Hotel Emma
Hotel · North River District
136 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215
Highlights
Historic brewhouse hotel with trendy eatery, cocktail bar, library
Historic brewhouse hotel with trendy eatery, cocktail bar, library
"A dominant hotel in this part of the District named after Emma Koehler; the property’s history is preserved and presented throughout. Emma took over the brewery after her husband died under mysterious circumstances ("two other Emmas, with whom he was having affairs, were possibly involved") in 1914, and during Prohibition she kept the business going by shifting to near beer, ice cream, and soda and adding auto repair and dry cleaning services using the existing equipment. The design "marries existing elements, like the plaster walls of the brewery, with newer elements made to look original, like the black iron windows with hand-blown glass." Former brew tanks in the hotel bar have been renovated into booths for private tables, and a plaque tucked in the lobby documents the Koehlers and the brewery history. Guests can enjoy morning cocktails (or mocktails and iced tea) while taking in the layered historic-modern design." - Courtney E. Smith
"A boutique hotel housed in a converted brewhouse that anchors a thriving multi-use district; visitors praise its character and appreciate the surrounding shops, markets, and entertainment spaces." - Elizabeth Cantrell
"A luxe Pearl District hotel renovated from a former brewhouse, offering well‑appointed rooms steps from local dining and nightlife, an upscale on‑site restaurant, a chic bustling bar, and a library lounge reserved for guests." - Brandon Watson
"Housed in a grand former brewhouse in the Pearl District, this 146-room riverfront property mixes romantic drama with playful, modern touches and a strong culinary identity. Dining options include an all-day venue focused on open-fire cooking (serving items from Hill Country quail and biscuits to short-rib grilled cheese and Texas steaks), a market-style larder with South Texas–inspired dishes and local brews, and a lively tavern known for inventive cocktails—one signature drink combines lager, rose cordial, amontillado sherry, gin, grapefruit, and lemon and comes with a cheeky warning on the menu." - Corina Quinn
"Hotel Emma is a Two Key hotel situated in San Antonio, Texas. Known for its unique charm and history, it provides an exceptional staycation experience with amenities like spas, cultural experiences, and more, reflecting the vibrant personality of San Antonio." - The MICHELIN Guide
