A new boutique hotel has opened its doors in the heart of Montreal’s vibrant Griffintown neighborhood. Maison Grinder, a 15-room boutique hotel, exudes warmth and tranquility. Although it’s a delightful place, it still has a few kinks to work out. This article will take you on a journey through the hotel, highlighting its features, room for improvement, and the surrounding neighborhood.
The Maison Grinder Experience
Located in a heritage building, Maison Grinder’s chic black-rimmed, Parisian sign is hard to miss. The hotel’s tranquil atmosphere coupled with its stylish interior makes it a comforting retreat, especially during the cold winter months. The interior décor features a mixture of low-slung leather couches, wicker furniture embellished with beaded light fixtures, flickering candles, and wood accents.
The rooms maintain the same aesthetic, with exposed brick, black walls, natural materials, and candles. Despite the dark palette, the rooms feel warm and cozy, thanks to the large arched windows that let in ample light and offer a street view. The rooms also come with fluffy bathrobes and a decent speaker, adding to the overall comfort.
Improvements Needed
While Maison Grinder offers a unique and warm experience, it still has some areas to improve. The in-room breakfast, though a convenient feature, lacks variety and excitement. Although the Greek yogurt with berries and banana bread is tasty, the options are limited. It’s also important to note that guests need to request breakfast every day, which isn’t mentioned at check-in.
Another area of concern is the room layout, which seems to prioritize design over functionality. The ensuite is separated from the main room by a sink and vanity. This arrangement can be awkward, especially when guests need to use the mirror, which is on an adjacent wall.
Neighborhood Attractions
One of the best things about Maison Grinder is its location. The hotel is situated in the chic neighborhood of Griffintown, close to the Lachine Canal. The canal is an excellent spot for a morning run or a walk. The proximity to Atwater Market also offers guests the chance to enjoy an al fresco lunch.
Several standout restaurants like Candide, Liverpool House, Le Vin Papillon, Bar Otto, Foxy, La Bête à Pain, and the highly acclaimed Joe Beef are within walking distance. For a unique dining experience, Candide is a must-visit. It offers a set menu of inventive seasonal plates that changes monthly.
Conclusion
Despite some minor issues, Maison Grinder offers a promising weekend escape. Its stylish interior, walkable location, and proximity to excellent dining, shopping, and art make it an ideal urban oasis. While the hotel’s vibe may cater to a younger demographic, it holds potential for all. With a little more fine-tuning, Maison Grinder could become one of Montreal’s top boutique hotels.
Maison Grinder is located at 1730 Notre Dame W. Rooms start at $275. For views, ask for a room that faces Notre Dame West. Breakfast is included (remember to preorder it every day at the front desk). Valet parking is available upon request.
The writer was a guest of the hotel. The hotel did not review or approve the article before publication.
