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Hotel review: Sofitel Brisbane Central +Video

  • October 23, 2023

Sofitel Brisbane Central matches sophisticated French luxury accommodation with unfeigned style in the heart of Brisbane city, reports Harmeet Sehgal

When we think of French luxury, we think Champagne, delectable cuisine, and chic fashion. Put all of it into an accommodation brand and you’ve got an ensemble of true comfort in a lavish setting. Sofitel Brisbane Central delivers just that – a Maginifque experience.

Champagne and chocolates at Sofitel Brisbane Central
Champagne and chocolates at Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

Location

Located at the northern end of Brisbane CBD on Ann Street directly opposite Anzac Square, Sofitel Brisbane Grand stands tall behind the historical old station buildings of the Grand Central Station. The hotel is interconnected and can be accessed by escalators after exiting the station leading up to the grand lobby of the hotel.

Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Supplied

I took the Brisbane Airtrain to Central station and worked my way up to the lobby. Return fares Airtrain fares from Brisbane airport to central station cost AUD 22.00 which in all counts the most economical and fastest way to arrive at the hotel.

First Impressions

They say you only get one chance to make an impression and the the hotel makes a striking first impression.

Lobby at Sofitel Grand Central
Grand lobby at Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

The opulent vast spaces of the grand lobby decked with luxury soft furnishings sets the scene for a pleasurable stay. Tastefully selected art pieces from Mitchell Fine Art are placed throughout out the lobby including in Le Galerie, a designated art display in the lobby. I’m greeted by the Luxury Experience Manager with a genuine Bienvenue sparking an instant connection. The personable touch makes all the difference when you’re at a new hotel and it encourages guests to be more comfortable and feel at home.

Check-in counters at Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

Check-in was swift and I was heading up to the 28th floor of the tower to check into the Junior Suite.

The Junior Suite

At 63 sqm, the Junior Suite is an expansive space flush with natural lighting. With a separate lounge, bedroom and an oversized bathroom, this space is modern and luxurious.

The lounge in Junior Suite at Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

The lounge is a private area in a contemporary setting with a 62″ LED TV well suited for entertaining guests. The work desk with latest USB charge points makes it an ideal place to catch up on work with complementary high-speed wi-fi on offer in the suite.

Sofitel Mybed in the Junior Suite bedroom
Sofitel Mybed in the Junior Suite bedroom. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

The bedroom is equipped with is the most important aspect of any stay, a comfortable bed and at Sofitel Brisbane Central its the signature Sofitel Mybed – a king-size bed with a medium firm mattress that provided much therapeutic respite from a long flight. Matched with ultra-soft feather down pillows and crisp cotton linen, it made for a great night rest. The bathroom is large and compliments the size of the room.

Junior Suite bathroom at Sofitel Brisbane Central
Junior Suite bathroom at Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

Double basins with a large running mirror and a bath make it one of the biggest bathrooms in the game today. Sofitel amenities are abundantly available. The wardrobe houses an in-room safe, ironing facilities too.

Club-Millesime at the top floor of Sofitel Brisbane Central
Club-Millesime at the top floor of Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Supplied

Junior Suite can be booked with the Club Millesime package offering guests access to the Club Lounge offering drinks and canapes every evening with spectacular views to the city’s skyline.

Dining

Sofitel Brisbane Grand’s signature restaurant Suzette presents a delicious buffet breakfast every morning. With a balanced spread of traditional, healthy breakfast items, eggs to order and a fresh juice station, there is something for everyone at the breakfast table.

Champagne at Suzette, Sofitel Brisbane Central.
Champagne at Suzette, Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

Suzette serves exquisite French cuisine crafted by Executive chef Bastian Boll. Using sustainable produce from around Australia, some of the top items on the Suzette menu are Barramundi, the Chicken liver pate and Lamb neck.

Lamb Neck at Suzette. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

Suzette also serves a seafood buffet on weekends. If you’re up for a dazzling evening in a more casual setting, you can live it up at Cuvee, Sofitel Brisbane Central’s lively bar. A spot to be seen at, Cuvee matches with style statement of it’s own with a large notable marble bar and cocktails that will make you groove.

Cuvee bar at Sofitel Brisbane Central.
Cuvee bar at Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

Whether its a classic cocktail or one with a modern twist or a taste of your own, the professional bar team at Cuvee will create a concoction to suit your taste profile and make it look amazingly pretty.

Cocktails at Cuvee .Sofitel Brisbane Central
Cocktails at Cuvee. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

If you’re like me and can’t go past a delicious French Chocolate Bavarois then Chouchou is your new home for top pastry indulgence.

Pastries at Chouchou, Sofitel Brisbane Central
Pastries at Chouchou, Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

A traditional French boulangerie with a twist, Chouchou offers a cabinet of specialty sweet and savoury pastries and made-to-order celebration cakes as well as proudly serves barista-made, award-winning Bellissimo Coffee.

Passion Pear cocktail at Cuvee, Sofitel Brisbane Central.
Passion Pear cocktail at Cuvee, Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Harmeet Sehgal / NZBT

Whether you’re travelling for business, pleasure or celebrating a special event, Sofitel Brisbane Central ticks all the boxes of a luxurious service delivery in an opulent setting.

My rating: 5 Stars

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