Inn at El Gaucho

Residing above the renowned El Gaucho steakhouse in the Belltown district of Seattle, The Inn at El Gaucho is the Emerald City's newest luxury urban inn. With its "retro-swank" fifties décor and personal pampering, the inn is an oasis of luxurious indulgence.

Whether it's your first or twenty-first stay, you'll be treated to the personal attention that comes with being a guest of Paul Mackay, a legend in Seattle hospitality. Just minutes away from the Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, the inn puts you in the center of all the city has to offer, from shopping and museums, to theaters and cultural attractions, plus the many sports venues.

Retro-Swank Fifties Meets Upscale Conveniences

The 18 junior luxury suites are decorated with handmade furnishings, in the same "retro-swank" fifties style synonymous with the El Gaucho name. You'll find Anichini linens, bathrobes, slippers and pajamas plus L'Occitane and Philip B products for hair and body.

While the inn is reminiscent of an earlier era where uncompromising service reigned, is it not lacking in modern amenities. With plasma screen TV with full high-definition digital cable, Bose Wave music system and high speed Internet (both wired and wireless), your room offers you the ultimate in conveniences.

The pillow top queen beds are dressed in fine Anichini linens made with 100% Egyptian cotton and covered with Pacific Coast Feather Co. featherbeds and comforters. No extravagance is spared in the bath as well with Anichini 100% Egyptian oversized cotton towels and bathtubs or showers fitted with The Rain System showerhead.

Some suites offer views over the Atrium, or the city lights and bustling energy of Belltown. Others have sweeping views of Elliott Bay, Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. And of course, all offer room service from the inn's namesake restaurant, the incomparable El Gaucho.

Uncompromising Service

The inn's 24-hour concierge service is available to assist you with procuring tickets, town car service, and other arrangements to help you fully enjoy your stay. Mardi and I were especially pleased to see the inn partner with premier merchants including gym and health club services at the Seattle Athletic Club and spa services.

The inn's main lobby has a welcoming fireplace which offers private seating for quiet conversations. Our favorite spot, however, is the intimate piano bar at El Gaucho Restaurant. What could be more romantic than making a request for your special song and have it dedicated to the one you love?

While the dining room offers excellent service in a hip atmosphere, I highly recommend you request the in-room dining "bedside" preparation provided by El Gaucho steakhouse. Available until midnight (until 10 p.m. on Sunday), it is an affordable indulgence far from the ordinary.

Surprise Her with a Romance Package

When the occasion calls for something just a tad bit more special, such as an anniversary or birthday, the Inn at El Gaucho offers a Romance Package that turns the day into a heartfelt event. In addition to your junior suite for the night, you also receive fresh flowers, Billecart Salmon champagne served in your room, chocolate truffles, plus a $100 dining credit to El Gaucho with priority reservations and seating. It's an experience that you'll both remember forever.

Belltown is a very lively place to explore at night-great restaurants and clubs. We found the best way to enjoy it all without the risks involved in driving home later is to book a room at El Gaucho and spend the night in the well-appointed rooms.