Your inside look at the Fairmont Royal York's 90th birthday party (PHOTOS)

Jun 12 2019, 12:33 am

History was made in Toronto today.

Beautiful history.

Since the Fairmont Royal York opened its doors on June 11, 1929, it has served as one of the city’s major icons for Torontonians and visitors alike.

As a choice place to stay for musicians, movie stars, and perhaps most notably, royalty from across the globe, the space offers an experience that is undoubtedly regal and luxe.

And its 90th birthday celebration, combined with the unveiling of a revamped lobby and restaurant scene, was no exception.

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On the morning of June 11, hundreds gathered in the hotel’s lobby to celebrate its nine-tenths of a century as one of Toronto’s greatest hospitality hubs.

The event also honoured the reveal of the hotel’s upgraded lobby and dining experiences.

Music, champagne, and excitement offered the ideal start to Tuesday for the event’s many attendees.

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Mayor John Tory shared words of excitement over the special day in front of the massive crowd, before cutting the celebratory ribbon.

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In the refreshed space, the age-old phrase synonymous with the hotel “meet me at the clock” takes on a whole new meaning. Now, the middle of the lobby boasts a statement timepiece, created by the same manufacturer as the hotel’s iconic spiral staircase.

One side of the masterpiece showcases the classic motif, while the other offers a selection of beverages. Dubbed CLOCKWORK, the welcoming space encourages continued meetings “at the clock.”

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Further jaw-dropping beauty stemmed from the tiered “cake” of flowers situated in the lobby, just in front of the massive new timepiece.

Topped with the hotel’s “RY” logo in the form of a crown, the statement decor was a captivating, spring-inspired addition to the celebration’s charm.

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No birthday party is complete without actual cake, though.

And when you’re celebrating a 90th, not just any old cake will do. John Tory furthered the celebrations by cutting a tiered, mouthwatering masterpiece alongside Edwin Frizzell, the regional vice president and general manager of the hotel.

Gilded with gold spoons and botanical designs, the cake hinted at the inspiration behind the hotel’s newly-revamped restaurant, Reign.

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Starting outside the enclosed restaurant space, you can enjoy a drink and a snack in the bar seating at the edges of the hotel’s lobby.

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And once you enter the restaurant itself, you’re transported to a different time and space.

The regal and luxe energy that pulses through the rest of the hotel is alive in Reign too, but there’s an additional grounding touch.

Inspired by royal gardens, hints of rustic leather, warm wood and greenery offer a grounding experience that brings a level of comfort into your elevated visit.

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Offering open dining spaces and private rooms as well, the new eatery will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Whether you’re seeking a quick bite before the day begins, a romantic dinner or an intimate gathering with friends, any of Reign’s varied corners will meet your needs.

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Menu offerings and details are receiving their final touches, and will be open to the public soon.

In the meantime, the rest of this fresh-yet-timeless space awaits you.

We’ll meet you at the clock.

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Fairmont Royal York

Address: 100 Front Street West
Phone: 416-368-2511

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