Greetings to all! I have had trouble keeping up with all of you lately - we are a chatty group!
Buzzboymom (and others interested in Residence Inn) I have stayed at several and must say - it is my favorite hotel. Lots of room and great breakfast! That is a fantastic rate you got - about half the usual.
Yes - breakfast is hot and made in their own kitchen - the cooks are always out mingling, taking care of special orders, etc. Good variety - self-serve style, but more like eating at a breakfast set out in a friend's house. Usually a fireplace in the breakfast room and quite homey.
Like Disney - REsidence Inn seems to train (or choose) its staff to be extra friendly. My DD was staying at one last year, and had to get an early cab to the airport. The person from the desk came outside where she was waiting and brought her a bag of breakfast foods wrapped in foil (bagel, muffins, fruit, etc.) - without her asking. He went back into the kitchen and got it for her because their buffet was not open yet.
They take care of their guests.