Hotel Emma

The place

Just north of downtown San Antonio, Hotel Emma occupies the old Pearl's Brewhouse — a Second Empire landmark built in 1894. Roman and Williams handled the interiors of the 5-star hotel, letting the original bones show through: rustic, vintage, unhurried.

The 146 rooms and suites are split between the Brewhouse tower and the River Cellars. Rooms keep to a quiet, neutral register; the suites reveal the building's original stonework and ceilings. Frette linens on every bed, Malin + Goetz at the sink, a TV and free wifi tucked in among them.

On the roof, a pool deck with lounge beds and umbrellas — and a 1960s beer delivery truck, now a poolside bar. A fitness center waits for those who want it.

Supper, led by chef Ned Elliott, is an American bistro with a seasonal menu. Sternewirth, the rustic tavern and club room, pours drinks alongside small plates.