The Saint James Hotel, an Ascend Hotel Collection Member

Set in an attractive red-brick building, the Saint James Hotel makes an elegant first impression. Every detail of the hotel’s interior seems carefully considered to create a sleek, boutique atmosphere. The lobby is decorated in rich brown tones and the walls feature large black-and-white photos of Toronto street scenes -- a style of artwork that continues throughout the hotel’s hallways and guest rooms. Self-serve stations in the lobby offer free espresso and water with cucumber or lemon. The hotel was busy during our visit, with singles and couples of all ages checking-in and out.

The Saint James Hotel is located less than a five-minute walk from vibrant Yonge-Dundas Square and the Toronto Eaton Centre. More shopping and dining options can also be found a 10-minute walk away around the Church and Wellesley intersection. The hotel is less than a quarter-mile from College subway station. Slightly further away are the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Hockey Hall of Fame, all of which can be reached in about 20 minutes by foot.

The area around the hotel is quite pleasant, with the deep yellow-and-blue flags of Ryerson University decorating the street’s lampposts and the sidewalks are busy with students. Although the hotel is mainly surrounded by the university’s various buildings, it’s also next door to a homeless shelter which can be uncomfortable for some.    

The hotel’s large, minimalist rooms are decorated in a soft palate of pale grays, light browns, and whites. Walls feature retro black-and-white photos of Toronto, branded with the hotel’s signature turquoise and gray colors. The beds’ crisp white sheets are complimented by deep purple bolster pillows and plush headboards. Mini-fridge, microwave, and Keurig coffeemaker are discretely hidden away in a closet unit. All room categories include flat-screen TVs, and either a desk or small table-and-chairs set-up. King Rooms feature a sitting area with armchairs and a sofa bed.

Bathrooms provide showers with rainfall heads, and Neutrogena bath products are presented on light wood boxes. Hairdryers are tucked in playful black bags, and white slippers are artfully tucked in the corner beside the doorway.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and the front desk offers fax and copying services, for a fee, in lieu of a business center. Parking is available at the neighboring underground lot for a daily surcharge, and pets are welcome for a fee. The hotel also offers a tidy, well-maintained guest laundry room with coin-operated washer and dryer units. Guests receive discounted rates at the nearby facilities of Hard Candy Gym and Elmwood Spa.