As the MICHELIN Guide expands its reach, it now includes a hotel selection for North America. For the first time, hotels have been spotlighted only in this region, with Texas boasting 20 establishments that have been awarded the new MICHELIN Keys. Among them, Houston is home to three hotels and Galveston to one, that have earned this recognition for their unique service and hospitality experiences.
In Houston, the Hotel Zaza in the Museum District, Hotel Zaza Memorial City, and The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston have all received One MICHELIN Key, indicating a "very special stay." Each of these hotels brings a distinctive character and high level of service. According to KHOU, for instance, Hotel Zaza Houston boasts thematic luxury suites with extravagant amenities, including whirlpool hot tubs and plasma screens. Meanwhile, in Galveston, the Carr Mansion provides an adults-only boutique bed and breakfast experience in a Greek Revival mansion dating back to 1866.
The MICHELIN Key ratings follow similar lines to the well-established MICHELIN Star ratings for restaurants, with One Key denoting a notable stay and Three Keys marking the pinnacle of luxury and service. Despite the acclaim, Houston and Dallas did not secure any Two Key ratings, a notch that signifies an "exceptional stay." However, this has not diminished the prestige of the recognized Houston establishments that promise distinctive stays. For example, the luxurious Post Oak Hotel is praised for its swank design and spa-like marble bathrooms, as per Houston Culturemap.
Notably, the Michelin Guide's Key selection is independent of prior awards or tourism stars, relying instead on undisclosed visits by their inspection team. In a wider view of Texas, Austin led with eight hotels receiving recognition, one of which, the Commodore Perry Estate, was bestowed a Two MICHELIN Key rating. Fort Worth and San Antonio followed, with notable hotels like Bowie House and Hotel Emma also securing Two Key distinctions. Offering varying experiences, from urban retreats to historical wonders, the selected establishments reflect Texas's diverse hospitality that caters to travelers seeking an exceptional stay.
"From retreats in the wildest U.S. canyons, Canadian forests, or Mexican coasts, to splendid architectural wonders; from flagship urban hotels to tiny properties nestled within former factories, campsites or isolated islands: every hotel awarded One, Two or Three Michelin Keys is a gem sculpted by talented professionals," said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide, as reported by Houston Culturemap. The Michelin Guide invites travelers to explore these recognized hotels and anticipates that the curated selections will contribute to memorable stays.
