Disini Hôtel Restaurant & Spa, Montpellier Est, The OriginalsRelais

Where to even begin with this establishment. We had called on July 25th to reserve the lunch + pool access package for August 16th. Upon arrival, however, we were informed that there were no loungers available by the pool as they were “fully booked.” Naturally, we mentioned our advance reservation. The receptionist—who neither welcomed us nor apologized—immediately blamed a colleague, claiming she was “unaware of the policy” and telling us that hotel guests take priority over visitors. Fine. We chose not to make a scene and went ahead to enjoy lunch at the restaurant. That’s when things became… interesting. 🤔 The set menu is priced at around €40 per person; we selected the vegetarian option. It is truly remarkable how completely tasteless a kitchen can manage to make a dish—apparently herbs and spices are kept under lock and key here. Some of the listed ingredients never made it to the plate, while others were presented under pompous titles that did not depict the disappointing reality (“jus reduction” turned out to be a bland broth). As for the “fully booked” pool, I have attached a photo taken during our two-hour meal. The view speaks for itself. The premises are charming at first glance, but definitely need more care—cobwebs, dead bugs, dust and garden leaves decorated the restaurant interior. Service, too, was notable mostly for its absence: no welcome, no apology, no 4 star service. Ironically, the only staff member who showed some genuine care was the one being publicly blamed for messing up our reservation. To sum it all up: a place with potential, sadly ruined by poor management and, it must be said, a chef that might need to reconsider his career choices.