The Story Behind Why Hotels Leave a Chocolate on Your Pillow

Have you ever entered your hotel room to discover a delightful piece of chocolate, a wrapped mint, or a small cookie on your pillow? This charming practice is quite common in hotels across the United States and in various places around the world. Guests often appreciate these sweet gestures after their rooms have been serviced.

Origin of the Chocolate on the Pillow Tradition

The addition of a sweet treat, such as a chocolate or mint, on hotel pillows is especially prevalent in luxury accommodations. It’s a delightful tradition meant to enhance your vacation experience and set the stage for sweeter dreams ahead. But where did this lovely custom originate? It traces back to a Hollywood star and a hotel in St. Louis.

Cary Grant’s Influence

Cary Grant, celebrated as one of the most charming actors of his time, unintentionally established this enchanting tradition during his stay at the Mayfair Hotel (now known as the Magnolia St. Louis) in downtown St. Louis. Legend has it that Grant sought to impress a romantic interest by creating a trail of chocolates leading from his suite’s sitting room to the bedroom, ultimately arriving at the pillow, accompanied by a love letter.

“On a trip through St. Louis in the 1950s, [Grant] wanted to add a sugary dash of romance to a liaison at the local Mayfair Hotel. Although he was married to actress Betsy Drake at the time, Grant had another, ahem, friend lined up. He allegedly fashioned a trail of chocolates, leading from his penthouse suite’s sitting room into the bedroom before ending up on his pillow. Along with the chocolate was a letter. Unfortunately, the contents of his note were lost to time (though somehow I doubt it said, ‘Compliments of C. Grant: Have a restful sleep’).”

“The manager on duty caught wind of Grant’s ploy and, though discreet about its provenance, started the regular practice of leaving a nighttime chocolate on guests’ pillows.”

Although the practice of leaving chocolates on pillows fell out of favor at the Mayfair for a time, the enthusiasm of guests who valued this tradition led to its revival. Following the hotel’s rebranding to Magnolia St. Louis in August 2014, management reintroduced this delightful custom as part of their turndown service. Now, guests can enjoy exquisite chocolates from Bissinger’s, one of the most reputable chocolatiers in the United States.

Moreover, those wishing to relish in the Cary Grant experience can stay in the Cary Grant suite on the 18th floor or dine at Robies Restaurant and Lounge, named after John Robie, Grant’s character in the classic film To Catch a Thief. This hotel encapsulates a rich history and warmly embraces its legacy!

The Hollywood Legend Lives On

Thus, the chocolate on the pillow represents a romantic homage to a Hollywood icon. Expectations for a small treat — whether it be a chocolate, a mint, or even a cookie bite — have become customary in fine hotels across the United States and globally. While upscale hotels may enhance their offerings with gourmet chocolates and flowers, more modest establishments might stick to a simple mint. So, the next time you indulge in a sweet surprise during your hotel stay, remember that you have Cary Grant’s romantic endeavor to thank for this delightful practice!