Jim D.
Yelp
I am a huge fan of the Kimpton line, ever since my first visit to the Palomar in Philly.....they have a cool, hip, buzzy, unique feel. Some are getting dated, but on our trip to Asheville, I wanted to try the Arras. I was so pleased. Here are some highlights
- I know everyone stays closer to the Biltmore, but that's a huge mistake. This hotel is a lot better than those, and the central location cannot be beat.
- It's pretty new, well appointed and stylish. We picked the Mountain View suite and it was such a pleasure. Big room with a sitting area, huge windows overlooking downtown and the mountains. Lovely bed and bath
- The staff was top notch. This is a common theme at all Kimptons. Every staff member is friendly and wants to help - just ask.
- We had drinks, apps and breakfast. This is one thing about Kimptons - the food is NOT an afterthought - it is well crafted, thoughtful and tasty. No exception here. I would ensure you stay for some meal
- The 5PM happy hour is really fun and a nice touch.
As I am a fan - I would ask that the hotel figure out valet. As great as the hotel is, it's the first and last impression. If you are paying 27 bucks a night for parking, this needs to be a LOT more thoughtful. I am not sure if this is a Kimpton thing, or they contract it out, but it's gotta get better. I will say - each valet staff member was nice enough, no problem there - but when you pull up - in the event you need help (and I get it's not offered) - they don't really help. They are not bell staff, they are valet. So no help taking bags in and up. That needs to be re-thought. They will offer a luggage cart for you to help - but if you are staying at a top flight hotel, this doesn't come off very well. On the way out - no bell staff to come get bags - you need to go get a cart - and there are seemingly only two in the hotel.
It was a nice touch that the nice lady at the front desk brought one to our room when it became available - that was so sweet - but this needs to get fixed.
Overall, I would stay here over and over - it was such a treat.