One of the most romantic times of the year is surrounding Valentine’s Day. While I’m a firm believer in showing love to your significant other (or family and friends) all year round, there is something fun about Valentine’s. A place that comes to mind to spend your Valentine’s Day or weekend, is at The Pearle Hotel & Spa located in Burlington, Ontario. It is Ontario’s first Autograph Collection Hotel which opened in late 2021, and it sits right at the edge of Burlington’s stunning downtown waterfront.
The hotel definitely gives off resort vibes, especially in the summer, with the view of Lake Ontario, it almost feels like you are somewhere else and not in Canada. Its stunning white oak detailing throughout the floors and the walls, and gold hardware tastefully sprinkled about, gives the interior a bright, cheerful and elegant feel. The winding staircase in the lobby, is truly one for the books, or should I say the infamous Instagram selfie.
The Pearle Hotel & Spa, is part of the Ancaster-based Pearle Hospitality, run by the Ciancone family. The name was inspired by the matriarch of the family, grandmother Pearle. Upstairs, there are stunning rooms that can be used for fancy corporate events or gorgeous weddings. With the view of the waterfront, it is definitely something to consider. The rooms are bright with windows that go up to the ceiling. The ceremony room, has beautiful plush chairs ready for your big day. If you want to do a reception afterwards, The Northshore and The Edgewater rooms will fulfill all your dreams of a beautiful space.
The hotel is home to Isabelle Restaurant & Lounge. This is the perfect spot for a romantic evening dinner. The stunning interior design blends beautifully with the rest of the hotel, and gives off beachy resort vibes. Neutral, bright white, and with stunning views of the waterfront, it is a very relaxing place to be. There is a place to eat outside in a beautifully set up patio, especially used during the summer. But during Valentine’s, indoors is where I prefer.
I simply love the food. It is mostly made of Mediterranean, Californian and Middle Eastern mixtures, further expanding on the coastal vibes of the place. The menu changes regularly throughout the year, so be sure to check it out once a season. Their Cornish hen and garlic mashed potatoes with a red wine demi, is out of this world. The dish is simple, but packed with flavour. And their mille-feuille pastry dessert was amazing! Mixed with chestnut, almond and mascarpone flavours, it was simply delightful.
The Pearle Hotel is also home to Burlington’s only Earth to Table Bread Bar. This café bistro spot, is my favourite in town. When I need a great cup of coffee, or an amazing slice of pizza, or a delectable sandwich—the Bread Bar delivers.
The Pearle Hotel also houses a world-class spa, where you can get various facials, body treatments and massages. I have yet to go, but a few of my friends have said that it is a very relaxing experience.
All in all, if I haven’t convinced you yet to check out The Pearle Hotel for Valentine’s, go check it out. Be sure to book a reservation at Isabelle’s. Enjoy!