The Grand Dame of Vancouver is the Fairmont Hotel, now celebrating its 85th year as an icon of elegance and sophistication. Standing tall as the “Castle in the City,” this architectural landmark is recognized across the globe for its reputation for excellence throughout the decades.
When I stepped into the lobby, I was immediately transported into a world of unsurpassed luxury and style, culinary innovation, and high-end shopping experiences. There is an air of graciousness throughout the hotel.
Choose from a variety of spacious rooms and suites featuring all of the latest amenities with marble bathrooms, plush towels and specialty bath products.
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Fairmont Gold Creates An Upscale Experience
I upgraded my stay to the Fairmont Gold level and was rewarded with the ultimate in indulgences. Delicious fare and gracious service are available throughout the day, starting with a daily deluxe European breakfast, tea between 2 pm and 4 pm, canapes between 5 pm and 7 pm, and desserts from 7 pm to 9 pm. I couldn’t wait to see what the chef had prepared for me each day. Their breakfast scrambles, fresh-baked muffins and mini-pastries were over-the-top and delicious.
The private lounge features plenty of comfortable seating and work spaces with a dedicated concierge team to assist me with reservations, tours, and more. They suggested where to go to dinner and we enjoyed their recommendations. The best part is you can even check in and check out from the convenience of the Fairmont Gold level, without waiting in line. Enjoy complimentary parking, too.
Discover Exclusive Shopping and More
Where else but at the Fairmont Hotel can you find so many upscale shops, all in one place? Here you can bag Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and St. John with boutique stores located right in the lobby. Across the street in this upscale neighborhood are Tiffany, Hermes, Jimmy Choo, and other high-end retailers. You’re sure to find something really special to bring home from these legacy retailers.
Opening in 1939, the Fairmont Hotel has served as a host to world leaders, paying homage to its Canadian Pacific Railway legacy. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, were guests before the start of the war. Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip officially visited in 1971 with other famous guests including Winston Churchill and Babe Ruth. Scenes from “The Good Wife” and “Fifty Shades of Grey” were also filmed here, further bolstering the hotel’s relationship as an iconic setting.
Read More: Best Things to Do in Vancouver with Kids
Gourmet Dining Heralds the 85th Anniversary Celebration with “Dinner Through the Decades”
Restaurant Notch8, named for the top speed of the trains that only the most skilled engineers can achieve, offers a collection of “Dinner through the Decades,” through the end of September 2024. This prix-fixe, three-course dinner creates a unique dining experience that offers a nostalgic journey through the hotel’s rich culinary history, highlighting many of the restaurants’ most beloved entrées and desserts.
Chef Kay Noh has curated a menu of favorites through the famous dining rooms in the hotel, adding his own special touches. The dinner costs $85 per person with optional Wine Pairings available for an additional fee. You’ll have several delicious choices for most courses.
To start my fabulous “Dinner through the Decades,” I began with the Hearts of Lettuce from the Panorama Roof (1939). Beautifully presented as a Caesar Salad that comes wrapped in lettuce, this starter tasted as good as it looked. There were three entrees to choose from. My dining partners all raved about the succulent Pan-Seared Halibut that was juicy and tasty. Another choice is the Summer Vegetable Risotto.
It was a difficult decision, but I went with the Tenderloin of Beef Minute, served with gratin dauphinois potatoes, French green beans, and king oyster mushrooms from the Timbers Club (1960.) The Old-Fashioned Strawberry Shortcake from Griffin’s, (1990) was recreated for the grand finale. It was the perfect combination of sweet and refreshing to end the meal.
Notch8 is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and happy hour.
Don’t Miss High Tea at the Fairmont Vancouver
Every season, the Fairmont Hotel changes the theme, menu, and beverage offerings for their Afternoon Tea. For the summer, the hotel has collaborated with the Vancouver Art Gallery to celebrate renowned artist Emily Carr. The immersive Afternoon Tea is themed, “Into The Forest With Emily Carr” inspired by the legacy of the 20th-century Canadian artist who painted magnificent landscapes of British Columbia.
Almost hidden at the back of the Notch8 Restaurant & Bar is a separate alcove. When you step into the Fairmont’s famous tea salon, you enter a world where you become immersed in an art form with colorful visual displays and a feast for the senses.
In front of you are appetite-appealing Scones, Savory, and Sweets, beautifully displayed in tree bark trivets and surrounded by a forest-themed décor. Start with a classic buttermilk scone served with cream and tasty marmalade. Savories include mushroom tarts, tuna, and chicken salad sandwiches. Sweets feature huckleberry cheesecake, maple date bar, and macarons. Choose from a selection of loose-leaf teas, my favorite being the Pomegranate Lemon, along with inspired cocktails, vino, and bubbles. Special children’s menus are available.
I recommend visiting the Vancouver Art Gallery located right across the street from the Fairmont Hotel before your seating at the tea. Here you’ll learn more about the genius of Emily Carr and see her collection of forest art which will definitely inspire your appetite for the feast.
Select an Elegant Timepiece at OMEGA Watches
To further enhance its 85th anniversary celebration, the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver has introduced the “Timeless Icons” experiences for its guests. Partnering with the OMEGA brand of watches, the new hotel experience features luxurious Fairmont Gold and suite accommodations, champagne welcomes, and private OMEGA watch consultations with timepiece keepsakes.
Omega watches have been a timeless tradition since the 1932 Olympics when absolute accuracy and precision were demanded. Astronauts even wore an OMEGA timepiece on the moon. Today, guests with discerning tastes can enjoy the ultimate in personal service when they shop for a stylish timepiece at the Omega Boutique inside the Fairmont Hotel. Check out the new Olympic and NASA watches for men and women, along with their extensive line of fine jewelry, sunglasses, and accessories. Open daily, but appointments are recommended.
Make plans to visit Vancouver and stay at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver during their 85th anniversary celebration. Check their website for special offers.
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