In a city that’s not only dotted with trendy boutique stays but pits you directly against the world’s 25th-greatest hotel, distinguishing oneself is no small feat. Which only makes what Hotel X has managed to pull off that much more of an achievement.
This five-star marriage, between InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and local hospitality heavyweight Ghanem Group, is a sun-drenched sanctuary suited to all your staycation needs. One that gives you a taste of the good life, while remaining both accessible and authentically Brisbane.
Here’s what you need to know before checking in.
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Set the scene for us — where’s Hotel X located?
Hotel X is in the heart of Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, overlooking Brunswick Street, and just a stone’s throw away from Howard Smith Wharves. In other words, right where the action is.
Since opening in 2021, its neon-lit geometry has become a vibrant landmark within the city’s buzzy arts, fashion, culture and hospitality scene. A five-store, 146-room manifestation of Fortitude Valley itself, if you will.
Bonus: it’s only a 20-minute Uber ride from Brisbane Airport.
How’s the vibe?
As the maiden property of IHG’s stylishly heterogeneous ‘Vignette Collection‘ (“No two are the same”) — currently consisting of 13 distinct locations across the globe — the vibe is contemporary, yet with an underlying rock ‘n’ roll attitude.
When people talk about the “trendy part of town,” this is exactly what they have in mind.
At Hotel X, you can expect the wonderfully rebellious ethos of Fortitude Valley’s bustling nightlife with all the refined touches of something within the IHG portfolio. On the right night, it feels as if you’re at the centre of the universe. Or, at the very least, a city with a far more kinetic reputation than that of Brisbane.
From the relaxed yet attentive service to the industrial chic finishes, if you have any kind of pulse, this a great place to stay.
What are the rooms like?
For our two-night experience, we stayed in a well-appointed King One Bedroom Suite — forty square metres divvied up into a living space + kitchenette, modest balcony, bathroom, separate bedroom, and ample built-in storage.
With gilded accents, moody lighting fixtures, nightlife-centric artwork, and even an edgy spray-paint motif for the door numbers, the aesthetic is definitely “industrial chic” through and through.
The living space virtually eliminates any practical reason to leave your room. Especially given the fully-stocked fridge and minibar, which carries premixed cocktails, beer from nearby Felons Brewery, and wines; to be enjoyed either in front of the television or out on the balcony.
Consider yourself warned, room service bandits.
In the bathroom, aside from the expected hygiene kits, hairdryer, and towels, an entire range of sumptuous Karl Lagerfeld grooming products are on hand to use in and out of the powerful walk-in rain shower.
Those of you fortunate enough to be placed on the right side of the building and level will also have the distinct pleasure of rinsing off behind floor-to-ceiling windows with the world as your witness (who dares wins, but draw the blinds if you’re the self-conscious type).
On the subject of in-room privacy, my sole criticism of Hotel X involves the suite’s glass bathroom doors: textured finishes give you decent enough visual distortion, but there are certain silhouettes you don’t need to see. No matter how long you’ve known someone.
In the actual bedroom itself, you’re seductively encouraged to “lose all notion of time” on the cloud-soft mattress/under the impossibly plush sheets. The coup de grâce? A handy bedside panel that not only controls the lighting but also the curtains; plus a user-friendly tablet that allows you to do everything from ordering room service to your car from the valet parking.
This is, in my opinion, how a hotel room should always feel.
A King One Bedroom Suite starts at approximately $650 per night (depending on when you book); though other rooms are available from about $250 all the way to $900 per night.
And the amenities?
As far as amenities go, Hotel X’s are fairly basic. Though like we said before, you are situated at the very heart of Fortitude Valley — meaning whatever else you may be after that isn’t provided on-site is likely only a short walk away.
There’s your standard 24/7 gym which crams all the fitness essentials into a discrete corner of the building (just don’t expect ample floor space); as well as a versatile function & meeting room for those milestone events.
The real star of the show, however, is the 32-metre rooftop pool that offers a view of the city skyline and Brisbane River. Flanked by sun lounges, here, you’re encouraged to order a drink — perhaps even some nibbles — settle in, and let those worries melt away while you bronze up.
The hours may feel like minutes here. Bring a book you’ll pretend to read for a hot 30 seconds before acquiescing to the summer sky, plenty of sunscreen, and remember to stay hydrated.
We’re feeling peckish: tell us about the dining.
Hotel X heroes two stunning venues owned and managed by the aforementioned Ghanem Group.
On the ground floor, right by the lobby, you’ll find Bisou Bisou — a beloved French bistro that serves as the hotel’s breakfast bar by day, and an incredibly ambient dinner spot by night.
Passionately served with a side of well-considered décor, its menu flaunts such delectable dishes as Vol au Vent D’Escargot (sauteed snails with garlic, bechamel, and a Madeira jus); baked brie with cranberry granola, truffle honey, and baguette; the obligatory steak tartare; duck leg cassoulet; as well as what we’re prepared to crown the greatest steak frites we’ve had the pleasure of tucking into throughout 2024.
Perfectly seasoned, perfectly marbled, and perfectly decadent; plated atop a mound of fries that may prove challenging for even the most diehard of gourmands.
The beverages are no less impressive, ranging from the house cocktails available like the playfully fruity French X (Belvedere Vodka, rose vermouth, blackcurrant, raspberry, and pineapple) to an extensive (though not overwhelming) library of cuisine-appropriate wines to pair with your meal.
On the rooftop, adjacent to the noteworthy pool, you’ll find the airier and more scenic Iris Bar & Restaurant — a Spanish-inspired “oasis in the clouds” that can only be described as a complete feast for the senses.
Come for a sundowner with a panoramic view. Stay for the assorted tapas, Australian Bay Lobster paella, slow-roasted lamb shoulder, and cutlets of chargrilled pork.
Considering the sheer quality of both food and drink, curated by group executive chef Jake Nicholson of London Michelin-star establishments The Square and The Ledbury fame… everything is priced reasonably.
Any notes on the service?
Bang on. Much to my delight, it was pre-emptive but not smothering (I personally hate being fawned over).
Needs were quietly anticipated, and anything else required during the two-night stay — someone may or may not have forgotten to pack a phone charger — was instantly taken care of by the 24-hour front desk with a warm smile.
The same could be said about the Ghanem Group venues. Never underestimate the importance of sufficient breathing space and uninterrupted conversation at the dining table.
Whether the hands-off nature was simply due to Christmas being three days away — a time of the year when people generally clock off (in the figurative and literal sense) — is unclear, though appreciated all the same.
In short, they can be sure to expect my grinning mug again.
Hotel X Brisbane, Vignette Collection by IHG
Address: 458 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Contact: (07) 3519 1000
The author stayed as a guest of Hotel X, Brisbane (and dined as a guest of Ghanem Group).
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