We Stayed at The Hoxton in Brussels and This Was Our Experience

Earlier this year, The Hoxton, a boutique hotel chain known for its global appeal, officially made its Belgian debut in Brussels. Situated within the Botanique district, the hotel finds its home within the historic Victoria Tower, adding a new and dynamic energy to the city’s hospitality scene. We were fortunate to spend a night at our capital’s latest hot spot, and this was our experience.

Upon our arrival, we were immediately captivated by the two-tiered lobby, which set the stage for a more than pleasant encounter. Besides its 198 rooms, the hotel also hosts two exceptional dining destinations: Cantina Valentina, a Peruvian-inspired restaurant, and Tope, a rooftop taqueria and cocktail bar that offers a mesmerizing view of the city. The Hoxton isn’t your typical hotel; it truly delivers a complete and immersive experience.

An Inspiration for Design Lovers

The inside of the hotel, designed by AIME Studios, brings back the style of the 1970s with bold, brutalist features. Vintage furniture from local markets and antique shops decorates the walls, which have eye-catching geometric shapes on smooth plaster. The use of lively greens, calming blues, and cheerful yellows in the color scheme, along with murals by talented local artists, adds personality to every part of the hotel. The indoor greenery pays homage to the nearby Botanic Gardens.

The lobby, showcasing retro furnishings, effortlessly transitions from a cozy daytime coffee spot to a vibrant evening cocktail bar, fostering a sense of community. On the ground floor, The Hox Gallery serves as a canvas for local artists.

The moment you step into the hotel, your attention is immediately captured by the overwhelming design inspiration that permeates every area, from the lobby and rooms to the bathrooms, restaurants, and rooftop.

The Rooms

The hotel has 198 rooms that are cleverly organized and combine old-fashioned style with natural materials. They use soft velvet fabric, pink marble, and special color choices to give each room a unique feeling. The bathrooms are also designed with art in mind, with pink sinks that stand out against dark blue tiles and spacious terrazzo floors. While the hotel buzzes with energy, the rooms provide you with the luxurious tranquility needed for a restful night’s sleep.

Culinary Experiences

Cantina Valentina takes guests on an enchanting culinary journey, with offerings spanning breakfast to dinner, all orchestrated under the expert guidance of Chef Adam Rawson. Meanwhile, Tope, the rooftop taqueria, channels the rich flavors of Mexico, presenting a delectable array of tacos and cocktails. To enhance the experience, a carefully curated DJ soundtrack sets the mood during select evenings.

We had the pleasure of dining at Cantina Valentina for breakfast and dinner, and we highly recommend both experiences. Unlike the typical hotel breakfast buffet, you can order dishes individually from the à la carte menu. In addition to the classic breakfast options like eggs and croissants, there are also some special dishes that we highly recommend trying.

What’s great is that you don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy Cantina Valentina and Tope. However, it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially for the rooftop, as it’s become a popular hot spot in Brussels.

The Neighborhood

In the heart of the city’s northern district, The Hoxton’s new neighbors offer a diverse range of experiences. You’ll find KIOSK Radio, a unique independent radio station that hosts regular open DJ sessions from its iconic wooden hut in the Royal Park. And not far away, you’ll discover the vibrant cultural hub of Brussels, Le Botanique.

For those with a passion for fashion, the trendy shopping haven of Antoine Dansaertstraat, the city’s most popular shopping destination, is just a short fifteen-minute stroll away. From there it’s also very easy to explore the ancient city center with all its tourist attractions.

For more info and bookings, you can visit The Hoxton’s website.

Enfnts Terribles