San Antonio’s Project Marvel may not yet be a done deal, but Alamo City’s hotels are already putting on their Sunday best for a surge in tourism. The Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk at 600 E Market St. is the latest downtown property to reveal a glow-up, in this case, a $9 million rework of its lobby, restaurants, and public spaces.
The renovation adds some midcentury swank to the lobby with honeyed woodwork, sculptural seating, and marble floors. From there, guests can click-clack to three new dining concepts: Italian eatery Moda Fare, coffee shop Spoonful Provisions, and Tejas Lounge.
Moda Fare is designed in chic neutrals.Photo courtesy of Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk
Moda Fare has been serving Italian classics since late June, when it replaced the hotel’s Bar Rojo. Gone are the glossy tiled columns and hot pink amoeba chandeliers, replaced with sweeps of marble, faux shagreen club chairs, and an of-the-moment bleached tambour bar.
The hotel’s former café, Perks Coffee, got its own boost. Now named Spoonful Provisions, the space is clad in yet more marble, midnight blue tiling, and a lush floral wallpaper. The coffee program was upgraded, too, with locally roasted beans.
Lastly, the bar — redubbed Tejas Lounge — serves Texas spirits, cocktails, and light bites. It is in full view of the lobby, so guests can peek at the handsome new checkout desks and looming chandeliers.
Tejas Lounge is open to the lobby.Photo courtesy of Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk
“We are so excited to provide our guests with these impressive updates; these renovations reflect our commitment to providing an exceptional stay for every guest who walks through our doors,” said Ryan Fender, General Manager of Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk, in a release. “The completion of this project brings comfort and convenience to our guests and celebrates traditional Texas flavors and hospitality in a luxurious setting.”
The new interiors also raise the stakes in a renovation arms race currently sweeping San Antonio’s hotels. On September 22, downtown’s Gunter Hotel debuted a $57 million revamp, following in the footsteps of Hyatt Regency River Walk, Mokara Hotel & Spa, and the newly reminted Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa.