If there was only a way to rate the W zero stars...
I attend gatherings at the W essentially when I'm compelled by friends. I've now been several times, and I'm now at the point where if I do go, I will do my best not to give them a dime of my money.
Pretentious is the theme here. The W is a souped up Westin with dim lighting and DJ Douchebag spinning his iTunes library -- why do they require six bouncers and two sets of velvet ropes just to enter the bar?
The last time I was there was a rainy wednesday. I arrived at 5PM to meet friends from out of town (who were hotel guests) for a drink. The roof deck bar was empty. The pool (next to the bar) was empty. After spending a wad of money on drinks and food, I left to walk my friend to her room, intending to be back in 5 minutes to hang out with some other friends. Upon my return, I was denied entry by the bouncer who declared my attire as a "dress code violation." Apparently, you cannot wear shorts by the pool, in the summer. Keep in mind I was OK five minutes prior, but the sun was descending in Arizona and I was no longer welcome.
The bouncer allowed me to say goodbye to my friends, and then escorted me out like a criminal. The bouncer actually apologized to me, but claimed there was nothing he could do unless I changed into pants.
I wasn't going to write this review, but I wrote a sincere, cordial letter to the hotel's General Manager and received no reply. This was four months ago.
I was back at the W last night for an event -- this time I was intentionally the designated driver. They charged me $3 for a club soda.
Whomever runs the W needs to step down from the ivory tower and take a business class or two. Customer service is more important than bottle service.