The Joule

"What did you notice on arrival?Set in the heart of downtown Dallas, this art-inspired hotel is filled with works from brilliant artists like Tony Tasset, Andy Warhol, Millard Sheets, and more from the moment you walk into the lobby. This may just be the most beautiful boutique hotel lobby in the city. What’s the crowd like?Art collectors, fashion buyers, and musicians. A stray attorney manages to make his way through every now and then. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.I was delighted to find that my suite had serious downtown Dallas swag. I was also impressed with how high the ceilings were and immediately made my way out to the spacious terrace that looked out at the city. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?This room had the most heavenly rainfall shower with perfect water pressure. Post-shower I threw on a robe and read the complimentary newspaper. The bed had a down comforter and pillows and the sheets were from Sferra. Swoon. What do they have for food?There are two restaurants in the hotel and both are pretty tasty. CBD Provisions is an American brasserie that serves up steaks, salads, and the very instagramable family style serving of pig head carnitas. Americano is a Southern Italian eatery that boasts one of the best patios in town. Do not skip on the Nutella doughnuts if you decide to go for brunch. On the drinks front, head downstairs to the basement Midnight Rambler for a romantic, subterranean cocktail experience, led by New York's Cuffs & Buttons bartenders Chad Solomon and Christy Pope. Latte lovers will swoon for the lobby's Weekend Coffee with beans from Victrola Coffee Roasters of Seattle. Anything stand out about other services and features?Many consider the subterranean spa here the best in town. Come an hour or so before your actual appointment to indulge in the European heat experiences. If you like to work up a sweat while on vacation, take advantage of the fitness classes offered at Vital Fitness Studio. While I am partial to the rhythm ride, my best friends swear by the flex and flow followed by poolside mimosas. Bottom line: worth it?Yes, yes, yes! This hotel gives Main Street its posh pulse and the customer service is truly on point." - Diana Oates