Toronto, CanadaThe Annex
The Annex Hotel
Minimalist plywood guesthouse
Minimalist plywood guesthouse
Digital door codes replace the front desk, giving the stay an apartment-like independence with neighborhood coffee and wine downstairs.
What it’s good at
What they say
Also in AFAR.
Painted black, the Annex Hotel is nearly concealed in an alley, but it gets you close to Bloor Street West’s lively coffee shops, restaurants, bookstores, and bars.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Independent bookstores and casual coffee shops line Bloor Street West just around the corner, with Spadina station close by.
The rooms
Stepped plywood platforms elevate the beds, and continuous wooden counters run the length of the room into open washbasins.
At the table
The cafe serves local espresso by day. At night, the wine bar pours natural wines and serves pizzas from Raff's.
How it began
These century-old brick stables previously housed artists' studios, an alternative high school, and beloved local dive The Green Room.
Toronto
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.