Thompson San Antonio Review
At Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, rise above the Riverwalk for elevated experiences in a cultural epicenter where unmatched skyline vistas, magnetic gathering places, refined guest rooms, and celebrated cuisine await.
This stay is part of the Thompson Millionaire Challenge and Live Luxe Travel Co.'s Thompson Tour. We're on the road to stay at all 19 Thompson Hotels by August 31st. Follow along this tour.
Thompson San Antonio is a luxury boutique hotel just steps from the Historic Riverwalk in the Northern Riverwalk neighborhood. Located just steps from the San Antonio Museum of Art, historic Alamo, and the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, this chic residential atmosphere provides sweeping city views, luxurious guest rooms, and dynamic social spaces. Guests can indulge in exceptional dining, unwind at the rooftop pool, and enjoy easy access to the city’s top attractions.
The hotel also offers a serene rooftop pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center, ensuring relaxation and wellness are at the forefront of the guest experience. With over 10,000 square feet of versatile event space, including a stylish ballroom and intimate meeting rooms, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is an ideal destination for both leisure and business travelers.
This review is based on our personal stay in June of 2024. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Thompson San Antonio or any other Thompson Property, when you book through Live Luxe Travel Co. you’ll receive complimentary Hyatt Privé benefits such as a complimentary room upgrade, if available (confirmed within 24 hours of booking), a $25 - $100 USD or USD equivalent property credit per stay (conversion rate is determined by the hotel - credit amount varies by property), daily complimentary breakfast for 2 guests per day, a welcome amenity & letter, priority for early check-in and late check-out, (subject to availability and forecasted occupancy) and priority for connecting rooms, if available (subject to forecasted occupancy)
Rooms
The rooms at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk epitomize modern luxury and refined comfort. Each of the 162 guest rooms and suites is designed with contemporary elegance, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the San Antonio skyline or the tranquil Riverwalk. The rooms are adorned with plush furnishings, rich textures, and stylish décor, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. High-end amenities include spacious marble bathrooms with rainfall showers, luxurious bath products, premium linens, and state-of-the-art technology such as flat-screen TVs, high-speed Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth sound systems. Select suites offer additional living space, private balconies, and soaking tubs, providing an elevated experience for discerning travelers. Every detail is meticulously curated to ensure a sophisticated and comfortable stay, making Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk a premier choice for luxury accommodations in the city.
During our stay at Thompson San Antonio, we had the pleasure of experiencing the luxurious Thompson Suite. Located on the 10th floor, this expansive one-bedroom suite features an elegantly designed living area with contemporary furnishings, ideal for relaxation or entertaining guests. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide breathtaking panoramic views of the San Antonio skyline and Riverwalk, flooding the space with natural light. The luxurious marble bathroom includes a deep soaking tub, a rainfall shower, and high-end bath products, creating a spa-like retreat. The suite also features a private balcony, wardrobe, and a fully stocked minibar.
The Thompson Suite features an open-living concept with tall ceilings throughout the entire suite. Upon entering the suite, you first enter the living room, which flows past a small partition wall to the bedroom, then to the bathroom and out to the private balcony.
The living room and bar area of the suite was very intimate and almost felt like you were in someone's condo in the city.
In collaboration with Sferra Linens, Thompson Hotels guarantees an unmatched sleep experience for its guests. Celebrated for their superior quality and craftsmanship, Sferra Linens enhance the comfort and luxury of Thompson Hotel rooms, allowing guests to enjoy a night of restful sleep enveloped in exquisite softness.
The full bathroom was adjacent to the bedroom in the Thompson Suite. The bathroom featured a large over-size single vanity, deep soaking tub, large walk-in shower, and separate toilet room.
Thompson Hotels feature D.S. & Durga toiletries, offering guests a premium aromatic experience. Infused with high-quality ingredients and unique fragrances, these products elevate your daily routine into a luxurious indulgence, adding a sophisticated touch to your stay.
Adjacent to the bathroom and bedroom in our Thompson Suite was a beautiful wardrobe with sitting area, large full-length mirror and closets so you could unpack and stay a while. This made for the perfect place to get ready each day.
Food & Beverage
Experience the vibrant culinary landscape of San Antonio at Thompson San Antonio, where three exceptional on-site restaurants offer a journey through the region's rich heritage and diverse flavors. At Landrace Restaurant, guests can indulge in artfully prepared dishes that celebrate local ingredients and traditions, creating a unique dining experience that reflects the essence of San Antonio's culinary roots.
