REVIEW: Kimpton Da’an Taipei - this quirky boutique hotel surprised me!

Entrance of the Kimpton (Source)

Introduction to Kimpton Da’an Taipei

Kimpton Da’an Taipei marked a significant milestone for the Kimpton brand as its first venture into the Asian market when it opened in 2019. Nestled in the vibrant Da’an District, this boutique hotel offers a blend of contemporary style and traditional Taiwanese hospitality, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a chic and comfortable stay in the heart of Taipei.

Prime Location with Excellent Connectivity

Location of the Kimpton Da'an Taipei (Source: Google Maps)

The hotel's location is one of its strongest assets. Situated centrally in Taipei, Kimpton Da’an provides easy access to the city’s extensive public transportation network, including both bus routes and the MTR. Whether you’re exploring the bustling shopping streets of Xinyi, visiting cultural landmarks, or enjoying Taipei’s famed night markets, you’ll find that everything is within convenient reach.

Accommodation and Pricing

Kimpton Da’an is a boutique hotel with approximately 120 rooms, each designed to reflect a modern and hip vibe. Rooms are stylishly appointed, with a focus on comfort and functionality. The starting rate for the smallest room is around $215 per night, positioning it competitively against other luxury options like the Regent Taipei.

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - King Premium room (Source: C. Bloss)

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - King Premium room (Source: C. Bloss)

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - King Premium room (Source: C. Bloss)

The King Premium room we stayed in spans 37 square meters and features thoughtful amenities, such as a Nespresso machine, TWG tea, and international power plugs with USB-A ports by the bed. One quirky aspect of the room layout is that you enter through the bathroom—a design choice also seen in the Regent Hongkong. While the room offers a spacious shower area, it lacks a bathtub, which might be a consideration for some guests.

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - King Premium bathroom (Source: C. Bloss)

Design and Atmosphere

Kimpton Da’an’s interior design is bold and contemporary, with a mix of dark green walls, light wood accents, and funky elements, particularly in the lobby. The lobby itself might feel a bit small due to its low ceiling, but it’s a lively space where guests can enjoy the daily social hour with complimentary wine and beer. The outdoor garden area adjacent to the lobby provides a relaxing environment to unwind after a day of exploring the city.

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - Outdoor garden (Source: C. Bloss)

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - Social hour (Source: C. Bloss)

However, the design of the bathroom could use some improvement. The white tiles, while clean, give off a somewhat sterile, prison-like vibe, and the sliding door that alternates between covering the shower and the toilet is clever but not entirely practical, especially for couples or friends sharing the room.

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - King Premium bathroom with stained tiles (Source: C. Bloss)

Dining Experience

Guests at Kimpton Da’an can enjoy breakfast at “The Tavernist,” a European cuisine restaurant located on the 12th floor. The breakfast experience here is different from the usual buffet setup, offering an à la carte menu alongside a free-flow selection of granola, fruits, bread, coffee, tea, and juices. The food quality is decent, but the service can be slow during peak hours, likely due to the relatively young and limited staff.

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - Breakfast at the Tavernist (Source: C. Bloss)

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - Breakfast (Source: C. Bloss)

For those looking for a trendy spot to grab a drink, the ground floor is home to “Finch,” a stylish bar that complements the hotel’s hip ambiance.

Extra Amenities and Services

Kimpton Da’an offers a range of thoughtful amenities that enhance the guest experience. The hotel provides free water, sparkling water, tea, basic coffee, bananas, and apples in the lobby lounge area, which guests can take with them as they head out for the day. Additionally, there’s a “snack bar” time in the lobby from 2:00 to 5:00 pm, offering more complimentary treats.

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - Lobby lounge (Source: C. Bloss)

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - Lobby lounge with the Munch Bar (Source: C. Bloss)

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the 24/7 gym on the second floor, equipped with a variety of workout gear, cold water, towels, and even some apples to keep you fueled.

Kimpton Da'an Taipei - Fitness room (Source: C. Bloss)

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

One standout feature of Kimpton Da’an is its pet-friendly policy. During our stay, we saw several guests with their dogs, highlighting the hotel’s openness to four-legged friends. While this might be a bonus for pet owners, others who prefer a pet-free environment should be aware and may want to inquire if specific rooms are designated for guests with pets.

Final Thoughts

Kimpton Da’an Taipei offers a unique blend of style, comfort, and convenience, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking a boutique hotel experience in Taipei. However, the design choices and service speed might not suit everyone’s taste. Given its pricing, which often matches that of the Regent Taipei, it’s worth comparing the two if you’re deciding between them. Be sure to check out our video of the Kimpton Da’an Taipei below for a more thorough review!