Fairmont Empress Elevates Victoria's Luxury Hotel Scene with Refreshed Dining, and an Enhanced Fairmont Gold Experience

More than a century after opening its doors on Victoria's gorgeous Inner Harbour, the iconic Fairmont Empress is still finding ways to reinvent itself — all while keeping that timeless elegance that made it one of Canada's most celebrated hotels in the first place. The latest enhancements are seriously exciting: the historic Bengal has reopened as a breakfast destination, the Fairmont Gold experience has been elevated with additional guestrooms and an impressive private lounge, and Q at the Empress just got fresh renovations that bring the hotel's culinary scene right into the now.

The Fairmont Empress has always been the centerpiece of Victoria's waterfront, and honestly it's easy to see why. It blends Edwardian architecture with contemporary comforts in a way that just works. Whether you're here for a romantic weekend, a wellness escape, or a culinary getaway, this hotel delivers one of the city's most complete luxury experiences — and it keeps getting better.

One of the property's newest additions is the return of The Bengal, a storied space that has welcomed generations of visitors in different forms throughout its history. Now, this beautifully restored room has been transformed into the hotel's dedicated breakfast venue, and guys — it's gorgeous. Exposed beams, plush seating, and tons of natural light create this setting that's sophisticated without losing its sense of history. The breakfast menu features all the morning favorites that used to be served at Q at the Empress, plus signature dishes inspired by the room's colorful past. It's such a fresh, wonderful way to start your day before heading out to explore Victoria.

If you want to really treat yourself, book one of the Fairmont Gold accommodations. It's basically a hotel within the hotel, and it's absolutely worth it. The premium experience now includes 22 additional guestrooms and suites plus access to an exclusive lounge that has honestly become one of the property's standout features. Designed by HBA San Francisco, this sophisticated space incorporates original 1908 architectural elements — exposed brick, steel beams, restored fireplaces — while introducing warm contemporary furnishings, stellar harbor views, and intimate seating areas. It's like stepping into a beautifully curated living room with the best view in town.

The refreshed Fairmont Gold guest rooms continue that refined aesthetic with calming neutral palettes, plush beds that you'll never want to leave, spacious marble bathrooms with rainfall showers, sitting areas, espresso and tea stations, and many rooms overlooking the Inner Harbour. Waking up here just hits different.

The private Fairmont Gold Lounge is where things get really good. There's an extensive complimentary breakfast with artisan breads, smoked salmon, cheeses, fresh fruit, rotating hot selections, fresh juices, and specialty coffees from self-service espresso machines. Throughout the afternoon, you can pop in for snacks, beverages, evening canapés, desserts, and an honor bar — making it the perfect spot to unwind after sightseeing. Cozy reading corners, harbor-view seating, and an outdoor terrace create this peaceful retreat above the bustle of downtown Victoria. Honestly, I spent way more time here than I planned (and I'm not mad about it).

Dining is still one of the defining experiences at the Fairmont Empress, and Q at the Empress just completed an extensive renovation of both its restaurant and bar. The new menu emphasizes regional seafood, seasonal produce, locally raised meats, and herbs harvested straight from the hotel's own gardens — how cool is that? The adjacent bar remains one of Victoria's favorite gathering places, especially for cocktails made with the hotel's signature Empress 1908 Gin, whose vibrant botanical profile has become synonymous with the property. One sip and you'll understand why.

And listen — no visit to the Fairmont Empress is complete without their legendary Afternoon Tea. This is a tradition that's welcomed royalty, celebrities, and travelers for over 100 years, and honestly it's easy to see why it's still going strong. Served in an elegant setting overlooking the harbor, the tea features delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and lemon curd, handcrafted pastries, and premium loose-leaf teas. The best part? Many of the ingredients are sourced from the hotel's own rooftop herb and lavender gardens and on-site bee hives. You can literally taste the Empress in every bite.

Beyond the dining, the hotel continues to shine as a wellness destination. The Fairmont Spa offers an extensive menu of massages, facials, and body treatments designed to complement a relaxing stay. Plus, guests get access to Victoria's largest indoor hotel pool, along with whirlpools overlooking the beautifully landscaped Fairmont gardens. After a treatment and a soak, I was basically the most relaxed version of myself.

From its beautifully restored public spaces to its expanded Fairmont Gold accommodations and an ever-evolving culinary program, the Fairmont Empress proves that historic hotels can keep growing and improving while staying true to their heritage. For anyone planning a visit to British Columbia's capital, the latest enhancements give you even more reasons to experience one of Canada's most iconic luxury destinations. Trust me — you'll want to add this to your list.