The enormous glass-fronted Thompson Hotel sits comfortably between a block of flats and low-rise houses. Upon walking into the spacious lobby that runs right through to the bar into the main restaurant, the pull to explore the rest of the hotel is irrestible. Designed by Studio Gaia, the hotel is nothing short of stylish, and with the designers' meticulous attention to detail, the Thompson flies right into our Toronto top five. Well-designed, completely in your face but somehow not too pretentious, the hotel works very well for a varied crowd, from the fashionista to the socialite, for a romantic break or a long weekend with friends or family.
The playful décor helps to break up the open plan design on the ground floor. The bright contemporary furniture lighting fixtures add cheerfulness to an otherwise very grown up hang-out.
Having this much space is great for busy nights, although it can feel a little empty on your regular Monday evening. For something a little cosier, there is the café also on the ground floor just off to the left of the reception area.
Upstairs, you will find the spa area, which considering the size and allure of the hotel, was a bit disappointing as it is tiny. However, there is a huge gym to compensate. There is also a large screening room, which is used during TIFF (Tribeca International Film Festival), a beautiful subdued club in the hotel's underbelly, and if you're after something even more relaxed, then there is the hotel yoga studio - for timings, ask at reception before arrival at the hotel.
For something truly exclusive, then you have to rub shoulders with the right people to become a member of the members-only roof-top bar with the city's only infinity-edged outdoor pool and 360° views of the Toronto skyline - and trust us, it's worth it.