The Raphael - Kansas City
The Raphael is a statement hotel in the Kansas City “Plaza” (the part of town known for upscale dining, shopping, Christmas-light viewing, and the beautiful walk down the canal).
Originally opening in 1928 as the Villa Serena, the hotel was registered with the National Historic Trust in 2009. They have collected awards for outstanding service with long-tenured staff (for example, the Ten-Year Club for 10+ years of service and the Ambassador of the Year). The hotel also features a stunning restaurant, Chaz on the Plaza which holds an excellent menu of the city’s best cuisine and cocktails (oh, and did I mention.. wine?!) Make a Reservation at The Raphael
Fun Fact: “Originally the Villa Serena had two, identical main entrances symmetrically placed at the center of the north elevation, facing the circular driveway. Each entrance was a rounded arch surrounded by exaggerated voussoir.” Inside the hotel, an 8-inch wall separated the two sides, with each side having an independent water supply and street address. Later on, the walls were removed and during the 1974 renovation, the two entrances were replaced with a large metal & glass vestibule single entrance as it appears today. Source
Overall, the Raphael has an incredible service team. They make sure everyone is taken care of and the whole hotel spotless. The place feels historic, timeless, and classic all at the same time.
Chaz has (almost weekly) wine pairing dinners and the one that Molly (a local blogger) and I attended was next-level amazing. I had never had most of the varietals on the list which was really a treat. I was able to talk to Jordan (the coordinator who dresses up to fit the theme each time they put on a dinner) all about the program and it’s quite impressive. I know first hand how many moving parts there are to put on a wine tasting and the frequency they do it is very commendable!
My experience in the Plaza.
When I got to Kansas City, I felt closer to “home” than I have felt since I left. I am indeed, closer to Nashville (my new home), but something about the city made me feel comfortable. After countless days of driving through snow storms and wild weather, settling in at The Raphael was the best thing I could’ve imagined. You are literally just right across the street from the entire Plaza.
I even got to see a few snowflakes and it was really pretty. It reminded me of Christmastime and I know that I’ll have to be back in the real snow. I loved having a gorgeous view and a large suite. I was able to leave my car with the valet for 3 straight days and that was the biggest blessing of them all. I highly recommend staying at the Raphael, especially if you love a true luxury classic hotel.
xo
Chelsea
