The glamorous soft launch of Glee Hotel

Soft lighting danced across polished marble floors, and a warm but sophisticated hum of conversation floated through the lobby.

Everything about the place whispered luxury, yet it felt inviting, like a home you had always dreamed of but never visited until now.

The fine dining began almost immediately. For the better part of the night, I found myself immersed in a culinary journey that felt both global and deeply rooted in Kenyan hospitality.

Each course, each drink and each gesture from the staff was orchestrated to perfection. Glee Hotel was not just opening its doors, it was setting a new standard for Nairobi’s luxury hospitality scene.

The soft launch, held at the hotel’s signature Peacock Restaurant, was an invitation-only affair that drew Nairobi’s elite from the media, lifestyle and influencer circles. The event was not just about showing off the property; it was about immersing guests in the Glee philosophy: creating “moments worth remembering”.

The guest list sparkled with familiar names from Kenya’s social and entertainment circles. Fashion stylist Brian Babu, media personality Maureen Waititu, beauty mogul Phoina Tosha, content creator Jay Take a Pic, TV host Claudia Naisabwa, who also served as the MC of the night, along with Cera Imani, Victor Peace and journalist Kalondu Musyimi were among those spotted.

Each of them was dressed to impress, embodying the hotel’s mantra of style, elegance and unforgettable moments.

THE #MOMENTSATGLEE EXPERIENCE

From the moment guests arrived, Glee Hotel made it clear they were in for something interactive and unique. Each guest was handed a purple card detailing a challenge: take five photos at designated “Instagram-worthy” spots around the hotel for a chance to win prizes at the end of the night.

These were not random corners; they were meticulously designed photo locations, from the well-arranged flowers to the signature Peacock that welcomes you into a restaurant named after it.

The hashtag #MomentsatGlee soon began trending, with content flooding Instagram stories and feeds in real time.

By the end of the night, a handful of winners, including Brian Babu, Kalondu Musyimi and Jay Take a Pic, were announced, each receiving a gift Voucher as part of Glee’s way of celebrating their guests.

If Glee’s aesthetic was a feast for the eyes, its culinary programme was a feast for every other sense. Executive chef Luca Pintus, whose résumé boasts Michelin-starred kitchens in France, luxury yachts across the Mediterranean and prestigious Nairobi spots like Tribe Hotel, took centre stage.

Joining him was Chef Yadav, whose Indian culinary heritage infused the night with bold, aromatic notes.

The two chefs created a seamless blend of Italian finesse and Indian spice, demonstrating their craft through live cooking segments that captivated guests. Each plate that left their stations was an artwork, beautifully plated, aromatic and bursting with flavour.

LUXURY BEYOND ACCOMMODATION

While many hotels focus solely on rooms and rates, Glee Hotel is positioning itself differently, offering experiences rather than just stays.

“We want to be a place where both travellers and Nairobi locals come for something special,” one of the event organisers shared.

The hotel is set on eight acres of landscaped grounds and offers far more than a bed for the night. Nine meeting rooms make it a hub for business and conferences, while its six distinct restaurants and bars cater to a range of tastes and moods.

For leisure seekers, there’s a heated swimming pool, a spa, recreational spaces for all ages, and a vibrant nightclub that promises to redefine Nairobi’s nightlife.

It’s not just the services and facilities that set Glee apart; the design is a statement in itself. Crafted by Kristina Zanic, a Dubai-based, internationally acclaimed interior designer, the hotel’s spaces are a balance of contemporary sophistication and unique glamour. The interiors embrace natural light, earthy tones and statement décor pieces, all while maintaining a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you’re enjoying an afternoon coffee in the Peacock Restaurant or an evening cocktail by the rooftop bar, every corner feels meticulously considered. The design isn’t just pretty, it’s intentional, creating spaces that encourage conversation, relaxation and connection.

THE PERFECT ENDING

As the evening drew to a close, guests mingled over premium cocktails, exchanging thoughts about the experience. Many agreed that the Glee Hotel had successfully delivered an unforgettable impression.

The night ended with the presentation of the #MomentsatGlee challenge winners, accompanied by a final toast to what promises to be one of Nairobi’s most exciting new hospitality ventures.

In a city already rich with luxury hotels, Glee has entered the scene with a clear vision: to offer excellent hospitality rooted in Kenyan warmth. It’s a place that understands today’s traveller wants more than just comfort; they want a story, a memory, and yes, a perfect Instagram post.

For those who crave elegance, flavour and unforgettable experiences, Glee Hotel is ready to welcome you into its story.