The Metcalfe by Gray Collection

The Metcalfe by Gray Collection stands out as a "Michelin Key Selected property" in Ottawa, offering a stylish and intimate boutique hotel experience in a prime downtown location. Renovated and reopened in 2022, it combines Art Deco aesthetics with industrial charm, reflecting the Gray Collection's signature approach to hospitality.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for The Metcalfe by Gray Collection is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently praising its decor, comfort, cleanliness, and excellent location. It holds an "Excellent" rating of 8.7 based on over 900 reviews on Booking.com. Many consider it one of their favorite hotels in the city.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently love the hotel's central location, its distinctive and stylish design, and the friendly, helpful staff. The "Living Room" lobby lounge, with its plush sofas and cozy atmosphere, is often highlighted as a comfortable space for relaxing or working. The hotel's unique "signature scent" is also frequently mentioned by guests as a pleasant detail. Amenities include a swimming pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and free Wi-Fi.

3. Room Quality

The 108 allergy-free rooms are described as handsome, light-filled, and loft-inspired. Guests consistently rate the rooms as clean, comfortable, and stylish. They feature premium bedding, laptop-friendly workspaces, air conditioning, mini-fridges or mini-bars, and tea/coffee facilities. Many rooms offer city views. Bathrooms are often noted as spacious and clean, with all necessary provisions. Some rooms also include ironing facilities and bathrobes. Available room types range from Classic Queen and King rooms to Executive Kings, Superior Two Queens, and larger Corner and Junior Suites.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel's on-site American and French-inspired restaurant, Cocotte Bistro, receives high praise for its delicious food and excellent quality, open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Guests particularly enjoy dishes like steak frites and Canadian oysters. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. While the food itself is often rated as fabulous, some guests have noted that the service in the restaurant can be slow, especially at breakfast. There is also a lounge bar available.

5. Service & Staff

The staff at The Metcalfe by Gray Collection are consistently lauded as friendly, helpful, courteous, professional, and welcoming. Guest feedback often highlights their attentiveness and willingness to assist with inquiries or requests, including accommodating late check-outs and room changes. The hotel's multilingual staff is also appreciated for helping guests navigate the city.

6. Location & Accessibility

The Metcalfe boasts a "perfect" and "ideal" central downtown Ottawa location, earning a high 9.6 rating for location. It is within easy walking distance of major attractions such as Parliament Hill (just a few blocks away), Confederation Park, the National Arts Centre, and the ByWard Market. Public transport, including Parliament city rail, is also easily accessible. The hotel is nestled close to government offices and is about 1.3 km from the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica.

7. Value & Pricing

While specific price ranges vary depending on the season and room type, the hotel is generally considered a 4-star "Superior First Class" property. Given its stylish design, prime location, and positive guest experiences, many guests find it to be a good value for the cost. Parking is available, with valet parking costing approximately CAD 47 per day.

8. Common Complaints

While overall feedback is largely positive, a few recurring issues or criticisms have been noted:

• Restaurant Service Speed: Several guests have reported slow service in the Cocotte Bistro, particularly during breakfast.
• Noise: Some guests have experienced noisy rooms, especially if located near elevators or housekeeping areas, or due to HVAC rattling.
• Breakfast Availability: Despite offering complimentary breakfast, there have been instances where guests found no tables available for breakfast, suggesting a need for reservations.
• Parking Cost: The cost of valet parking (CAD 47 per day) is mentioned, and private parking nearby also incurs charges.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. urbanguidequebec.com
3. booking.com
4. booking.com
5. booking.com
6. expedia.com
7. tablethotels.com
8. hotels.com
9. ottawachotel.com
10. hotelottawa.net
11. ontariocahotel.com
12. ottawa-ca.com
13. travelweekly.com
14. mtlrestorap.com