A Grand New Hotel in Ever-Grander Houston
Hotel Alessandra
Houston, Texas
Modern Classic, $$ ($199)
Houston, having already had a big hair moment, a lunar landing moment, and an air conditioning moment (it's the world capital), is currently having a culture moment (we picked Texas as a top place to go in 2019 for everything new and awesome in Houston) that includes lodging newcomer Hotel Alessandra, a 223-room stunner all about height and volume in downtown's GreenStreet development. For the look and feel of the place, local design firm Rottet Studio drummed up a story about a European sophisticate who falls hard for an oil tycoon during Houston's freewheeling days. What does that mood board look like? Think: Brazilian marble, centuries-old, French stained glass doors, bronze handrails, and a high, vaulted ceiling that pulls guests from the street level entrance up a showy staircase to the second-floor lobby. A metallic color scheme and laminated glass panels give the place a warm, old-fashioned glow. Cozy love seats and chairs upholstered in mohair invite canoodling in the corner after a few coupes at classy in-house cocktail spot, Bardot. Be it a vacation, staycation, wedding, or business-meets-pleasure mashup, this looks like the kind of place where you can have your moment, too.
Book It
Rates change seasonally and start at $199. Click here for reservations. Or contact the Fathom Concierge and we can book your trip for you.
At a Glance
The Vibe: Old-World class meets New-World money.
Standout Detail: The ribcage architecture at restaurant Lucienne.
This Place Is Perfect For: Travelers gathering for a reunion or girls getaway; those doing business with a side of romance.
Rooms: Accommodations begin on the fifth floor — 223 rooms, including five suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and city views. Twenty-first-century modern decor (streamlined green velvet sofa, oak headboard, brass fixtures) feels fresh and urban. Fun perks include freestanding bathtubs, outdoor terraces, and in-room Nespresso machines.
On Site: Full-service spa, swimming pool and deck, bike sharing fitness center, private dining, events space, and complimentary Maserati car service (based on availability).
Food + Drink: The cocktail lounge is Bardot (you may want to swill a few and flirt). Lucienne, the fine dining restaurant, has an incredible retro-futuristic look — kind of like a Viennese cafe interpreted by the Jetsons — and serves carefully plated Continental cuisine with inspiration from the Mediterranean.
What to Do Nearby
Got business in Houston? You practically rub elbows with House of Blues (in the same complex). The hotel is also steps from the convention center and Discovery Green, Minute Maid Park (where you can catch a ball game Houston Astros), and Toyota Center (Houston Rockets). While you're in town, you absolutely must visit the Rothko Chapel and The Menil Collection, particularly the new drawing wing. Mix your drinks and your new finds with oldies at The Hay Merchant, The Original Okra Charity Saloon, and Public Services Wine & Whiskey.
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