Hotel Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro: A Trip Report

Arrival and First Impressions:

My journey to Hotel Janeiro in Leblon Beach began on an invigorating note as I was welcomed into a space that brilliantly combined modern luxury with a unique, boutique flair.

The hotel, a standout with its chic and cool architecture, immediately set the tone for a stay that promised something beyond the ordinary. As I stepped through the doors, I was immersed in a small lobby that was a masterclass in contemporary design — a harmonious blend of contemporary "Carioca" chic and eclectic artistry, creating an ambiance that was both upscale and unmistakably personal.

You can think of it as a "carioca" version of NYC's Sherry-Netherland Hotel — both manage to offer an experience that transcends the typical hotel stay, providing guests with a sense of residential comfort and exclusivity. Guests here enjoy the unique luxury of feeling like they are staying in a well-appointed home rather than a conventional hotel.

Hotel Janeiro stands out not just for its location or amenities, but also for its unique identity as an auteur hotel, conceptualized by the renowned Brazilian fashion star Oskar Metsavaht. Known for his influence in the fashion world, particularly through his brand, Osklen, Metsavaht has extended his creative vision beyond clothing to the realm of hospitality with Hotel Janeiro.

Hotel Janeiro serves as a physical embodiment of Metsavaht’s aesthetic and environmental values: every aspect from the architecture to the interior design reflects his personal style and philosophy. Metsavaht’s approach combines luxury with sustainability, infusing modern and minimalist designs with natural elements and materials, mirroring the relaxed yet sophisticated vibe of Rio’s beach culture.

Room and Accommodations:

The boutique nature of Hotel Janeiro was further reflected in my suite. Each corner of the space was thoughtfully designed to combine comfort with creativity, showcasing bespoke furnishings and local art that imbued the suite with character and charm.

The highlight of my stay was undoubtedly the room, category "Suíte frente mar," a spacious 51 m2 suite bathed in natural light with an integrated living environment, in an open plan concept.

The suite's panoramic windows offer an uninterrupted view of the sea, making every moment feel special, from waking up to the serene ocean to taking a shower with a spectacular view of the Leblon beach. The attention to detail in the suite was impeccable, from the comfortable king-size bed and lounge sofa to the yoga mat and blocks provided for a morning session. But perhaps the most enchanting feature was the swing positioned to overlook the beach, offering a breathtaking and serene spot to relax and absorb the beauty of my surroundings.

Tip: The rooms on higher floors offer exceptional vistas and privacy.

Dining Experience:

‘Cedilha,’ the hotel's signature restaurant, was a revelation in itself. It embodied the boutique spirit of Hotel Janeiro, offering a menu that was a sophisticated fusion of traditional recipes and modern gastronomy.

The interior design, intimate and stylish, along with mood lighting and soft music, contributed to an experience that was as visually appealing as it was gastronomically satisfying. The setting is a streetwalk varanda, a style that is very "Rio" in all senses.

The breakfast was a tropical buffet feast with rich treats like Croque Monsieur and Eggs Benedict to go along with Brazilian fruits and freshly baked banana breads.

My recommendation: Enjoy a unique trip through Japanese cuisine with a tasting menu at the OMAKASE experience, located on the 18th level. Here, a rotating star chef's innovative skills and the art of Japanese cooking were showcased through a gastronomic adventure that diners were encouraged to trust.

Amenities and Services:

Hotel Janeiro’s boutique ethos shone through its amenities and services. The small rooftop pool, a serene oasis above the city’s hustle, offered not just relaxation but also a stylish lounge area that echoed the hotel’s artistic sensibilities.

The staff’s approach here was also emblematic of boutique hospitality: personalized, attentive, and always with a genuine smile, making every interaction a pleasure.

Exploring Leblon:

The hotel’s location was a perfect complement to its boutique charm. Located on the prestigious Delfim Moreira Avenue, often referred to as Millionaires' Row in Rio, Leblon is a serene beach and very high-end neighborhood.

Leblon is known for its upmarket ambiance and much less crowded sands than neighboring Ipanema or Copacabana.

Tip: The proximity to Antero de Quental Metrô station makes exploring Rio’s historic and cultural gems like Centro or Flamengo effortlessly accessible.

The hotel is also surrounded by stellar dining spots and bars and is a short stroll from Shopping Leblon, catering to the whims of fashionistas and foodies alike.

Overall Experience:

My stay at Hotel Janeiro redefined my expectations of boutique hospitality in Brazil.

I found it to be a sanctuary where innovative design, personalized service, and a keen attention to detail come together to create a very personal experience.

Hotel Janeiro would be highly recommended for a variety of guests seeking unique experiences and environments:

Fashion and Design Enthusiasts: Given Oskar Metsavaht’s influence and the hotel's distinctive design, those with an appreciation for fashion, modern aesthetics,and sustainable luxury would find the hotel particularly appealing. It’s a space where design and comfort meet, making it perfect for guests who value artistic surroundings and attention to detail.

Eco-conscious Travelers: As the hotel embodies environmental sustainability and ethical practices, it would attract guests who prioritize eco-friendly accommodations and wish to support establishments that reflect their own values regarding nature conservation and sustainability.

Cultural Aficionados: Individuals interested in experiencing the vibrant culture of Rio de Janeiro, especially the upscale neighborhood of Leblon, would enjoy their stay here. The hotel’s location allows easy access to local art, cuisine, and the serene beach lifestyle, providing an immersive Brazilian experience.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In need of further inspiration? Check out Riker Pasterkiewicz’s guide, Ultimate 6 Day Rio de Janeiro Itinerary.