It’s probably been a decade since my husband and I celebrated Valentine’s Day. The contrived, pressure-filled holiday isn’t for us. Not to mention, we’re often still financially recovering from Christmas. But this year, we found a member deal through our Marriot benefits that we couldn’t turn down: a $150 night at a Michelin Key Hotel — The Dorian in Calgary.
From the moment we arrived, I was overwhelmed by the charm of this boutique hotel. Stylish, bold, and full of personality, The Dorian merges modern luxury with literary-inspired whimsy. For travellers of all kinds, it offers a memorable experience with just a few quirks to keep things interesting.
A New Calgary Icon
The Dorian Hotel opened its doors in mid-2022, quickly establishing itself as one of Calgary’s most unique boutique hotels. Inspired by the timeless elegance of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, the hotel blends classic sophistication with a contemporary twist.
As part of the Marriott Autograph Collection, The Dorian brings a distinctive, character-driven experience to Calgary’s hospitality landscape. Positioned in the heart of downtown, it offers a fresh and creative alternative to traditional luxury hotels.
In a city known for its mix of historic charm and modern energy, the Dorian sits comfortably between iconic landmarks like the Fairmont Palliser and trendier boutique stays like Hotel Arts. While the Palliser leans into classic luxury and Hotel Arts embraces a contemporary, artistic vibe, The Dorian strikes a balance — playful yet polished, refined yet eccentric.
A Chic (Yet Chilly) Entrance
Stepping into The Dorian Hotel in Calgary, you’re immediately greeted by a space that feels both sophisticated and playful. Velvet seating, artistic flourishes, and a colour palette that leans toward modern opulence make it clear: this is no ordinary hotel. However, while the aesthetic is warm and inviting, the actual temperature? It’s a bit on the brisk side. Granted, it was a day when the temperature dipped to -20°C (-4°F), so keeping those shivers outside is tough. But when the front desk staff need to wear parkas, it strips away a bit of the charm.
King room at The Dorian / Photo from hotel website
Luxury with a Dash of Drama
The guest rooms at The Dorian are a feast for the senses. Deep jewel tones, plush furnishings, and literary-themed decor create an indulgent and delightfully theatrical space. The attention to detail — custom wallpaper, elegant lighting, and high-end linens — elevates the experience to standard luxury.
Some standout features include a large wardrobe that automatically illuminates when opened — a small but thoughtful detail that adds a touch of convenience. Automatic lighting underneath the nightstands ensures you never have to stumble in the dark on your way to the bathroom. And the in-room drink selection is well curated — canned water is complimentary, while the ready-to-drink cocktails are a reasonable $12.
That said, for a building with such a grand exterior, the windows in the rooms are surprisingly modest. If you were hoping for a sweeping view of Calgary’s skyline, you might have to press your nose against the glass for the full effect. Still, what the rooms lack in panoramic vistas makes up for in undeniable charm.
Prologue at The Dorian / Photo from hotel website
Experiences Worth Savouring
One of the The Dorian’s shining features is its dining scene, offering a few distinctive culinary experiences, including Le Petit Chef. While we opted not to partake in the $129pp immersive experience, it is undoubtedly unique, combining 3D projection with a multi-course meal. This innovative concept brings storytelling to the table, with a tiny animated chef guiding guests through a “whimsical journey of flavours.” Another day, perhaps.
Food & Drink at Prologue: The Cozy Yet Chic Lobby Lounge
If you want a more relaxed dining experience, Prologue — the hotel’s lounge — delivers in spades. Designed as a sophisticated yet welcoming space, Prologue is perfect for a morning coffee, light lunch, or evening cocktail.
The menu features artisanal pastries, small plates, and expertly crafted drinks. Given the hotel’s proximity to Stephen Avenue, Prologue is an excellent jumping-off point before heading to one of the many nearby restaurants or bars.
High Tea & Elevated Dining at The Wilde
For those looking to indulge in a refined culinary experience, The Wilde — the hotel’s signature fine-dining restaurant — delivers. Located on the 27th floor, it offers breathtaking city views and a menu highlighting local and seasonal ingredients.
A particular standout is the hotel’s afternoon tea service, which combines traditional British tea culture with a modern twist. Guests can expect a selection of handcrafted pastries, delicate finger sandwiches, and an exquisite tea selection.
The Wilde leans into upscale, contemporary cuisine for dinner service, featuring dishes celebrating Alberta’s rich culinary landscape. From premium cuts of beef to artfully presented seafood, the menu showcases expertly executed flavours and textures. Comparisons to the Fairmont Palliser’s famed dining experience are inevitable, but The Wilde holds its own, offering a fresher, more contemporary take on high-end dining.
Perfectly Positioned
One of the Dorian’s biggest advantages is its prime location in the heart of downtown Calgary. Guests are just steps away from some of the city’s most notable attractions, including:
- Stephen Avenue Walk – A bustling pedestrian street lined with restaurants, shops, and historic buildings.
- Calgary Tower – A must-visit for panoramic views of the city skyline.
- The Core Shopping Centre – Perfect for a bit of retail therapy.
- Glenbow Museum (when reopened) – Showcasing Calgary’s history and cultural scene.
- Prince’s Island Park – A scenic green space along the Bow River, ideal for a stroll or picnic.
Top-notch restaurants like Major Tom, Barbarella, and Teatro are all within a 10-15 minute walking distance for those looking to explore Calgary’s dining scene beyond the hotel.
During our stay, however, we braved the frigid 2-block walk to Kabuku for sushi, where vegetarian and gluten-free menus were available. (A+ service and delicious food!)
Final Verdict
The Dorian Hotel in Calgary is an experience in itself. With its bold design, top-notch dining, and thoughtful service, it’s a standout in the city’s hotel scene. Sure, the lobby could be a touch warmer and the windows a bit grander, but those minor quirks only add to its charm.
Compared to long-established luxury spots like the Fairmont Palliser, the Dorian offers a more playful, design-forward alternative, while still maintaining a high level of sophistication.