Houston Grand Hotel - River Oaks

John, our bellman, was amazing, and the valet and check-in staff were friendly and welcoming. The bar team, though, ignored us after we came in from a day of travel wearing jeans and T-shirts. All three bartenders served men in suits and women in dresses while passing us by. The shower took more than half an hour to get warm, and its head sprayed water everywhere except down. The room was larger than a standard hotel room, but otherwise much like what you'd find anywhere, so it didn't feel worth the price. I'm pretty sure a staff member took my phone. It was decent enough apart from that. Keep phones and electronics locked up, they may disappear. If you want hot showers, stay elsewhere.

The six of us had a fabulous afternoon tea at the St Regis hotels and are already looking forward to doing it together again. Our room had cozy seating, sofas and coffee tables, plus a spectacular round table. Delicate china, a selection of tasty finger sandwiches, unusual tarts and different teas made us feel special. A talented harpist set a lovely mood, and the valet service was good quality and inexpensive. The service was impeccable.

The staff were warm, attentive and professional, and the tea service was generous, with no limit on tea. Those were the best parts of this three-star experience. A friend and I went for afternoon tea earlier this year, and we're both serious tea drinkers. I've tried high tea at several upscale hotels, including other St. Regis locations, the St. Regis Atlanta and the Waldorf Astoria in Las Vegas, so I had a fair basis for comparison. Houston's St. Regis tea felt underwhelming beside them. The food was okay, not bad, but forgettable and below what I've had at comparable places. The presentation was the main area needing improvement. At this price and level, the trays and visual details could be much better. I know the St. Regis offers themed teas, especially for children, and that may be part of the focus. Still, guests looking for a refined, traditional afternoon tea could use stronger presentation and more thoughtful food. That would make this a standout. This review is only about afternoon tea, not a hotel stay.

Service felt welcoming and attentive from beginning to end, with staff who were professional and thoughtful. The updated rooms looked just right, modern, clean and very comfortable. It was a luxurious stay without feeling stuffy. I'd recommend the St. Regis Houston to anyone after an upscale stay in Houston.