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Located in one of Zurich’s first cinemas, Ruby Mimi Hotel & Bar uses its history to set it apart from other hotels. A celebration of the golden era of Hollywood, it’s clear when you first arrive this isn’t your average Swiss hotel.
Self check-in is done using touch screen computer monitors located in the lobby/24-hour bar/reception area that’s used by guests for drinking, eating and simply hanging out. “Stars are born, not made” — the hotel’s motto — blazes in neon cursive. Board games are within easy reach at Ruby Mimi Hotel & Bar. A guitar hangs from the wall, practically begging to be played. It’s the type of hotel public space I love seeing; the kind that truly gets you excited about being at a hotel.
The Art Deco building Ruby Mimi calls home was built in 1913. It was a movie theater for more than a century, with the final screening taking place in 2014. Now, the building features 208 rooms spread throughout seven floors.
Six different categories of rooms are available at Ruby Mimi Zurich. I stayed in a Lovely Room on the fourth floor with a pretty view of the river and Old Town. The room was white and airy, but with a fun movie star vibe. The white linens on the king bed were finished with a long length of red satin ribbon. Located in the room’s main living space, the bathroom sink was topped with a lighted mirror that might as well have been plucked from a movie star’s dressing room.
The shower and toilet were housed in a pair of sparkling glass boxes. While the toilet was surrounded by opaque glass, the shower box was shiny and clear. A privacy curtain is available for those who might feel prudish or be concerned about privacy. Toiletries are provided in eco-friendly, refillable bottles.
The room was designed with modern travelers in mind. USB ports were easily accessible from both sides of the bed; one bedside table had a built in wireless cell phone charger. A Marshall amp makes it a snap to plug in personal playlists, or listen to Ruby Radio. And remember that guitar hanging in the lobby?
There are a number of thoughtful touches worth noting. On the desk an old record was topped with a jar of nuts and all the makings for a gin and tonic. Hooks to hang everything from wet towels to handbags were plentiful. Soundproof windows and blackout curtains helped ensure a good night’s sleep.
However, some travelers may take issue with what’s not in the room. You won’t find a refrigerator, coffee maker, or electric tea kettle. Four of Ruby Mimi’s seven floors offer a Galley, where guests can make a complimentary cup of tea or purchase snacks from a vending machine. Ice is available from the bar.
Movie buffs will want to set aside time to catch a showing the hotel’s movie theater. Complete with comfy armchairs and red velvet curtains, a different movie graces the silver screen every night at 7 p.m. (All movies are in English.) Open to Ruby guests only, the theater seats 14 people.
A breakfast buffet is available every morning for an additional fee. With the exception of soft and hard boiled eggs, selections were cold, but tasty. Along with a variety of breads and baked goods, there was a variety of muesli, yogurts, fruits, meats and cheeses. Coffee, tea, and juice was also available.
Ruby Mimi is less than a 10-minute walk from Zurich’s Old Town. The main train station is just a five-minute walk from the hotel, and the airport’s just ten minutes by train.
Rates average $224 to $245 per night. Compare rates at Booking.com or Agoda to see if you can get a lower price.Wi-Fi included. Staff are firm about check-in being available starting at 3 p.m. Early check-in was not an option the day I arrived, however storing my bags was not an issue.
No twin beds are available. All rooms are non-smoking and are designed for one or two people; a limited number of cribs are available, so it’s best to inquire when booking. No pets. The hotel does not have a garage, but discounted parking is available nearby.
Review and photos by San Francisco Bay Area travel writer and television correspondent Dana Rebmann. Her stay was organized by Ruby Mimi Hotel & Bar, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.
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