This Boutique Hotel Is Perfect for Your Vacation (or Staycation)
Whether you’re looking for a place to rest your head in style when coming in from out of town, or planning a staycation and need a change of scenery for a night or two, a stunning boutique hotel is just the ticket. One the newest and most popular in the area is the Reikart House. From the moment you step through the door, you’ll notice their unique furniture, a huge roaring fireplace in the dining area, and a delightful mix of vintage touches with modern decor. When I went to check in at the front desk, right away I noticed the boxes of antique keys displayed in the background. Throughout the dining area and lobby there are subtle antiques like globes, travel trunks, old clocks, and photos of the Reikart family and the real Jacko, the family’s pet capuchin monkey, that now acts as the hotel logo. Frank and Dolly Reikart were known around Amherst for their bold, welcoming personalities and their musical skills. They would perform as vaudeville musicians at various events and parties around town with their adorable monkey by their side!
Every single staff member I came in contact with was helpful, accommodating, and gracious. Frank and Dolly Reikart set the bar high for how they wanted their guests treated, and I’d say that their staff is definitely carrying on their cherished tradition of providing excellent service.
When I received my room key for the King Suite, it was time to head upstairs and relax for a moment. The rooms are modern and contemporary, with a few vintage photos on the wall to carry the same feeling from the lobby. As I walked in, right away I noticed the comfortable living area furnished with chairs, a couch, TV, desk, coffee station, and even a separate half bathroom. As I made my way into the bedroom, the king bed with a huge fluffy white comforter was calling my name. A large bathroom with marble tiling, skeleton key wallpaper, and a cozy white robe with slippers completed the premium setup.
With luxury bath amenities to use while taking a hot shower, complimentary Wi-Fi (which is always a plus for a writer), and more, the room is ideal for rest and relaxation. Although they haven’t completely nixed their phone, the Reikart House has an interesting touch for asking the front desk questions. I saw an Amazon Echo next to my bed and near the coffee station in the living area that prompted, “ALEXA, ask the front desk.” It might seem like a subtle detail, but I have to say I’ve traveled a lot and done quite a few staycations and that is a very fun, modern touch that I haven’t seen yet!
After taking a much-needed moment to relax, it was time to order dinner. You can enjoy dinner downstairs in their cozy dining area or order room service. They have a number of handheld options like a turkey and avocado sandwich, the salmon BLT with maple glazed salmon, thick cut bacon, and lemon caper aioli, and veggie wraps. They have salads to choose from like traditional mixed greens and caesars along with some fancier options like farro and quinoa with pulled chicken or burrata and honey roasted root vegetables, grilled fig, pomegranate, and balsamic. And if you’re looking for something on the lighter side, the Reikart House kitchen has plenty of starters like colossal lump crab and poke, too.
If you’ve noticed the construction next to the Reikart House, they’re currently building a full restaurant set to be named Jazzboline to commemorate the instrument that Frank and Dolly Reikart actually created themselves. I can’t wait to give it a try.
After much deliberation, I ordered the burrata salad with the honey roasted root vegetables, grilled figs, pomegranate seeds, and a drizzle of acidic balsamic with a side of mac and cheese with imported cheeses, farfalle, and Panko bread crumbs to give both a taste. The burrata was plated on top of thick, flavorful pesto and a drizzle of sweet honey and served with a hearty, toasted bread to smear the creamy cheese on top. Absolutely delicious! The mac and cheese was crispy on top from the bread crumbs and had a ton of flavor. I definitely thought a side of mac and cheese would be a small cup, but they certainly don’t skimp on the portions here. It was rich and creamy – the ultimate comfort food!
After a wonderful night sleep and a steaming hot shower with their Guild + Pepper products (side note, their bath products smelled amazing and gave my hair tons of volume) I had breakfast delivered to my room. They leave a card in your room so you can check what time you’d like breakfast delivered, what beverages you like (because coffee is a must, of course), and what you’d like to eat. They make your decision easy with their daily selection of a hot breakfast or you can order a la carte different things like fruit cups, toast, bacon, salmon, and eggs, just the way you like it. During my stay, the daily breakfast included a biscuit with butter and jam, fresh fruit, berry yogurt, and a hash with ham, rice, a fried egg, and savory sauce.
I was so incredibly pleased with my stay and can’t rave about the Reikart House enough. If you’re looking for character, excellent customer service, luxurious accommodations, and delicious food, consider the Reikart House for your next getaway or staycation!
I’d like to thank the amazing staff at the Reikart House for welcoming me and making me feel so comfortable during my stay. As always, all opinions are my own.
Until next time, Jacko!
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Reikart House, Buffalo, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
5000 Main St, Amherst, NY 14226 | (716) 839-2200
reikarthouse.com
Some images courtesy of the Reikart House
