Hotel X

With its colourful, geometric facade, the 12-storey Hotel X cuts a distinct figure among the low-rise blocks on Brunswick Street. The five-star hotel is sandwiched between the pumping clubs on Ann Street, the swanky boutiques of James Street, and the riverside bars and restaurants at Howard Smith Wharves. Not that you’ll need to leave the hotel to have a good time.

Hotel X is home to two popular Ghanem Group venues: Iris and Bisou Bisou. Atop the hotel, beside its rooftop pool, Iris offers Spanish-style tapas, wine and cocktails – plus expansive city views. Otherwise, Bisou Bisou is dishing French fare like steak frites, escargot and duck cassoulet. The restaurant doubles as the hotel’s breakfast bar, with a line-up of loaded croissants, French toast and a decadent croque monsieur.

All 146 rooms include Google Chromecast, a cocktail-equipped mini bar and a can of Hotel XPA (In collaboration with Newstead’s Range Brewing). Suites and some king rooms come with private balconies, too.

While the industrial-style guest hallways are dimly lit, the bright lobby is a bit more playful. Think modernist fixtures and gold accents. The hotel’s unique character extends to on-site activities like music performances, a run club, and pop-ups in the lobby – including a tattoo studio and a golf simulator.