Arrival/Check-In: I recently traveled with a colleague to Texas for a series of meetings in Dallas and Houston. After a productive day in Dallas, we took a short flight to Houston and checked into Hotel ZaZa. ZaZa is a Texas-based boutique property with locations in Dallas, Houston and another in Austin. As we arrived, the strings of lights lining the driveway created a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Valet staff handled our vehicle and luggage efficiently and professionally. At the registration desk, friendly hosts greeted us and guided us to our rooms. A display of Tootsie Pops at the counter was a small, thoughtful touch that guests appreciate after travel.
Guest Quarters: The standard guestrooms at ZaZa are well appointed, but the hotel also features several distinctive concept suites. These include themed rooms such as the space-inspired “Houston We Have a Problem” and a group of themed suites the hotel calls the Magnificent Seven. I was fortunate to stay in the Tycoon suite, which showcased bold Texas-inspired décor, framed photos of notable past guests, and a remarkable balcony with sweeping views of the Museum District and downtown Houston skyline. The balcony even included a standalone ceramic bathtub—a quirky, memorable feature that I did try during my stay.
Services/Amenities: Our stay at ZaZa was relatively brief, so we couldn’t sample every offering, but the property does provide a full range of amenities. We toured the recently updated spa, the pool area and the modern fitness center. A handy convenience is the Butler Pantry, a coffee bar located in the hallway by the elevator, which I used the morning we departed. Breakfast at the Monarch restaurant the following day was enjoyable; the food and service were both solid. Throughout our stay the staff remained attentive and professional.
Hotel ZaZa also provides a variety of event spaces suitable for everything from large corporate functions to small private gatherings. The hotel’s grand ballrooms and one-of-a-kind concept suites make for distinctive meeting venues, ensuring events feel unique and memorable.
The Experience: Staying in the Tycoon suite was an unexpected highlight, offering a luxurious, one-of-a-kind experience. Even without the suite upgrade, ZaZa’s personality and thoughtful touches—seen throughout the public spaces, guest rooms and even the elevator—create an energetic, memorable atmosphere. On future trips to Texas, I’ll plan to stay at ZaZa again.
GT CHECKLIST
Doorman/valet: yes
Check-in under 10 minutes: yes
Separate tub and shower: yes
Large vanity: yes
High-quality towels: yes
Powerful, unattached hair dryer: no
High-quality bed linens: yes
Large, flat-screen television: yes
Large desk with convenient outlets: yes
Large, complimentary laptop safe: yes
Complimentary in-room WiFi: yes
Complimentary bottled water: yes
Stocked minibar: yes
Ample lighting: yes
In-room coffeemaker: yes
Iron and ironing board: yes
On-site restaurant: yes
24-hour room service: yes
24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center: yes
Turn-down service: yes
Hotel ZaZa Houston
5701 Main St.
Houston, Texas 77005
tel 713 526 1991
hotelzaza.com