Roomer

The Annex

Toronto, ON, Canada
$150-250/ night

Book this if You want to feel like a cool Toronto local with a record player in your room, not a tourist in a generic glass tower.

Why People Love It

  • Keyless, contactless entry feels like unlocking your own apartment
  • In-room record players with curated vinyl (Drake, obviously)
  • Raffaella, the on-site NY-style pizzeria, is a legitimate neighborhood hotspot

Quick Take: A hipster crash pad that trades front desk service for vibes, iPads, and excellent pizza.

Reviewed by @TrvlHaus: I stayed at The Annex and it's easily my favorite spot in Toronto. The hidden entrance gives it such a cool, exclusive vibe. I spent my morning sipping coffee on the patio and just soaking in the quiet. If you love design and privacy, this is the place.

Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

Travelers love the 'home away from home' aesthetic and the super-comfortable Tempur-Pedic beds.

Reality check

The 'contactless' service is great until you have a problem and can't find a human immediately.

  • You hate waiting in check-in lines and prefer texting for service
  • You appreciate minimalist design and Aesop-style toiletries
  • You want to stay in a real neighborhood, not the financial district

Cleanliness & Maintenance

9
  • Housekeeping: On request only (eco-conscious), but thorough when asked.
  • Bathroom hygiene: Spotless wet rooms, though the glass partitions require constant wiping (which they seem to do well).
  • Maintenance: New-ish renovation means things are generally in top shape; minor scuffs on hallway walls.
  • Linens & towels: High-quality Egyptian cotton sheets and fluffy towels.
  • Odors & scents: Fresh, custom woodsy scent in common areas; no musty carpet smells.

Sleepability™

7.5SILENT
SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • Street noise on Brunswick Ave
  • Hallway sounds (no carpet to dampen footsteps)

Before you book

Good to know

  • Check-in is 100% digital; look for the email with your access code before you arrive
  • The 'gym' is a partnership with a nearby facility, not on-site
  • There is a communal fridge/pantry area since rooms have mini-fridges only

What to pack

  • Your own login for Netflix/streaming (iPad provided, but use your account)
  • Earplugs if you plan to sleep in past 9 AM on a weekday (city sounds)
  • Light luggage – remember, no elevator

Room Genie

Best picks

  • Back laneway rooms – they offer a gritty-cool view of garages/CN Tower and are 'strangely quiet'
  • Room 201 – noted for great natural light and a view of the mural across the street

Rooms to avoid

  • First-floor rooms near the lobby/bar if you're a light sleeper (music/chatter)

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

“I'd love a room facing the back laneway for the quietest sleep and the 'rear window' city views, please.”

FAQ & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

Is there really no front desk?

Correct. It's a virtual front desk. You text them for anything you need, and they are surprisingly responsive.

Where do I park?

There is no hotel parking. Use the Green P lot (Carpark 288) at 292 Brunswick Ave, practically next door.

Is breakfast included?

No, but there's a continental spread available for a surcharge ($5-20 CAD) and great coffee downstairs.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, it's pet-friendly with a $50 CAD fee per stay. They even have dog treats.

Is there a TV?

No. You get a 13-inch iPad Pro. If you want to watch a movie on a big screen, bring a laptop or projector.

Is the area safe?

Yes, The Annex is a vibrant, safe, student-heavy neighborhood. It's lively but not dangerous.

Insider Tips

  • ✨

    The 'Wine Bar' in the lobby transforms into a moody, candlelit spot at night – perfect for a nightcap without leaving the building.

  • ✨

    Ask for the 'Daniel's Room' if you want to see the space curated by Daniel Caesar (if available/still active).

  • ✨

    The Green P parking lot next door is much cheaper than finding a private garage further away.

5 things to know before you go

  • 💡The 'wet room' bathroom design looks cool but can leave the entire floor damp – watch your socks.

  • 💡The scent in the lobby is custom and very specific (leathery/woodsy) – people either love it or hate it.

  • 💡You might run into local artists or musicians in the lobby; it's a genuine industry hangout.

  • 💡The stairs are steep; seriously, don't bring a massive suitcase.

  • 💡The blackout blinds are actually effective, which is rare for boutique hotels with big windows.

Local Playbook

Map

See where The Annex is located and what's nearby.

Key amenities & services