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The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel Reviews List
The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Drawing inspiration from Queen Victoria's role as the Empress of India, this colonial style lounge is known throughout Victoria for its authentic curry buffet and signature cocktail menu. While new restaurants and lounges appear in Victoria regularly, The Bengal Lounge is a favorite of residents and visitors alike.
Overlooking our stately gardens, the richly appointed Bengal Lounge offers not only a delicious curry lunch and dinner buffet but also an impressive international à la carte menu. Cocktail and martini aficionados will appreciate our vast selection of signature drinks.
The Bengal Lounge is a licensed lounge and all guest must be 19 or older.
See more The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel details
39 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Rating Breakdown 39 reviews
5 stars
(16)
4 stars
(15)
3 stars
(6)
2 stars
(2)
1 star
(0)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- special occasion(25)
- great for lunch(22)
- fit for foodies(15)
- romantic(14)
- neighborhood gem(11)
- scenic view(10)
The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel Reviews List
Review 1 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Absolutely fantastic, our first time there, first of many I'm sure. We took our Mother their for a belated Mother's day celebration, she said it was the best Mother's Day she has ever had. Thank-you for making her day exceptional!"
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, scenic view, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 2 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Intimate, relaxing, elegant. Delicious curry. Service was friendly but not intrusive."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 3 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Outstanding in every way. The evening at The Bengal Lounge was the highlight of our trip to Victoria!"
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 4 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Charming restaurant & lovely
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Charming restaurant & lovely food."
Dined on 24/04/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 5 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The food was tasty and the
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The food was tasty and the 'lounge' atmosphere was lovely."
Dined on 23/04/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 6 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
One expects a high standard
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"One expects a high standard at the Empress and the Bengal Lounge does not disappoint. It has become a sort of Victoria ritual for us and as usual we opted for the Curry Buffet. Curry lovers will be impressed as there are no fewer than four main items featured at any time. On this occasion we were treated to Coconut Lamb Curry, Butter Chicken, Tandoori Chicken and a delicious vegetarian curry. Included are all the fixings one would expect; nann bread, pappadums, basmati rice, raita etc. There is also a mini salad bar. Dessert options are limited but very appropriate; excellent rice pudding and a sort of indian spiced creme brulee (very tasty). At $30.00 it's not cheap but I believe it is good value. Come hungry and try a bit of everything!"
Dined on 21/04/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 7 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Still a Gem.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Love the Bengal Lounge. Always a treat when I get to come here. Exquisite! Food, service, atmosphere top notch."
Dined on 18/04/2013
2010
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 8 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
The food was only fair which
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was only fair which was a disappointment, we had expected more from the hype of the Empress hotel. The restaurant itself was very nice. We were very disappointed in the attire, as in the site it said business casual...So we dressed accordingly and were shocked to see plaid shirt jackets and baseball caps and more jeans than even khaki's. I don't have a problem with that type of attire but if you call for something more make it so or remove it from your site as obviously you are not as fansy as you try to make yourself out to be. Service was good if you call having to wave for the waitress each time you needed a refill of water or to get the bill."
Dined on 13/04/2013
2013
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Review 9 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Not "indian food" but still good
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Not knowing ahead of time, this is a British Indian Bar (as explained by the staff). I was looking for Indian food and those who know the history know that British people only "think" they like Indian food but its far far from. Tastes are watered down and "Butter chicken" is a purely British invention. If you like spice and heat, you will be disappointed. While the buffet was decent quality, I would not go back for food again.
Having said that, the ambience and service is stellar. Its dark, and looks like a colonial hunting lodge in India. Def nice place to take a special someone. Reserve ahead of time and get the armchairs by the window. Its secluded and romantic and the staff are extrordinarily attentive."
Dined on 07/04/2013
2011
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 10 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Had the curry lunch buffet,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Had the curry lunch buffet, many choices, all well prepared. Cardomom-infused creme brulee is th die for."
