The hotel was splendid, 150 years of history and Taj has maintained its rustic look. Raised ceilings, wooden floor, fire place and colonial type furniture.
Food was excellent, the only place you will get good food in all of Coonoor, Hamilton Bar serves as the local watering hole, though a little collection they have the best use of resources available. "The Hot Toddy" was a relish to an aching throat and a must try. Buffet had a wide spread but interestingly South Indian variants that are a delight to eat with local spices and veggies sourced. If you are interested in authentic traditional south Indian dishes (Thondaimandalam dishes), this is the place to try it. Especially, the Rasam, Kara Kozhambu, Meen Poondu Kozhambu and the railway lamb curry are the best.
I reserved the last for the best, the staffs! Ever smiling & ever accommodating. They try the best for you to feel at home. My wife had some chronic neck pain and they were regular in providing ice packs even if we forgot to ask.
Overall, this place is a hit and has many regulars, I believe they have earned a regular in us as well.