Rooms individually decorated in zebra and leopard-print textiles
All rooms have kitchenettes and coffeemakers
Location in trendy Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood
Within three blocks of the lively Quartier Latin
Half a block from a bus stop, three from metro
Free Wi-Fi
City bike-sharing station around the corner
Popular Ethiopian restaurant downstairs
Hotel valet parking prices are competitive with local fees
No elevator, though staff assists with baggage
30-minute walk to downtown
Some have noted some room oddities, such as dim bathroom lighting
The tiny Hotel Kutuma, with its nine colorful rooms, is located in Montreal's bohemian Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood, three blocks from the popular Latin Quarter. The building itself looks bland from the outside, but, inside, the individually decorated rooms -- outfitted by the warm and welcoming Ethiopian owner in zebra- and leopard-print textiles -- have well-stocked kitchenettes with espresso machines, as well as patios, bathrobes, and whirlpool bath tubs in some. Downstairs, the hotel's popular Ethiopian restaurant, Le Nil Bleu, serves a reasonably priced breakfast to guests, and lunch and dinner daily to local devotees. Those with mobility issues should note that there's no elevator, but staff will readily carry luggage, and, indeed, regularly go out of their way to help guests with any request.
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Scene
Small boutique hotel with African-themed decor and attentive staff
While the cinderblock exterior of the hotel, somewhat in keeping with the surrounding streets, is slightly bland, the interior is a welcome surprise, offering an attractive and quirky atmosphere. The hotel’s owner is Ethiopian; the decor throughout the common areas reflects his home country in its a modern, desert-themed decor, a modern mixture of animal-print carpets and textiles on wicker arm chairs, with African art on the walls. The Ethiopian restaurant, off the lobby, decorated in keeping with the theme, attracts adventurous Montreal foodies with its excellent cuisine.
Location
On a major street between Plateau Mont-Royal and the Quartier Latin, near the metro and walking distance to major sights
Hotel Kutuma is located on the busy Rue St-Denis, which isn't the most attractive part of Montreal, but is very well located for access to the shopping, cafes, bars, and restaurants of Plateau Mont-Royal and the Quartier Latin, the hearts of both of which are just a couple blocks away. The hotel is a 30-minute walk from downtown, but the Sherbrooke metro station is a couple blocks away, as is the stop for a bus that runs along the main thoroughfare of Rue Sherbrooke; and a bus ride to the neighborhood around McGill University takes about eight minutes. Touristy Vieux-Montréal is a 25-minute walk, or 20-minute bus ride, away.
Rooms
Quirky, characterful rooms with rainfall showers, recessed lighting, rattan furniture, and animal-print textiles
Animal-print fabrics and African-inspired decor enliven quirky, carpeted rooms, which can feel dark at times. The beds are notably comfortable, and well-equipped, well-maintained kitchenettes -- which include a coffeemaker (coffee provided), a toaster, and a kettle -- are especially convenient. Exposed brick in the larger suites, rattan furniture, and wooden statuettes from East Africa add to the atmosphere. Recessed lighting on dimmers and stainless steel surfaces lend a modern feel. Some rooms have balconies and whirlpools. All rooms have hairdryers, safes, temperature control, and bathrobes.Guests have noted a few quirks, such as a tall step out of the tub and lack of natural light in bedroom.
Features
Restaurant, free Wi-Fi, laundry service, and valet parking
As an intimate city boutique hotel, Hotel Kutuma's highlight is the attractive Ethiopian restaurant on the main floor. The hotel does offer valet parking at prices that are competitive with parking lots in the area, and can provide laundry service. There's also guest access to a photocopy machine, and the option of a hearty breakfast for a fee. Wi-Fi is free.
