Eden House

I would absolutely recommend Eden House to a friend. It’s a little far uptown, but if you’re like me and enjoy staying a little «out of the way» and exploring new neighbourhoods, it’s great. It’s in a colourful, predominately Spanish-​speaking neighbourhood. I will say, the area seemed a little sketchy alone late at night. If you’re a girl travelling solo and staying out late, you’d be wise to take a cab; as it is a few blocks from the subway.
There isn’t a clearly-​marked sign stating that it’s a hostel, and I had a hard time finding someone to check me in. Eventually a girl showed me around and took me to my room; taking my name so the manager could check me in later. Later (at about 11 o’clock that night), the manager’s wife (I think) came in and told me that my reservation had been cancelled due to a problem with the booking website I used. I was aware of the problem and had made arrangements to pay them directly before I came, so I was a little panicky when they said I had no reservation. Everything got worked out, though, and the manager apologised profusely. Basically, this hostel doesn’t get high marks on organisation.
I loved the layout! On each floor there’s a large dorm area (8-​bed, I think) with its own kitchen, a bathroom, and a smaller dorm (4-​bed, where I stayed). There was no AC, but the breeze from the window made it comfortable. The lockers were really small — you’d be hard-​pressed to fit anything bigger than a small purse inside. They use air mattresses to eliminate the possibility for bed bugs; and, from what I saw, the management team was very diligent with blowing them up them as needed. The bathroom was really nice and clean. I didn’t spend much time in the common area, but it was very comfortable and well-​furnished. Oh! There was free wi-​fi in my room! And power outlets galore. YAY.
I really liked staying here. The minor disorganisation was just a very small blip during an otherwise enjoyable stay.