Originally a bank and then a government building, Municipal Grand is far from stuffy and stale—in fact, vestiges of its former life serve as a fun throwback (see the actual bank vault and mail chutes).
The new boutique property sits on Savannah’s East Broughton Street and beckons guests and passersby into its light-filled, high-ceilinged lobby bar. Loungey velvet seating in shades of dusty pink and pistachio green, original terrazzo floors, blue mosaic wall tiling, and retro light fixtures give the gathering space a midcentury modern feel. With a cocktail program from the folks behind the Death & Co brand (of NYC bar fame), the Municipal Bar primarily serves creative takes on classic cocktails, such as a white negroni made with pineapple and americano and an Aperol spritz that utilizes rum and olives. It also offers brunch until 3 p.m., along with a dinner menu of oysters, a few larger entrees, and small plates including steak tartare and sourdough gnocchi. Tucked away behind a red door along the hotel’s side alley lies the Hot Eye speakeasy, an intimate, vibey alternative to the lobby bar.
The expertly mixed drinks are just one of the reimagined property’s selling points, though. Its 44 rooms and suites—once civic offices—have been transformed into warm, sunny spaces with more of that MCM aesthetic (rattan chairs, mirrored bars cut into the rich-hued wood paneling, vintage bedside lamps). And the rooftop pool is a welcome respite during the warmer months. There may be plenty of quality hotels from which to choose in this city of renowned hospitality, but Municipal Grand brings the retro fun in a fresh way.
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