They usually say X marks the spot, but on this particular occasion, it’s all about the W. Recently opened at the end of 2023, the much-anticipated W Edinburgh hotel had many tongues wagging due to its unique architecture. Crafted from a winding steel ribbon-like design, likened to the spirals of paper, it is said to reference the many printing presses that occupied the area in the past. Centrally located, it proudly sits amongst the historic buildings of Edinburgh, adding a contemporary twist to the city skyline. I was recently invited along to stay and check out what this newly opened hotel had to offer.
After a wonderful champagne arrival I was guided to my ‘Fantastic Suite’ located on the 9th Floor of the main building. Due to the shape and layout of the buildings, each room is unique in style and size, exuding their very own characteristics. This is something I personally like as if you decide to return, each experience can be slightly different. Albeit all rooms exude a contemporary luxury style, it is worth to note that not all rooms are located within the main building itself, so if this is something you desire it is best to mention this when booking. On entering my suite, I was instantly impressed with its spacious design. A lounge area with contemporary seating was a great place to relax, watch TV and enjoy the many drinks on offer at the unique ‘rock bar’ that takes precedence in the centre of the room.
The bedroom area is again impressive in size with a comfortable king bed that looks as if it’s floating above the ground. Small touches such as mood lighting, wireless mobile phone charging, and a large flat-screen TV all add to the room’s unique design and comfort. A specific design feature which I particularly loved was how the bedroom and bathroom area were split in two using a row of dimly lit mirrors. The bathroom area boasted twin sinks, a separate shower and toilet, and a range of beautiful products to use.
A separate free-standing bath sat in the bedroom space and was a great place to lay back, relax, and enjoy the views. The views are, of course, the hotel’s best feature, and with this particular room, access to a large balcony provided the perfect backdrop with partial views of Old Town and Carlton Hill. Of course, in true Edinburgh fashion, the weather was not particularly nice on my visit, but the expansive windows allows you to still take in those views whilst being in the comfort and warmth of the room.
After enjoying the delights of my suite, I, of course, couldn’t wait to see what other facilities the W Edinburgh had to offer. Due to the hotel’s circular design, there is a range of eating and drinking places that are perfectly situated to all have a unique view of the city. Aptly named the W Lounge, this curved area with contemporary seating is located on the 11th floor and offers an array of all-day dining, drinks, and cocktails. I especially loved the cocktails, which all took inspiration from mythical creatures. It felt great sipping on some pre-dinner drinks whilst proudly looking out towards Edinburgh’s Old Town, Arthur’s Seat, Carlton Hill, and Edinburgh Castle.
Sushisamba, located on the 10th floor, is the hotel’s restaurant celebrating a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine. Don’t worry if you are not a big fan of sushi as there is so much more that this restaurant has to offer. After perusing the menu, we opted for a selection of items from the small plates, samba rolls, and raw section. Crispy Lobster Taquitos were mouth-watering, with sweet succulent lobster, creamy avocado with an acidic twist of pickled shallots. Continuing the lobster vibe, the Samba Edinburgh Roll (exclusive to the Edinburgh Sushisamba) was so colourful and flavoursome with the addition of mango-pineapple salsa. I also highly recommend the Tiradito (a Peruvian take on sashimi) with its zesty yuzu soy sauce combined with decadent black truffle.
The highlight for me was the Highland Wagyu Ishiyaki, 120g of sliced wagyu meat, with a range of dipping sauces and pickled plums. Delivered to your table with a hot sizzling stone, it allowed you to cook the meat to your liking and enjoy the range of tangy accompaniments. I must admit the customer service was second to none in Sushisamba, in particular the sommelier with his wealth of knowledge and the waiting staff who were extremely friendly and always on hand helping us to choose the best items from the menu.
Adjacent to this is Joao’s Place, a secret apartment speakeasy that serves premium spirits and curated cocktails. Due to Sushisamba’s exquisite dining and drinking options I perhaps over indulged and didn’t visit Joao’s on this occasion but I made sure I popped by the next day to capture its vibe. I was extremely impressed with this intimate space with its vibrant playful colours, comfortable seating and outdoor space looking over Carlton Hill and across the water to Fife. I also loved the addition of a record player, where you can pick your own records and request them to be played throughout the night. With opening hours of 5pm – 3am I can imagine that this will be a popular place for residents and visitors. I’m looking forward to returning to try out their range of cocktails which I have been told are exceptional.
Next day since I had already had the opportunity to dine in Sushisamba, I opted to have breakfast in my suite. Instead of being delivered on the usual dining trolley, the food arrived in W Edinburgh cool bags and backpacks which I thought was an unusual but refreshingly different way of receiving room service. With a selection of hot and cold choices, we opted for Belgium waffles, toast with avocado, a selection of pastries and fruit salad. The food was delicious and we loved being able to enjoy these tasty morsels in the comfort of our own room.
From the moment you walk through its doors, the W Edinburgh hotel graces all of its guests with a truly memorable experience. It somehow manages to provide a perfect balance of true Scottish hospitality with a laid back charm and a slice of luxury, a combination of which I very much enjoy. Their friendly and approachable staff are a real credit to the hotel, never overbearing but always there when you need them. These attributes along with the hotel’s first-class facilities and central location make it the perfect hotel stay for everyone. I’m very much looking forward to my return to explore Joao’s place further and the hotels decadent spa.
Blu Blazer Guy Rating:
Location – 5/5
Customer Service – 4/5
Accommodation – 4/5
Cleanliness – 5/5
Food and Drink – 4/5
PR Stay (all views are my own).
BLU BLAZER GUY 