Bunkhouse Hotels, a small, Austin-based outfit now owned by Hyatt, is known for its thoughtful, neighborhood-defining boutique properties. Hotel Daphne, a new build in Houston Heights, was crafted to reflect the revitalization of the neighborhood while blending seamlessly into it. The public spaces, like the lobby and restaurant, Hypsi, are designed in a way that feels both global and decidedly Texan, as well as lived in—like a well-appointed living room. There’s a cozy library for game nights and mahjong gatherings down one hallway as well as a casual retail space selling the hotel group’s signature cloth robes. (Bunkhouse designs a specific pattern for each property, making them a bit of a collector’s item.) Hypsi elevates hotel dining with its all-day vibes, spritz cocktails, lamb meatballs, and expansive, sun-dappled patio and tiled courtyard. At Bar Daphne, with its own exterior entrance, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a secret drinking society—cocktails are inspired by contemporary art (try the Somewhere to Light with tequila, sotol, lemongrass, honey, yuzu) and the wine list leans organic and biodynamic. Meanwhile, the artwork throughout, including in the hallways and rooms, is original, making it feel like a collector’s home. The rooms are bathed in lush jewel tones, like dusty rose golds and forest greens. And coming soon: Phase two of the hotel’s construction will include an outdoor pool and additional rooms, set to open in 2027.
- On-Site Dining: Roasted prawns on sourdough and cavatappi with duck bolognese are reason enough to stop inside Hypsi, a breakfast-through-dinner space. Even better is the mozzarella cart, a tableside moment with handmade mozzarella, sourdough, and toppings like speck ham and candied orange or caviar. Bar Daphne provides solid bar bites, like street corndogs and salt and vinegar chips served with a caramelized onion dip and smoked trout roe.
- Neighborhood: Surrounding the property, there are signs of the Houston Heights’ resurgence as new construction goes up around protected, historical arts-and-crafts-style homes. A block away on 19th Street, you’ll find funky antique and clothing shops as well as the preserved Heights Theater.
- Amenities: Rooms are equipped with bluetooth stereos as well as minibars stocked with Texas snacks and goodies. Several rooms and suites have terraces overlooking the Hypsi patio below.
- Don’t Miss: Events like Courtyard Corral featuring vintage clothing sales and Mahjong Mondays are a fun reason to get social since they’re open to guests as well as the public.
