While the hotel itself lived up to the majority of the hype, there were a number of minor niggles that edged that 5/5 rating just out of reach. However, that aside, the hotel itself oozes character, with the vibrant and bustling atmosphere, through to the quirky interior and staff. From the moment you step foot through the door at The Drake Hotel, you know you're in for a treat.
That being said, there were a handful of instances that put a minor dampener on our stay (although happy to be corrected). Firstly, I couldn't see, nor was I told of any additional holding fee/deposit being taken in place of potential damage or room charges, as such, this was only discovered upon notification from bank.
There were also a handful of issues with the room itself such as the shower seal causing water to flow on to the carpet, our cable TV signal being intermittent (although promptly resolved by staff upon informing front desk), the USB bedside ports not charging etc.
All in all, we both really enjoyed our stay at The Drake Hotel, and despite he aforementioned, we will most definitely be returning.
Very relaxed, trendy vibe here. Had their maple version of an old fashioned and would definitely recommend! Mostly couples and small groups on a weeknight. No problem getting seated, and I felt for the ambiance/location, prices were reasonable. Space heaters helped as the sun went down!
Only suggestion - large ice cube would help maintain the integrity of the drink for longer.
Almost 3 different bars in one. Top floor is a roof top bar and lounge. Main floor is a restaurant that turns into a dance floor and DJ. Then the basement usually has live show on most occasions. Tends to get a little rowdy and the line can get crazy long if you don't get there before 10:00pm. Nice if you want to switch between different vibes.
Been to the drake a few times but I was never fully aware of the size and functionality of this place- id only ever eaten at the restaurant on the main floor so attending a function in a party room upstairs and seeing the outdoor bar area was very cool. Our servers were attentive, helpful and kind. The food was fresh and delicious. Everyone had a blast. Will definitely consider the drake for future events.
I went to the Drake on. Sunday morning for brunch. I would recommend making reservations to guarantee a seat. There is outdoor patio seating as well as a rooftop patio and an indoor dining area. The brunch options are good for all diets, traditional bacon, egg and sausage breakfast, but there are also vegan and vegetarian options available. Beverages are plenty and range from juice to coffee, teas and morning cocktails. Street parking is free on weekends, on the residential side streets near the Drake. Great service and good food. Would go back. Keep in mind it is a tad on the pricey side for brunch.
I had brunch on the rooftop patio. Drinks were great, but the smoked salmon bagel wasn't quite what I was expecting. It was a lot of cream cheese and the salmon seemed more like cooked flake salmon than the usual strips of smoked salmon. Nonetheless, I would return for the ambiance and drinks.
Didnt like the part upon entering strange behavior. I was just casually dressed up. At entrance they showed me the menu first by telling me that if i can afford it or not. Very bad. I am pretty sure if a person is entering a place he or she knows what can he/ she afford. But service after that was nice and food was delicious. So your food and waiter saved your stars other wise zero star.
A favourite place to enjoy some downtime, I visited The Drake with my family this weekend and had another great experience. It was early when we got there, and fairly quiet. I know the place well, but Matthew was kind enough to give my daughters and I a mini-tour explaining the different areas of the property. They loved it! Thanks, Matthew, for making a good weekend that much better.
Love this place! Great place to celebrate a birthday! The rooftop is a nice outdoor lounge with chill vibes, the main floor is a dine in area that becomes a big dance floor and downstairs is like a club of its own. In my experience the music on the main floor is always the best. Lines usually get busy after 11, so if you're there before then you're good. I always have a good time here and would highly recommend the Drake!
Great central location. It's easy to find and easy to get transportation after your event. It's a good place to have a few drinks with friends. A somewhat good selection of beers. It can get packed easily. Overall a good place for a fun night out
A group of 6 of us went for brunch on Easter Friday. The brunch choices here are fantastic - both the classics (typical breakfast, for example) and a few unique items (like Dessert for Breakfast). I got the tacos done vegetarian and though the server was a little worried it wouldn't be sufficient, I thought it worked well for me personally. You have to try the scones - they are just amazing. Also, I know lots of people who love the shakshuka and the chicken and waffles, so those are options you may enjoy. Service is fantastic. You won't be disappointed.
One of the iconic landmarks of Toronto, a must-see. What I didn't know is that there are different areas one could visit; an after-hours cocktail bar, a cafe, an upscale restaurant, and yes, actual hotel rooms. There's also a small underground concert venue, that can comfortably host 80 odd people, and a full bar. The restaurant is somewhat pricey, $20 burgers and $50 steaks, but the atmosphere from the entrance to your departure is extremely pleasant, thanks to the helpful staff. The only odd thing we experienced is the bartender punching in 20% tip before handing us the machine, but hey - there's a first for everything. I would recommend the Drake Hotel for every occasion, a quick coffee to full dinner, to anyone wanting to treat themselves or someone special with some old-school hospitality and service :)
It has taken me far too long to write this review. But with my recent anniversary I figured better late than never. After some bickering between mothers my husband and I decided to secretly elope inviting only my brother and sister n law. Being spur of the moment we had nothing planned. Thank god what we did have was Jonathan of the Drake Hotel. Jonathan made my wedding night. He pointed me in the right direction to buy a vintage wedding dress, showed my husband where to get a suit, found me an improvised shawl (it was a table runner) so we could be married on the roof top on a cold March night, set up the roof top, gave us free champagne and was there to witness our wedding and take pictures. To show up on a Friday night with nothing and to leave with so much was only made possible by him and all of the hotel staff. I think it has taken me so long to write this review because I knew words could never match the kindness we found at the hotel. Everyone went way above and beyond. If I could rate this more than 5 stars I would!! A truly unique experience that no hotel has ever come close to.
Attended a concert in The Underground. Staff was friendly and efficient. I tripped on the carpet in the entryway, and was told that it wasn't the first time that's happened.. so, perhaps it's something they should fix. But the event itself was great; small and intimate. Acoustics were decent. Bar was very well stocked with interesting beer. I didn't buy anything so I can't comment on prices. Exit was very quick and efficient.
A number of years back when I was living abroad but being treated for a serious illness locally, I checked into The Drake and stayed 3 months. I was not very ambulatory, and it became my whole world.
The staff was cool, cheerful, and always going the extra mile for me ("do you have any tangerines?" The answer would be yes because they'd quietly go shopping for me). At the bar, I'd always find myself across from or next to someone who would cheer, entertain and/or inform me (fantastic customers and staff being my built in social life); the artwork and aesthetics were a constant feast for my eyes, the coffee shop and restaurant got me fattened up and delighted, and for days when I was energetic, entertainment and music options kept my mood upbeat.
For a hotel that markets their hotel rooms/ crash pads as a good option for a post night-out shag, I hardly fit the profile of their usual customer. But it was perfect. I admire what they have created. It's inspired, lively, beautiful, full of wit, and grounded in kindness and attentive service.
For those 3 months, The Drake Hotel was my whole world; what they offered was all that was available to me. The colourful and caring staff offered impeccable service, and the Drake's entertainment options, and food allowed me to not only get well but to thrive.
I go today and the people I interact with are all new. But it's exactly the same: and what it was.. what it is, has my admiration and gets my deepest thanks.