memorable. It&rsquos amazing how they manage to surprise me, even after all these years. Prego offers a great collection of wines from all around the world as well. 

OT Repeat visit
Shruti Haasan Yes, certainly. On my next trip to Chennai.