Roadside Chic is all about finding those hidden gems, the places that provide a perfect balance of comfort, luxury, exceptional service and the opportunity to do as much or as little as you want. We take you inside for a closer look at some of the finest hotels and resorts around the globe!
The neighbourhood of Yorkville is renowned for museums and design studios and is a favourite destination of visitors and residents of the greater Toronto area for it’s fine boutique shops and art galleries. Canada’s largest city has several similar affluent districts throughout its sprawling geographical footprint, most available by taking the subway or streetcar, but none quite hold up to the glitz and glam offered here.
The Park Hyatt Toronto has recently completed a significant four-year upgrade to what was already a posh and welcoming hotel located immediately across from the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). Other recommended attractions not far from the hotel include the Art Gallery of Ontario, Gardiner Museum and, of course, you can Uber to The Hockey Hall of Fame. After gazing at Lord Stanley’s Cup for a while, walk a little further down Front Street and take in a Toronto Blue Jays game during the spring to fall season should the team be in town.
Dining at the Park Hyatt Toronto is an experience in elegant ambience as much as it is a feast for your palate. Joni Restaurant is situated on the main floor of the hotel, with excellent views of a bustling city through floor-to-ceiling windows. Modern, cozy wood paneling provides a comfy dining setting bookended by a grand fireplace and a majestic winding staircase. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and a weekend buffet are all served here. Afternoon tea servings can be booked on Thursday-Sunday from 1-4 pm.
A total of 219 rooms including 40 suites are elegantly appointed, following the same theme of casual cool established in the restaurant and main lobby. Rich tones of natural wood, thick blue area rugs and muted wall colours are designed to relax guests from the moment you step in. Rooms and suites feature 55 and 65-inch TVs and Chromecast streaming. Suites add Bluetooth speakers and a full-size desk with city views. It’s the perfect place to get some work done should the need arise and a fully stocked Nespresso coffee maker is never far away. Bathrooms are large and luxurious; all feature Le Labo bath products.
For those times when a full meal isn’t on your list, but rather a warm and inviting place to sit and share drinks with friends, the Writer’s Room Bar has a 50-year reputation of great storytelling and exceptional mixed cocktails to enjoy. Located on the 17th floor of the hotel, it is the ideal setting to chill and experience incredible views of Toronto in every direction. There is no place quite like it in the city and a must see when staying here.
Need to relax and de-stress? Make an appointment at Stillwater Spa. Guests can take advantage of 13 treatment rooms and a full compliment of spa and nail services. Wear your housecoat from the room and don’t be surprised if you spot a celebrity or two in the lobby as this is a favourite stop for Hollywood’s elite when visiting the city. Those in the know understand this is one of Toronto’s finest places to stay and now with all of the recent changes made, the desirability factor has increased tenfold.