Emberith Quintal Hotel Exterior

Our Story

Where Heritage Meets Modern Luxury

A Building with Soul

Honestly, when we first walked through these doors back in 2018, we knew this place had something special written all over it.

Built in 1892, this Queen Street West landmark started life as a textile merchant's private residence. You can still see the original crown molding in what's now our library lounge, and yeah, those exposed brick walls? They're the real deal, not some decorator's fantasy.

We spent nearly two years bringing this beauty back to life. Every floorboard creaks with history, but we've layered in the kind of comfort that makes you want to cancel your checkout. Think heated floors in century-old bathrooms, blackout curtains behind heritage windows, and wifi that actually works in every corner.

The neighborhood's changed a ton since the 1800s, but we're still holding onto that same spirit - welcoming travelers who appreciate where they're staying, not just crashing for the night.

Historic Hotel Interior
Wellness Center

The Wellness Thing Happened Naturally

We didn't set out to become a wellness retreat, to be honest. But after living in this space for a while, we noticed how the light filters through the old windows at sunrise, how quiet the courtyard gets in the evening. People started telling us they slept better here than they had in months.

So we leaned into it. Brought in a proper spa team who actually know what they're doing - not just going through the motions. Added yoga sessions in the garden when weather permits. Worked with local nutritionists to overhaul our breakfast menu.

It's not about following some wellness trend. It's just that when you're in a space this calming, surrounded by this much history and character, taking care of yourself feels like the natural thing to do. Our guests kept asking for it, and we listened.

Recognition We're Pretty Proud Of

Heritage Preservation Award

Toronto Historical Board 2020

Best Boutique Hotel

Ontario Tourism Excellence 2021

Wellness Retreat of the Year

Canadian Spa Association 2022

Green Hospitality Certified

Environmental Standards 2023

How We're Trying to Do Better

Look, we're not gonna pretend we've got it all figured out when it comes to sustainability. But we're making moves where we can, and being real about the stuff that's still a work in progress.

  • Switched to a local linen service that uses eco-friendly detergents - cuts down our water usage by about 40%
  • Our restaurant sources from farms within 100km when possible. Chef knows most of them by name at this point
  • Got rid of single-use plastics in rooms last year. Took some trial and error to find refillable amenities that guests actually liked
  • Partnered with a composting program for kitchen waste. Honestly amazed at how much we were throwing away before
  • Energy audit in 2022 led to some smart upgrades without messing with the building's character

There's more to do, for sure. But every year we're finding new ways to lighten our footprint without losing what makes this place special.

Sustainable Practices

The People Behind the Scenes

Running a heritage hotel takes a special kind of crew - folks who care as much about this place as we do.

Team Member
Margaret Chen

General Manager

Been in hospitality for 22 years, but says this is the first place that actually feels like home. She knows every guest by name after one conversation.

Team Member
James Okafor

Executive Chef

Came from fine dining but wanted to cook real food that people actually crave. His breakfast menu alone is worth the stay, no exaggeration.

Team Member
Sofia Ramirez

Wellness Director

Trained in three different countries and somehow ended up here. Guests book return visits just to get on her treatment schedule.

Why People Keep Coming Back

We've got guests who stay with us three, four times a year. Some bring their friends, some just want the same room they had last time.

It's not about fancy perks or loyalty points. It's about walking into a place where the staff remembers your coffee order, where the building has stories to tell, and where you can actually unwind without trying too hard. That's the vibe we've built here, and honestly, it's what keeps us showing up every day too.

See Our Rooms