If you know me at all then you are fully aware of my travel addiction. Not only am I a lover of beautiful places but I am a total crazy person when it comes to staying in hotels. Nothing could have solidified the fact that this was going to be one of the best years as checking into The Hotel Ivy on New Years Day. This hotel has been such a little gem. Not only is it a Luxury Collection Hotel meaning the best of the best, but they recently underwent a very massive renovation and they are here to stay Minneapolis!
Most loved feature of the hotel is the location + they are fur children friendly meaning Trixie and Babs spent the night in luxury. The hotel is soĀ easy to access. Situated right at the start of downtown withĀ multiple restaurants and bars, nightlife, activities within walking distance. But if you are like us and looking to check in and not move a muscle then you came to the right place. We kicked off our little surprise visit with margaritas at the bar shortly followed by a lazy new years day of lounging around in the room. We ordered an afternoon cheese plate and wine, and later in the evening headed downstairs for a fantastic dinner at Monello.
The setting at this restaurant is charming and inviting. I absolutely love the decor. I featured MonelloĀ in my “Jet Set to the City of Lakes – 24 hours in Minneapolis” this fall and thusĀ theĀ love affair began. The menu has something for everyone from novice to experienced, and let’s just take a minute to appreciate theĀ focaccia bread (hallelujah). Ā If you live in Minneapolis or a nearby city and have not been to Monello then shame on you. Make it a part of your must visit places in 2016. Brunch, lunch or even dinner you will be thrilled, even just a drink at the bar is worth a quick pit stop.
If you are looking for a little night-cap you don’t have to go far because Constantine downstairs offers a very eclectic atmosphere and is always crowded. Offering cool cocktails and plenty of beautiful people amongst to mix n mingle, I would say it is a little hidden hot-spot toĀ dress up, show up, and feel at home. Enjoy!
XO Tamara
I have my first reservation at Monello coming up at the end of this month! I am so excited to try it and now I’m going to have to get that bread. š