The Plaza On The Pike

For travelers seeking accommodations in the "Hotels Near Of Me" category around the Atlantic City area, particularly in Egg Harbor Township, The Plaza On The Pike (also sometimes referred to as The Plaza On The Pike Hotel Atlantic City West by OYO or Sonesta Essential Atlantic City West in some listings) presents a budget-conscious option with a unique feature: an on-site kosher restaurant. Located at 6813 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234, USA, this hotel aims to provide a practical stay for visitors to the South Jersey region, balancing affordability with accessibility to the area's attractions.

The environment of The Plaza On The Pike offers a mixed impression, as indicated by recent guest feedback. While the hotel's exterior and curb appeal may appear inviting upon arrival, especially from the front, a deeper look reveals an ongoing situation that impacts the overall guest experience. The property is situated on a major road, Black Horse Pike, providing convenient vehicular access to shopping centers, other restaurants, and the nearby Atlantic City casinos and beaches, which are approximately a 15-minute drive away. This location is often highlighted as a positive aspect by guests. However, recent reviews strongly suggest that the hotel is undergoing significant renovations, which unfortunately have led to disruptions and affected the interior environment. Some guests have noted that the "street front was completely blacked out including their sign," indicating ongoing work on the exterior visibility. The overall indoor environment, particularly in common areas and rooms, is described as being a "hot mess" by some, with visible signs of renovation in progress rather than completed updates. This means that while the intent for a refreshed look might be there, guests should expect an active construction or renovation environment during their stay.

The services at The Plaza On The Pike aim to provide essential hotel functions, though consistency appears to be a challenge during the renovation period. A 24-hour front desk is available to assist guests with check-in, check-out (typically 3 PM check-in and 11 AM check-out), and other inquiries. Some positive feedback points to a "very kind and accommodating" front desk staff, suggesting that individual employees strive to offer good service despite operational challenges. However, other reviews mention that employees "could really use training," indicating potential inconsistencies in service delivery across the board. The hotel typically offers complimentary Wi-Fi access in rooms and public areas, which is a standard and expected amenity for most travelers. Daily housekeeping is generally provided, although the effectiveness of this during renovation periods, and the overall cleanliness of rooms, has been a point of concern for some guests. For instance, reviews mention "blood on my rag," and "sand in the sheets," and "carpet was greasy," indicating significant issues with cleanliness that prospective guests should be aware of. Additionally, issues like "cards kept deactivating" and rooms being "overbooked" point to operational challenges that can lead to guest frustration.

The features of The Plaza On The Pike, as advertised and noted in some reviews, include an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center/gym, and meeting facilities. The outdoor pool, while available, has been critically reviewed by guests as potentially being subpar ("shouldn't even be considered a pool at all!"). This suggests that recreational amenities might not be fully functional or well-maintained during the renovation phase. The fitness center typically provides cardio machines and weights, offering a basic workout space. The hotel also boasts 4000 sq. feet of meeting space across one meeting room, capable of holding up to 100 people, making it suitable for small events or corporate gatherings. Other reported room amenities include flat-screen TVs, in-room fridges, microwaves, and coffee/tea setups, with some listings also mentioning safes, iron/ironing boards, and air conditioning. Free breakfast is sometimes included in certain room types or offered for an additional charge. The hotel is also listed as pet-friendly, with specific policies regarding fees and weight limits.

A distinctive feature of The Plaza On The Pike, and a significant draw for a specific clientele, is the on-site kosher restaurant, Shari's Bistro. This open-air kosher restaurant and bar opened in December 2023, offering a "casual but upscale" dining experience with "fresh ingredients" and "pretty darn good" steaks, as noted in a positive review. It operates under rabbinical supervision ("Mashgiach at all times"), making it a notable option for those seeking kosher meals in the Atlantic City area. This restaurant offers a unique dining proposition that sets the hotel apart from many others in the region. Other dining options are available nearby on Black Horse Pike, including various chain restaurants.

Regarding promotional information, The Plaza On The Pike, being associated with OYO and Sonesta Essential (as suggested by some listing names), may participate in their respective loyalty programs or offer branded discounts. As an economy-focused property, competitive pricing is a key aspect of its appeal. Guests can typically find rates by booking through major online travel agencies or by contacting the hotel directly at (609) 484-1500 or +1 609-484-1500. Seasonal promotions or package deals, especially for those looking to visit Atlantic City's casinos or for group bookings, might be available. However, given the ongoing renovation status and mixed reviews, it is strongly advised for prospective guests to call the hotel directly to inquire about the current state of renovations, available amenities, and any potential impacts on their stay. Booking sites and customer reviews suggest that it might be operating under a different brand or that the renovations are extensive and ongoing, impacting guest comfort. One review explicitly advises against staying "until they complete their renovations," citing issues like "police were called out because there were major problems with people not being able to get their money back" and referring to the property as a "dumpster" and "hazard." This feedback indicates severe operational challenges and cleanliness issues that prospective guests must weigh carefully. The hotel's last reported renovation year is 2018, which conflicts with current customer experiences suggesting ongoing or recent major overhauls.

In conclusion, The Plaza On The Pike in Egg Harbor Township aims to provide an affordable and conveniently located stay near Atlantic City, with the added benefit of an on-site kosher restaurant. However, based on recent customer reviews, prospective guests searching for "Hotels Near Of Me" should be aware of significant ongoing renovations and associated challenges, including cleanliness issues, operational problems, and potentially limited access to or quality of amenities. It is a property that currently requires careful consideration and direct inquiry before booking, especially for those seeking a smooth and comfortable experience beyond basic lodging and the appeal of its kosher dining.