Whether you’re meeting with friends, enjoying a meal or savoring a beverage, it is clear that attention to detail is a primary focus at Hotel Hugo’s ground restaurant, Il Principe Cucina Italiana. While here, you’re engaging with the waitstaff, hostess or bartender, you’re bound to bump into Samantha McCrimmon, who serves as the restaurant’s General Manager and Wine Director. From the time that you enter to the time you leave, she ensures that she and her staff have you in mind.
Prior to Il Principe, Samantha was the Wine Director for Plein Sud at The Smyth, a Thompson Hotel property. Her knowledge of wine from decades of being in the industry, comes from an innate passion and the ability to create and run a wine program.
Wine culture continues to grow within a number of restaurants as there is a need to facilitate more knowledge within this area. Her role at Il Principe is to bring in big names from Italy, France and California as well as interesting varietals that may be lesser known.
She highlights that Rose (whether by the glass or bottle) is outstanding and is hotter than ever, especially during the summer. The trifecta of wine, cuisine and food creates a symphony that is reflected in the menu. Guests can enjoy off the menu gems and vintages which enhances their experience.
As Samantha recovers from the holiday season, she notes that breakfast and lunch are perfect for guests and business meetings. When having dinner at Il Principe, it’s not only a romantic vibe but guests agree that newly appointed Chef Christine has created a menu that places innovative twists on classic dishes. For those who enjoy her much buzzed about homemade lasagna, there are plenty of savory dishes within the menu.
Read more from the Jan Issue