Houston’s newest destination hotel opens on December 26 bringing a slew of dining options catering to convenience, quality and a range of diverse culinary and entertainment preferences. Five of the six outlets will be ready for service on opening day with the final location, Hugo Ortega’s forthcoming Xochi, still in the works.
Thanks to intentional (and ingenious) architectural design, each of the five lobby level concepts are visible from either end of the extensive lobby so that guests can keep an eye on happenings and make visit selections accordingly. Other brilliant moves include inviting seating areas that encourage guests to leave their rooms and mingle, and outlets on virtually every table and chair making both formal meetings and quick charging effortless. Attention to detail takes on new heights with intricate ceilings and exquisite lighting adding both allure and grandeur to the already luxurious setting.
Spanish for cave, this lobby lounge and wine bar features a state-of-the-art tap system where guests can choose from 12 wines and order Mediterranean tapas and small plates like crudité or gourmet cheese and crackers. Hidden behind the scenes are two beers on tap and a full bar, though the intention is to indulge in wine here and head to Biggio’s for the remaining libations.
Casual meets comfort in this quick-service café offering coffee, tea, breakfast breads and sandwiches plus midday and evening options. Find Starbucks brand beverages, along with locally sourced baked goods in the open and airy space great for quick bites on the go.
The bars at night are big and bright and this one takes top honors as the largest sports bar in Texas. Floor-to-ceiling TVs anchor the two-story concept with three distinct sections highlighted by Biggio memorabilia and reclaimed wood bleachers. Find a cozy space inspired by a lavish living room with leather chairs and couches, a 26-tap bar lined with baseball bats, and cinema seating filled with recliners for viewing two massive screens – each chair features outlets for charging phones and laptops so guests can stay connected while keeping current on sports. Upstairs, find a bar area at eye level with the top TV screens plus additional tables and chairs for balcony views of the rest of the space.
Across from Biggio’s is the hotel’s main dining restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner serving a casual menu of coastal and Cajun dishes. An open kitchen gives guests a glimpse at the action while multiple seating options range from booths to tables.
Though this space is still under wraps and won’t open for a while yet, expect Hugo Ortega’s signature Mexican fare complete with patio views of Discovery Green.