The Edinburgh Grand

"Take us there. What do you see as you approach the hotel?This hotel-turned-bank-turned-hotel is full of exceptional details that have thankfully survived the renovation. The bank was inspired by Modernist American architecture, and the lobby is especially striking, with buttoned-up black-and-white marble floors, a playful raspberry-pink circular settee, and a stunning circular stairwell that's ripe for an impressive Instagram once you reach the top. It sets the tone for the rest of the hotel, which is equally sophisticated but without pretension. Tell us more. What's the story behind this place?It hasn't been that long since St. Andrews square was all business, little play. But thanks to a recent revitalization of restaurants, bars, and stores like Harvey Nichols, the area is becoming an Edinburgh hotspot. Arriving during latter stages of this transformation was the hotly anticipated Edinburgh Grand, which opened in June 2018 in the former Royal Bank of Scotland headquarters. The hotel part of the larger Lateral City Apartments group, which has two other properties in the city. Okay, now the real reason we're here: the rooms. What can we expect from our lodgings?Standard Capital Apartments range from studios to two-bedroom units, so everyone from solo travelers to groups of friends can find the right fit. Some studios are basic, with plain white walls and little art; others offer a bit more visually. The Malin + Goetz toiletries are nice throughout, but this is a property where upgrades really do make a difference. The deluxe rooms are gorgeous and—moving on up—the Director's Suite has a lovely mid-century living space, complete with a pea-green velvet sofa bedecked with tassels. But the three-bedroom Penthouse is the real charmer here, with a furnished rooftop terrace offering one of the best panoramic views in the city. If you can afford it, do it—it's already rumored to have hosted celebrities. Say, hypothetically, we're a bit hungry after a long day of travel and/or touristing. Are there any good options on the hotel grounds?There's an excellent outpost of the upmarket Hawksmoor steakhouse—the first in Edinburgh. Even if you're not staying here, it's worth a stop for dinner; the former marble bank hall that now houses the restaurant is a stunner, and yes, the beef is divine. But the true treat here is the Register Club, a reservation-only Champagne and cocktail joint run by the genius team behind The Bon Vivant. If you have something to celebrate, do it here—and dress to impress (there's a dress code). The Mad Men–style club room has talented mixologists, swish snacks like lobster rolls and terrine, and, as a fun added touch, a game room. How's the service?The wonderful brigade of concierge staff, all wearing retro tweed jackets, are happy to help with anything you need. You mentioned the restaurant is worth a stop even if you're not staying in the hotel—so how does the hotel fit into the surrounding area?This buzzy hotel is very much part of the scene of the transformed St. Andrews Square—and with two great places to dine and drink, it's a hotspot for well-heeled locals and tourists alike. Anything you'd change about the hotel, if you could?Somewhat confusingly, the six Nespresso pods that come with your room aren't restocked, though tea bags are. And visually striking though they may be, sliding doors on a bathroom are never, well, romantic. Also, there are no phones at the reception desk; anytime you have a question, you have to ask in person. Are there any other details we should know about before booking our stay?Nope—this place is pretty basic as far as amenities go. Got it. Well, we're optimists—we figure you wouldn't take the time to go through all this if you aren't recommending the hotel. But is it really worth it? And why?Absolutely. This hotel is in an exciting, newly vibrant area, and it's one of the most stylish, buzziest places to stay in town. It's also within walking distance or a short cab ride away from wherever you might need to go—the square is also a hub for Edinburgh's reliable, inexpensive bus lines." - Krystin Arneson