613 getaway at andaz

Hubby and I just had our 8th anniversary... where does the time go?! We'd both been mad busy at work so we headed to Andaz Ottawa Byward Market to celebrate, to recharge, and to have some time just for us.

Last year we realized we had no good photos since our wedding, so we started a tradition of doing anniversary photo shoots. This year we did it again and invited Hello Lovely Studio along to help us get some wall-worthy shots.

Alrighty. I'm a HUGE fan of Andaz Ottawa. I've enjoyed their restaurant Feast + Revel many times, not to mention their rooftop bar Copper Spirits + Sights and their beautiful event spaces. But I'd never stayed as a guest til now.

From the moment hubby and I arrived we were gobsmacked by the hospitality and the attention to detail. Whether you're a local or want to feel like one, this is the place to stay.

When you check-in you'll be greeted by genuinely friendly staff, who'll get you all set up, give you tips on local hangouts, and offer you a glass of wine. Yes please! I noticed they were wearing Ottawa pins made by none other than the talented Lissa Bowie, too.

the room

We checked into our room, a stunning corner suite on the 10th floor. Thanks to its massive windows, we had views of Parliament, the Byward Market, the Ottawa River, Gatineau, and Rockcliffe. Wowza.

As for the design, think minimal and modern with nods to Canadiana: copper accents, natural wood, and a damn good mini bar stocked with Beau's and other local treats, and locally made Purple Urchin toiletries.

Other important points:

- Plugs everywhere: bless you Andaz, you know I gotta charge my phone

- Super comfy king-size bed

- Pillows that proved excellent for pillow fights (#sorrynotsorry)

Our room also had a walk-in closet (I'm still shook) and a dreamy bathroom with herringbone floors and gold faucets. I would be 100% okay with moving in.

the restaurant

Oh Feast + Revel, where should I begin? The kitchen is helmed by one of my favourite Ottawa chefs, the ever creative and immensely humble Stephen La Salle. Chef La Salle always wows me with his beautiful plating and his damn good food, and our anniversary dinner was no exception.

We demolished his house-made goat cheese and lemon ravioli...

And his sustainably-caught Arctic Char with grapefruit...

Then we plowed through a steak and burger made with truly exceptional Enright Cattle beef. Oh my.

As we stuffed our faces we got chatting with Chef and told him we were leaving for Peru in just a few days. He mentioned one of his staff hailed from Peru and had cooked at the world-renowned Central in Lima (ranked #5 in the world, check it out on Chef's Table).

His teammate came out to say hi and gave us fantastic recommendations for each of the cities we were visiting. What a small world, eh?

the rooftop

Dollars to doughnuts, there's no better view in Ottawa. And that's a bold statement for a city with loads of great views. But pop by Andaz and take the elevator all the way up. You'll arrive here:

And you'll see what I mean: Copper Spirits and Sights is not here to play.

With both a chic indoor bar and an expansive outdoor lounge (complete with fireplaces!), this is absolutely THE spot to take in the 613. Especially on a gorgeous summer night.

While we were snapping pics on the rooftop patio, this random nice dude named Dwain wanted to hop in a photo with us. I'd say he's a natural!

Note: I realize we look like an ad for sunglasses. But I swear it's that bright up there.

We bid adieu to Dwain and cozied up in an outdoor booth. We ordered two of Copper's craft cocktails and took in the night sky. If you go, try the National Capital Caesar: it's made with local Top Shelf vodka and rimmed with ketchup chips!

the morning after

In the morning we were feeling boujee (er, lazy) so we spoiled ourselves with room service.

Two things you'll notice, especially if you're a foodie:

1. The in-room menu at Andaz is actually affordable. Only $9 for avocado toast?! Praise be!

2. It's packed with local gems like Equator Coffee and Kettleman's bagels.

I highly recommend!

andaz for 20% off

Our experience at Andaz Ottawa was so magical that right away I asked for a promo code for you folks. I want you to experience this amazing slice of the 613 too!

Now through August 31, use promo code "AMY613" for 20% off your stay. The promo is based on availability so make your reso ASAP!