Kimpton Da’an: A stylish boutique hotel hidden within Taipei’s hippest district

The Rooms

Credit: IHG Hotels

1/5

During my stay, I had the privilege of staying in the The Alley King Deluxe, a roomy 37sqm space that houses a foyer, a king bed, a sitting area, an open wardrobe and a spacious bathroom. The first thing you’ll notice is the signature Kimpton green that lines the walls and the usage of light-coloured wood, both are simple but effective decorative touches that continues to give you the feeling of being in an urban sanctuary and an overall sense of calm. If you’re a solo traveller with an appreciation for modern design, this is the place for you.

As I head over to the private ensuite bathroom, I notice the same white tile motifs from the lobby. The tiles are similar to what you would see in the alleyways of Taipei and are a nod to the little cultural touches that have been implemented within the decor of the hotel. My room came with a giant shower, but you could request for a room with a bathtub if that’s your preference. I liked that there was a Japanese TOTO toilet (the warmed seats are always a lifesaver in the winter) and the thoughtful “Forgot It, We’ve Got It” in-room service meant that you could request amenities such as a hair straightener or hair ties if you forgot to bring yours.

Credit: IHG Hotels

2/5

The hotel is also pet friendly, with the rooms fitted with special flooring that makes it easy to clean if your pets get… a little too excited at the thought of being on holiday. And just a little fun fact, the Kimpton takes their animal open-door policy seriously. They accept all pets, regardless of size, weight or breed at no extra charge. If your pet fits through the food, the hotel will welcome them in, no questions asked.

In fact, some of the more unusual pets the hotel has checked in are llamas, and even a rare albino… alligator.

The Food

Credit: IHG Hotels

3/5

If you’re going to only have one hotel available at your hotel, it had better be world-class. And the Kimpton totally nailed the assignment on this one. On the 12th floor of the hotel sits The Tavernist, a contemporary restaurant helmed by James Sharman, a chef who has held notable positions in top restaurants such as NOMA and Tom Aikens. The restaurant is seriously sexy, with mood lighting and stylish furniture that makes this venue a favourite amongst the fashionable local creatives to hang out.

Sharman considers himself a fearless and wandering gourmand, and the restaurant menu acts as a photo album of his travels. Diners will be able to sample delicacies from all over the world, from Taiwan night market favourites such as the Fried Chicken with Kombu Dip to The Tavernist’s signature dish of Pork Belly & Tenderloin with Pineapple and Sugar Cane. Adjacent to the restaurant is the bar, where weary travellers can enjoy cocktail such as>Signature aperitif Bubble and Squeak Guava (Taiwanese pink guava topped with rose processo and gold leaf), to Signature Digestifs Cheeky Monkey (Laphroaig 10 year Islay Single Malt Whiskey, cantaloupe melon, sea salt, drunken red date).

Ala carte breakfast is also served daily at the restaurant and you’ll get to choose between the usual brunch suspects of a full English breakfast, eggs benedict, avocado toast etc. However I would recommend you try The Taiwanist, a typical Taiwanese breakfast of Shaobing with Spring Onion or Scrambled Eggs or Fan Tuan, that’s served as a set with dim sum and a choice between warm soy or peanut rice milk.

The Extras

Credit: IHG Hotels

4/5

Sadly, the hotel does not have a pool, but it does have a 24-hour gym. While not lavish per se, there are enough machines and equipment that will get the job done.

However, to make up for the lack of a pool, The Kimpton Da’an does additional programmes and services that guests can enjoy. One you should definitely take advantage of is Social Wine Hour at Kimpton Hotel Lobby. From 5.30 pm - 6.30 pm daily, the hotel serves complimentary drinks and snacks at the bar cart in the lobby, making it a great way to unwind and socialise with some of the other guests in the hotel.

For introverts who would like some non-verbal company, the hotel has a Plant Pals Programme, where guests can request for a plan to be delivered to their room, and have them there for the entire duration of their stay.

And if you’re looking for a stylish way to tour the neighbourhood, you can rent a vintage bike as well for free.

The Neighbourhood

Credit: Club Designer

5/5

Similar to most metropolitan cities in Asia, Taipei is no stranger to mall culture, which is why the Da’a district is such a welcome change from all of that. I love checking out independent fashion boutiques during my travels and in my short exploration around the neighbourhood, I stumbled upon hidden gems such as Club Designer, One Fifteen and Arkive Studio, all designer boutiques that housed labels such as Balenciaga and Alexander McQueen to cult labels such as Maison Margiela, Acne Studios and Rokh. If you’re looking for a coffee and a spot to people-watch, the Dunhua district is also only a 15-minute walk from here.

No. 25, Lane 27, Section 4, Ren'ai Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106