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Real InterContinental San Salvador unveils a new phase in the transformation of its facilities, the result of a modernization process underway since july 2025. The renovation encompasses social spaces, restaurants, wellness areas, event venues, and services designed to meet the evolving expectations of hotel guests, business travelers, and local salvadoran patrons.
This evolution is part of a broader strategy by Real Hotels & Resorts, which focuses on maintaining competitive hospitality offering through the continuous updating of infrastructure, culinary concepts, and service experiences. With these enhancements, the hotel strengthens its hospitality proposition in San Salvador and expands the options available for tourism, corporate meetings, social events, and entertainment.
The modernization process began with the renovation of venues for social and corporate events, as well as the Club InterContinental, located on the hotel’s eighth floor. Subsequently, the pool area, fitness center, and reception spaces were revamped, alongside the introduction of new offerings such as the Azul Pool Bar, Presence Spa & Wellness Center, and Zambra Lobby Bar & Coffee.
One of the most significant changes is in the lobby, which has been redesigned to create a more spacious, bright, and welcoming atmosphere. The reception area was relocated to improve access for guests and visitors, while the raised central ceiling allows for an influx of natural light. The design project was led by Murphy Cramer, a U.S.-based firm specializing in interior architecture and space planning for the hospitality industry.
As part of this transformation, the hotel has introduced Zambra Lobby Bar & Coffee, a space that transitions from offering coffee and fine pastries in the early hours to serving a full range of cuisine and cocktails throughout the afternoon and evening. This concept aligns with a key trend in contemporary hospitality: the creation of versatile environments that serve as hubs for informal meetings, social interaction, and entertainment.
Gastronomic innovation as part of the tourism offering
Gastronomy is the cornerstone of this new phase. The hotel has renovated its restaurants, Faisca do Brasil and Picasso Cocina de Arte, and completed its transformation in october 2026 with the opening of NAU Sushi & Robatayaki, a new concept specializing in Japanese cuisine.
NAU offers a menu that combines high-end sushi, signature cocktails, and robatayaki, a traditional japanese technique in which meats, seafood, and vegetables are grilled over charcoal. Its addition expands the hotel’s dining options, providing a fresh alternative for those seeking unique culinary experiences in San Salvador. Meanwhile, Faisca do Brasil continues to offer its brazilian rodizio, featuring over 16 cuts of meat and a variety of side dishes, while Picasso Cocina de Arte presents a revamped menu of pizzas, pastas, meats, and other specialties. The hotel’s culinary program is led by Executive Chef Vicent Botinaud, who received his training in France and has a background working in Michelin-starred restaurants and international hospitality.
The renovation of these spaces aims to strengthen San Salvador’s appeal as a destination for gastronomic experiences, catering both to tourists and to residents who wish to discover new culinary offerings without needing to stay at the hotel.
Modernization and new opportunities for business tourism
The transformation also includes spaces designed for business meetings, conferences, celebrations, and social events, all of which are key segments for hotel operations and tourism-related services.
From an economic perspective, the modernization of the hotel’s infrastructure and the diversification of its services represent a strategic effort to maintain the competitiveness of the capital’s tourism offerings. Such initiatives also help to invigorate sectors related to gastronomy, event planning, and the provision of specialized services.
“At Real InterContinental San Salvador, we believe that hospitality must constantly evolve to meet the expectations of our guests and the local market. This transformation reflects our commitment to offering modern spaces, distinctive culinary concepts, and experiences that strengthen San Salvador’s position as an attractive destination for tourism, business, and entertainment”, says María José Escudero, general manager of the Real InterContinental Hotel, San Salvador.
Wellness and entertainment in one place
The modernization also introduces a focus on personal well-being through the Presence Spa & Wellness Center, which features new facilities, treatment rooms for individuals and couples, relaxation areas, and a sauna. The space offers massages, facials, and body rituals, and is open to both hotel guests and the public in El Salvador.
This offering is complemented by a renovated gym and pool area, as well as the opening of the Azul Pool Bar, expanding the options for those seeking relaxation, dining, and entertainment all in one place.
Under its “The Place to Be” concept, the hotel hosts a variety of activities spanning music, gastronomy, fashion, culture, wellness, and sports. Highlights include the “Tardeo” social gatherings, “Zambra Sessions” musical performances, and “RODA” sports activities, initiatives designed to establish the property as a hub for a diverse range of visitors.
“The transformation unveiled in 2026 is part of an ongoing modernization strategy driven by Real Hotels & Resorts, which has also carried out renovations across various properties in its regional portfolio. In El Salvador, the evolution of the Real InterContinental will continue into 2027, with a new phase of guest room remodeling planned to further modernize the lodging experience and build upon the improvements already made to the public areas”, explained Fernando Poma, President of Real Hotels & Resorts.
Real InterContinental San Salvador has distinguished itself as a comprehensive accommodation option, blending hospitality with entertainment and corporate activities. It transcends the traditional hotel concept, serving as a space where tourism experiences, business relationships, and the city’s social life converge.
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