Resorts Magazine

H ouston, the unofficial capital of American energy, is a city of captivating contrasts: soaring skylines and historic neighborhoods, the avant- garde artistry of its museums and the warm rhythm of the South, the hustle of business and the authentic hospitality of Texas. In the heart of Downtown, just steps from the Theater District, Minute Maid Park, and the city’s most exclusive galleries, the Four Seasons Hotel Houston stands as a timeless sanctuary of style, interpreting luxury with both discretion and charisma. The interiors, the result of a recent renovation, blend contemporary elegance with warm, tactile nuances that pay homage to Texan roots. Fine fabrics, carefully curated artworks, and natural light create spaces that envelop guests in a sense of refined intimacy. The rooms and suites, generous in both size and detail, offer sweeping views of the city skyline or the surrounding greenery, with cutting-edge amenities seamlessly integrated for discreet comfort. The hotel’s dining scene is a statement of personality. Toro Toro, a steakhouse by Chef Richard Sandoval, offers a pan-Latin experience where premium grilled cuts meet exotic ingredients and theatrical presentations. Starters such as Smoked Guacamole and Oyster Mushroom Roll sit alongside an array of ceviches. Among the main courses are Lomo Saltado, the Brazilian-inspired Toro Toro Churrasco, and Wagyu Picanha from Rosewood Ranch. A playful highlight among the desserts is La Bomba—true to its name—a large chocolate sphere that is theatrically “exploded” tableside, revealing an assortment of gelatos hidden within. Bandista is the hotel’s “secret” speakeasy lounge, accessible only by appointment and in an undisclosed location, where a steward guides guests. Evoking the Prohibition era, entry is through a hidden door behind a bookshelf, with no signage to betray its presence. Inside, an intimate setting awaits a fortunate few, offering a small but exquisite cocktail menu built around rare spirits and unexpected pairings. Four Seasons Hotel Houston US COAST TO COAST 132 R ESORTS M AGAZINE