hotel review: sheraton phoenix downtown

(Phoenix, Arizona).  Another business trip and another business hotel.  Most of the time, these hotels are relatively interchangeable, but I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised by the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown.
 

Sunset from my room.

Upon arrival, it was clear that this was a newer Sheraton - more contemporary and spacious.  The service was very friendly and helpful - especially in the lobby bar which turned out to be a very social and fun hangout for our business offsite.  The whiskey selection was a little limited but overall, the drinks were pretty good.



Check in:  Very quick and efficient.  I didn't realize this was a Starwood property.  It was nice being able to get a late checkout and free WiFi as a Starwood Gold member. (good, strong connection)

Room:  A typical business hotel room, but the bed was comfortable and the bedding was acceptable - not scratchy like my experience in Des Moines.   I didn't notice any noise issues either.

The bathroom was clean; decent toiletries.  Water pressure was good, except one night it took a while to get hot water.  

Like a good business hotel - there was a small coffee maker in the room and they actually had dairy free creamer.  Always a plus in my book.  There was also a small safe in the closet which was large enough for a laptop.

Food:  I didn't get an opportunity to try room service, but I did enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant - District American Kitchen and Wine Bar. The food and service were quite good.

The hotel also catered our business meetings and the snacks were lovely.  We had chocolate chip cookies at one session, delicious mini cupcakes at another, and then healthy veggies and humus for an afternoon break.  

I didn't get to use the hotel pool or gym, but the pictures looked nice.  

Service:  As noted above, the service was top-notch.  Very fun, friendly and helpful all around.

Check-out:  Very quick and easy - the bill was accurate, and I was able to take off quickly and grab a shuttle to the airport.

Misc:  The hotel is located across from a complex with a movie theater and multiple restaurants and retail stores, which offers a nice reprieve.

 Recommended?  Yes!  I've had to travel a lot in the last year and this was probably the most pleasant business hotel experience in a long time.