Am here now and they are back to serving alcohol until 19:00 (lounge still at Basilico on all days except Saturday), starting today. Also got an upgrade to the Diplomatic Suite, which is overkill honestly (not complaining!). The hotel finally now recognizes me as a regular repeat, and had a very nice welcome gift waiting in the suite as well on check in, including a note from the GM, Miriam Varoli.

Again, I know the location can be an issue for some people, but now I don't stay anywhere else in Osaka, even with Marriott and all their hotels in the region. This is my go-to getaway. I love the quiet leafy environs of this island, the easy connect with the shuttle or the Chuo line to the town and in general the staff and the overall experience at this hotel. Can't believe this is my fourth stay in less than a year.