Dined on 07/04/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, great for lunch
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Review 11 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fabulous, food and service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Fabulous, food and service world class"
Dined on 16/03/2013
2009
Special Features: romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 12 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A truly classic establishment
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"A truly classic establishment that transports you back to the pinnacle of the British empire and colonial expansion. This place is pricey, for sure, but it is well worth it. The service is extremely professional, attentive and available but not overbearing at all. The curry buffet is excellent with some of the best melt in your mouth butter chicken you'll find in Victoria. The cocktail menu is a mix of old world classics and modern creations. This is not the place to go if you're only drinking for effect, but if you're looking for a few well crafted drinks in a high class setting then the Bengal Lounge is for you.-"
Dined on 06/03/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 13 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A little pricey, but a much
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"A little pricey, but a much better value for an experience at the Empress than the overhyped, overpriced afternoon "Tea at the Empress." You can order a la carte if you choose, but I would recommend the Indian themed buffet for lunch or dinner. The colonial Indian decor is interesting and a reminder of why the hotel is called The Empress."
Dined on 13/02/2013
2006
Special Features: great for lunch
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Review 14 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Wonderful ambience and good
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Wonderful ambience and good food (luncheon curry buffet). Service was a bit unrefined considering the grand hotel setting and the price for the luncheon buffet."
Dined on 14/02/2013
2013
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Review 15 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
wife's favorite
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My wife enjoys coming here for the atmosphere and the decor. Rich dark browns and comfy leather chairs. I like the Indian Buffet and the reasonable prices. You cannot visit Victoria, BC without a stop at the Empress. The Bengal Lounge is a step down in price to their main dining area, however, the food quality is quite good and the money saved can be spent at the gift shops nearby."
Dined on 15/02/2013
2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, scenic view
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Review 16 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Romantic Lunch
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Had an excellent Valentine's day lunch there. Food, service and atmosphere were great and the value for quality was excellent!"
Dined on 14/02/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 17 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Unfortunately the kitchen
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Unfortunately the kitchen was closed and only the buffet available. Fortunately my guest liked Indian food and the buffet is excellent."
Dined on 07/02/2013
2011
Special Features: notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 18 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
I actually requested more
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I actually requested more vegetarian options on the small buffet. The lounge changed the bean soup to seafood chowder. Also changed was the vegetable korma to tikka paneer. I was thinking of ordering Macrobiotic from the menu. The waiter assured me the buffet was a gem. I asked how to eat it and followed the given advice. Start with some soup if you like, then rice with 3 of the curries, a good salad and dessert. I tried the rice with paneer, lamb and butter chicken. Followed it up with salad and raita. And finished with the desserts. It was impressive. The food was exceptional (and that's coming from a 40-year old that was raised vegetarian, however, now I am flexitarian)."
Dined on 06/02/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 19 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Took 2 friend to lunch. Curry
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Took 2 friend to lunch. Curry bufet was very good. Was charge $5.00 for" regular" coffee. Really!!!! Waiter had slopped it when he brought it to table. My guess had to put a napkin on saucer to keep from dripping on her clothes"
Dined on 31/01/2013
2013
Special Features: great for brunch
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Review 20 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We were hotel guests looking
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were hotel guests looking for some elegant dining with close friends on a Thursday evening. The empress lounge was closed so we made our reservation at the Bengal Lounge. Surprisingly, it happened to be "cocktail night" so it was boisterous, crowded and loud with the buffet being the main feature.
Having spent many years in the far east, I can suggest that the food at the buffet was well constructed but lacked flavour and bordered on being institutional. The buffet was well maintained throughout the night and service was generally above average.
I would recommend the Bengal lounge to someone looking for average dining and a party atmosphere. Not our "cup of tea"; we escaped to our room with unusual hast."
Dined on 31/01/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
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Review 21 for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The Curry Buffet is 'tired'
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The Curry Buffet is 'tired' and I think that the 'buffet' presentation is easily surpassed at other establishments.
The server was also tired and 'European', ie., aloof.
The place is great, though I liked it better when it had it ceiling hangers and center foliage. That gave it it's character.
Martini was great!"
Dined on 22/01/2013
2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Ratings-Only Reviews for The Bengal Lounge - The Fairmont Empress Hotel
Based on the average of (18) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
2 out of 2 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate