AlyssaLast week I slowed down at the Plaza Hotel and Spa, a peaceful garden oasis in the midst of Southtown. From suites with views of the downtown skyline to handcrafted drinks and sushi at Anaqua Garden Bar, here’s my suggested itinerary for a dreamy stay.
Once you check into your room, luxuriate in an early garden tub soak. Oh yes, a bath at the beginning of the stay will help put you in a mindful headspace. Pour in the complimentary bath salts and let the water overtake you.
After you’ve soaked in some good energy, walk over to Anaqua Garden Bar. The path is overflowing with vivid flowers and I was even greeted with butterflies on my way over. I was grateful to have a calm mind because I was able to fully absorb my surroundings and spend time watching the colors in the sunlight.
There are two spaces to enjoy Anaqua. One is the main restaurant, a large open space that allows the breeze to pass through, and the second is a garden bar near the pool. Naturally, I opted to sit by the water.
The fresh menu at Anaqua features small, shareable plates that infuse Latin traditions and Japanese culinary techniques. The sushi tacos sounded wonderful and the Watermelon ‘Tuna’ with cucumber, carrot and wakame caught my attention. I didn’t know what to expect, but was happily surprised! The texture and taste is so close to traditional maguro, you’d never guess it’s vegetarian. I paired these vibrant tacos with a refreshing spirit-free drink, Tepache in the Shade.
Must-Try Spirit-Free Cocktails
Anaqua, as well as Corinne, offers a a couple creative, spirit-free cocktails.
Tiger’s Blood – a light and refreshing aperitif with fresh citrus and non-alcoholic bubbles.
Tepache in the Shade – a tropical blend of fermented watermelon, pineapple, mint, and tropical citrus.
When I walked into the lobby at the beginning of my stay, Corinne, which is located right of the lobby, caught my attention because of the plants all around and the romantic aura.
After taking a seat in the dimly lit dining area, I ordered the Navajo Fry Bread. Wow. The dish was amazing! The perfectly crispy fry bread was warm on the inside and served with whipped brown butter and spiced agave. I will return for the fry bread. For my main dish I ordered the Truffled Bucatini – beurre fondue, pecorino, parmigiano reggiano, and black pepper.
One of my favorite non-alcoholic sparkling wines, Fre, was being used in the Tiger’s Blood. The perfect nightcap – sparkling wine in a champagne flute.
Plaza Hotel and Spa, Anaqua and Corinne are all located at 555 S. Alamo across from Hemisfair Park. If you awaken early and want a stroll before room service or breakfast at Corinne, walk over to CommonWealth and enjoy the lush foliage at Hemisfair.
I hope you have a dreamy stay. ☁️