Ovolo Nishi is a Selected hotel located in Canberra, Australia. It has been recognized by the Michelin Guide for its exceptional hospitality and unique experience.

How many Michelin Keys does Ovolo Nishi have?

Ovolo Nishi has been awarded Selected by the Michelin Guide, indicating a very special stay.

Where is Ovolo Nishi located?

Ovolo Nishi is located in Canberra, Australia, in the Oceania region.

What makes a Selected hotel special?

Selected hotels provide very special stays with excellent service and a unique sense of place.

How do I book Ovolo Nishi?

You can view more details and booking information for Ovolo Nishi through the Michelin Guide website. Each Michelin Keys hotel offers a unique booking experience tailored to their guests.

Ovolo Nishi | Selected in Canberra, Australia

Name: Ovolo Nishi
Address: Canberra, Oceania, Australia
Rating: 4.5

Expert Review: Ovolo Nishi

Ovolo Nishi in Canberra, Australia, stands out as a "Michelin Key Selected property," celebrated for its distinctive design, prime location, and exceptional guest experience. It consistently receives high praise, often described as one of Australia's best and most original boutique hotels.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Ovolo Nishi is overwhelmingly positive. Guests frequently laud its unique character, stylish ambiance, and its ability to offer a memorable stay. It's often highlighted as a hotel that significantly enhances the Canberra experience. The Michelin Key selection indicates a "high quality stay," affirming its standing as a top-tier hotel.

2. Key Highlights

Guests are particularly drawn to Ovolo Nishi's daring and moody design, featuring reclaimed timber, textured concrete, and an eclectic mix of art and vintage furniture, making it an "Instagrammer's dream". Its location in the vibrant NewActon arts and cultural precinct is another major draw, offering easy access to attractions. The hotel is also praised for its practical amenities, including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a free "Apero Hour" with drinks, and a complimentary mini-bar included with some rates.

3. Room Quality

Ovolo Nishi offers a range of rooms and apartments, from the intimate "Cosy" and "Snug" rooms to the more expansive "Meandering Atrium" and "Sanctum Suite." The rooms are designed with an organic warmth, featuring plush beds, proper linens, and Aesop products in the spacious bathrooms. Many rooms incorporate reclaimed wood, roughly textured concrete, and restored vintage furniture, with designs inspired by the Australian landscape. Amenities often include smart TVs with Chromecast, walk-in rain showers, air conditioning, and heated bathroom floors. Some "Atrium" rooms overlook a lush indoor fern garden, while "Sun" rooms provide natural light and views of bushland or the lake. However, some guests have noted that certain rooms, particularly on lower floors or facing the atrium, can be quite dark, with low lighting.

4. Dining Experience

Monster Kitchen & Bar, the hotel's restaurant, is described as stylish and an exciting dining destination in Canberra. Since October 2020, Monster Kitchen & Bar has pivoted its menu to be entirely vegetarian for a period, though it now offers a balance of locally sourced meats and plant-based dishes, celebrating local and seasonal produce. Breakfast, often included with direct bookings, is lauded as an "awesome" and extensive buffet, featuring items like cheese, meats, guacamole, soft-boiled eggs, sourdough, fruits, yogurts, muesli, and pastries. The bar offers craft beers, local wines, and aesthetically pleasing seasonal cocktails. While the vegetarian focus has been appreciated by many, some guests have expressed disappointment or surprise at the lack of traditional meat options, particularly for breakfast, and there have been occasional mentions of inconsistent service at the restaurant.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Ovolo Nishi is consistently highlighted as excellent. Reception staff are praised for being genuinely friendly, helpful, and accommodating, offering recommendations and flexible check-out times. A dedicated concierge team is also available to assist guests.

6. Location & Accessibility

Located in the NewActon arts and cultural precinct, Ovolo Nishi boasts an exceptional and central location. It's within easy walking distance of major attractions such as the National Museum of Australia, Lake Burley Griffin, Commonwealth Park, and the Palace Electric Cinema, which is located within the same building. Other key attractions like Parliament House, Questacon, and the Australian War Memorial are just a short drive or bus ride away. The surrounding precinct offers numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes. While parking is available, it is limited and charged separately.

7. Value & Pricing

Ovolo Nishi is considered an "affordable luxury" option in Canberra. With an average room price around $201, it is slightly higher than the city's average, but guests generally feel it provides exceptional value for the unparalleled comfort and experience offered. Booking directly often includes perks like flexible cancellations and a complimentary drink at "Apero Hour."

8. Common Complaints

While largely positive, some recurring criticisms include the sometimes dark nature of certain rooms, especially "bunker rooms" or those facing the atrium, which might not appeal to all guests. Initial guest feedback noted the exclusive vegetarian menu at Monster Kitchen & Bar as a surprise or disappointment for those expecting more traditional options. There have also been isolated complaints regarding perceived inconsistencies in restaurant service and, in a few instances, cleanliness or room size. Traffic noise can also be an issue for road-facing rooms.