There’s just something about a good hotel stay, isn’t there? It’s different for everyone, but most of us can agree that location, value and the all-around general feel of the place are key. One thing I’d not given much thought to before? The staff. And really, they can make or break an experience. That’s where the Capitol Hotel in Haymarket shines like a spotlight, and it’s pretty apropos that it does; it sits right next to the Capitol Theatre, home to some of the most spectacular shows in Sydney. Here, nothing is too much trouble, and you’ll feel like the VIP. It’s been a long time since I’ve had such lovely service in a hotel.
The Arrival
I drove tonight, even though the hotel sits five walkable minutes from Central Station. The adjacent parking ($30) couldn’t be more convenient, and the hotel subsidises it since so many guests drive in from outside of the immediate area for shows. Next door, Beauty and the Beast is playing, and the queues are full of yellow-dressed Belles.
Entry is via street level through fluted glass doors that ‘set the stage’ for the interiors. It’s a bit 1920s New York Gotham style, moody and hushed; I’m greeted and led to the lift one floor up to register. The check-in process is easy. (Introverts can do it without even speaking to a human if they’d like.) Guests receive a welcome email prior to their stay and complete basic information to receive a QR code. Just scan your phone at the kiosk for your room key and (free) wifi access. (I tried it and it worked faultlessly.) Of course, staff are always on hand to guide you through it or handle it completely for you should you wish to skip the techie bits.
The Room
The 95 rooms are arranged over four floors, and in a Heritage Listed building that honours past architecture while bringing it up to current expectations. Catwalks and accent walls speak to the modern, while a touch of theatre quirk and fun give the place an I’ll-be-back touch. My room has a golden monkey lamp and slyly asymmetrical bathroom tiles; triple-glazed floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the treed sidewalk below.
The location is fantastic, and not just because of the neighbouring Capital Theatre. Right smack in the midst of Chinatown, the food scene here is sensational, with loads of choices for late-nighters. Paddy’s Market is a stone’s throw away, and as mentioned previously, Central Station is a short stroll. Room service is available too, with an abbreviated menu for those who wish to dine in-house, and the bar desk is happy to serve you drinks with a smile. Enjoy them in the cosy lounge if you’d like.
My room is whisper quiet, bar a slight tremble from the train. It includes a small desk for working, a coffee and tea station with a mini fridge, a tablet for controlling ‘all the things’ and everything else you’d expect. The mattress is just right and the shower pressure is spot on.
Breakfast
In the morning a generous brekkie spread is laid out in the dining room ($20) that includes Noah’s organic juices, pastry, yoghurts and meats. One of my favourite whimsical touches here? The nudie bootie chairs. *Googles how to purchase* Don’t miss them. Looking for something a bit special to explore the city or to enjoy a show? The Capitol Hotel is one to put on your shortlist; we’re pretty sure you’ll love it.
The Capitol Hotel 730/742 George St, Haymarket NSW 2000 (02) 9069 5540
Ivy was a guest of The Capitol Hotel, but all opinions remain her own.
