A HIDDEN GEM HOTEL WELL WORTH DISCOVERING

Laid Back, Clever and Cozy

Kimpton Saint George perfectly captures all that is unique and special about Toronto

BY TAMMY CECCO

and if you want something slightly less casual, the flat iron Steak Frites is worthy of a second visit.

Toronto may home to an endless list of luxury hotels, each with their own vibe and many with their own claim to fame, be it a world class spa or covetable location. But on a recent staycation, I discovered the Kimpton Saint George, an unexpected gem that until this visit had not been on my hotel radar.

The hotel’s own description of their design inspiration turned out to be right on the mark–the intent being to convey the untold story of Toronto and all of its eclectic eccentricities. The Toronto-based firm behind the hotel’s interior, Mason Studio, wanted the space to evoke and embody the heart and soul of the Annex while shining a light on the more intimate details of Toronto, which residents hold close to their hearts. Their communication of this is perfect and from the moment I arrived, I felt like I was being welcomed into someone’s home. The intimate reception and lobby area is outfitted with comfortable seating and a cozy fireplace adds to the overall warmth. Kimpton St. George was a welcome alternative to a large hotel in the centre of the hustle and bustle. The location is perfect, but the size and style of the hotel was anything but ordinary– cultivating a totally unique vibe reflective of the city itself and offering a one-of-akind experience in Toronto.

Rooms here are uniquely decorated in warm tones with a blend of modern and retro touches. My room had a vintage turntable with a varied selection of LPs, perfect for unwinding at the end of the night.

The onsite Fortunate Fox restaurant, has a relaxing yet upscale ambiance featuring elevated pub fare. The service is excellent and the intimate experience of the hotel is echoed here making it seem like you’re heading into some kind of speakeasy or an exclusive spot only locals would know about. The range of cocktails is as impressive as their list of premium spirits. The smash burger is heaven

Cool Perks and Quirks

Kimpton Saint George also goes above and beyond where amenities are concerned.

• Morning coffee and tea are provided in the lobby credenza and you can enjoy a glass of wine during social hour from 5 to 6 p.m. in the lobby.

• The fitness centre is small but functional and has a newly added Peloton.

• Yoga mats are provided in every guest room to ensure you maintain your Zen during your stay and complimentary PUBLIC bikes are available for guests.

• Open your closet and you can’t help but smile when you spot the White Squirrel, a nod to Toronto’s infamous albino white squirrels found specifically in Trinity Bellwoods Park.

• Bottled cocktails made specifically for Kimpton Saint George are available for purchase at the front desk.

• The huge mirror in the elevator lobby is the perfect place for a quick pic while you wait and is an extension of the art tastefully placed throughout the hotel, including one-of-akind hand-dipped metal wall pieces by artist and designer Laura Langford in every guest room.

• The property’s 1,500-squarefoot pre-function lounge and meeting room each provide a welcoming and flexible place for work and play, specifically catering to intimate gatherings.