ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: Located in the heart of Fishtown, Philadelphia, Hôtel Anna & Bel is within easy walking distance of the neighborhood’s best shops, restaurants and bars. Upon arrival I was fortunate to find street parking right across from the property; the front desk also provided directions to the hotel’s off-site parking lot, about an eight-minute walk away.
The lobby feels modern, warm and refined. A grand wooden staircase takes center stage against a white, black and gray tiled floor, creating a welcoming, residential atmosphere. I arrived slightly before the 3 p.m. check-in time and the staff kindly held my luggage while I relaxed by the pool. After ordering a cocktail via poolside service, I was escorted to my room where my bags were waiting.
GUEST QUARTERS: The hotel offers about fifty individually styled rooms. My One-Bedroom King Suite, on the corner of the second floor, overlooked Belgrade Street and the hotel’s private courtyard with its in-ground pool and cocktail lounge, Caletta.
© Emily Gladu
The suite opens to a spacious living room, with French doors that lead to a private balcony. The bedroom features a king bed and a charming breakfast nook beside a full-sized refrigerator and a well-appointed bar cart. A smart TV is wall-mounted for easy access to streaming services. Between lounging in the complimentary, locally made Printfresh robe and enjoying the quiet of the private balcony, the room felt like an inviting retreat.
© Emily Gladu
SERVICES/AMENITIES: To fully appreciate Hôtel Anna & Bel, plan on more than one night. I spent an afternoon enjoying a cocktail and floating in the heated pool, and on a future stay I plan to use the infrared sauna and the yoga and meditation patio.
Dining options are distinct and thoughtfully executed. Bastia is a café by day and an elevated restaurant by night, featuring seasonal dishes inspired by Corsica and Sardinia. Caletta, the cocktail lounge beside the pool, serves small Italian plates alongside creative drinks. I sampled a plate of sheep’s milk ricotta with sweet blueberries, chili brown butter and grilled focaccia while watching the sunset on Caletta’s outdoor patio — a simple, delicious moment with an excellent view.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
- The bathrooms are stocked with full-sized Le Labo products; as a thoughtful gesture, a front desk staff member surprised me with a complimentary gift set that included hand lotion, face mist and lip balm.
- Each floor features an Essentials Closet with items you might have forgotten: extra towels, toiletries, K-cups and a filtered water station that I appreciated.
- Hôtel Anna & Bel offers seasonal and year-round guest experiences. It’s worth checking the hotel’s offerings to see what aligns with your stay.
HÔTEL ANNA & BEL
1401 E. Susquehanna Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19125
tel 267 682 8253