For a taste of the Mediterranean, visitors can head to The Moon’s Daughters, where innovative dishes and creative drinks are served in a sophisticated setting. This sky-high rooftop restaurant features a lounge, terrace, and a stunning pool deck, providing breathtaking views of the city while diners savor their meals.
Cenote, the poolside dining option, offers delicious and refreshing fare in a stylish and casual atmosphere. Whether enjoying a light bite or a leisurely lunch by the water, Cenote provides the perfect backdrop for a delightful dining experience.
Each venue at Thompson San Antonio boasts its own unique ambiance, from the posh riverfront patio to the unapologetically stylish dining rooms, ensuring a memorable culinary adventure in every corner of the hotel.
At the heart of Thompson San Antonio lies Landrace, the hotel’s signature restaurant where the culinary artistry of James Beard Award finalist Steve McHugh shines through. Celebrating the pastoral beauty of regional Lone Star ingredients, Landrace sources from heritage growers to craft dishes that honor Texas' rich agricultural traditions.
The menu at Landrace evolves with the seasons, offering indulgent creations such as Hopi blue corn hushpuppies, woodfired lamb T-bones, and blackberry shrub pies topped with pine fluff. Guests can slip into a stylish banquette for an intimate dining experience, enjoy the ambiance of the patio overlooking the River Walk, or take a seat at the showstopping bar. Here, the semi-open kitchen provides a captivating view as chefs fire-grill an array of exquisite offerings, including wagyu beef, oysters, and Shishito peppers.
Landrace offers a dining experience that is both sophisticated and inviting, seamlessly blending the flavors of Texas with an atmosphere of refined comfort.
We dined at Landrace for breakfast and the fresh local ingredients shined through. We had a great time and the art in this restaurant is truly unique creating an inviting and comforting atmosphere.
The real star of Thompson San Antonio is The Moon’s Daughters located on the top floor of the hotel.
Ascend to the 20th floor of Thompson San Antonio and step into the enchanting world of The Moon's Daughters, an indoor-outdoor rooftop lounge that has been heralded as the #1 restaurant in San Antonio by USA Today in 2021. Here, panoramic views of San Antonio's shimmering skyline and the twinkling Texas stars unfold before you from the expansive rooftop terrace.
The menu at The Moon's Daughters is a culinary journey through Mediterranean-inspired delights. Sink your teeth into crispy veal meatballs that melt in your mouth, or craft your own mezze platter filled with vibrant flavors. Don't miss the Moon over Morocco cocktail, infused with Texas-made bourbon for a unique twist on traditional libations.
As the sun sets, live music and DJs transform the ambiance, adding a rhythmic heartbeat to the already magical atmosphere. Whether you're savoring a meal under the open sky or mingling indoors with the city lights as your backdrop, The Moon's Daughters promises an unforgettable experience where every bite and every moment is infused with allure and charm.
Step into the exclusive world of The Moon's Daughters at Thompson San Antonio for a private dinner crafted to delight the senses and ignite the palate. Our evening began with an exquisite Amuse Bouche, a tantalizing preview of the culinary journey ahead.
Next, savor the Soup course - Corn in a Cup, a symphony of flavors featuring sweet corn, lime kewpie, Tajin dust, crunchy corn nuts, and crumbled Cojita cheese, perfectly balanced to evoke the essence of summer. Here is a picture before the liquid was added bringing the soup to life.
For the Starter, indulge in Texas Skies, a picturesque dish showcasing grilled quail, a crispy fried quail egg, velvety Swiss chard puree, delicate shave Brussels slaw, and a refreshing green apple vinaigrette, all crowned with a delicate kataifi pastry for a delightful textural contrast.
The Main course brings you the robust flavors of Backyard BBQ, featuring USDA prime brisket slow-cooked to perfection, served alongside Mexican rice, hearty Borracho beans, warm flour tortillas, and a fiery habanero salsa, capturing the essence of traditional Texas barbecue.
To conclude your epicurean journey, indulge in the decadent Choco Flan. This heavenly dessert combines the richness of flan with the caramel notes of Cajeta, drizzled with Mezcal chocolate sauce and a hint of Grand Marnier, garnished with fresh strawberries to provide a sweet and satisfying finale.
Dining at The Moon's Daughters isn't just a meal; it's an experience of culinary artistry set against the backdrop of San Antonio's skyline, where each dish is thoughtfully prepared to elevate your evening to new heights of gastronomic delight.
Amenities
Discover the state-of-the-art fitness center at Thompson San Antonio, designed for both leisure and business travelers. Equipped with modern cardio machines, free weights, and resistance equipment, it offers everything needed for a comprehensive workout.
Enjoy individual entertainment screens on cardio machines and amenities like chilled towels. Whether you're maintaining your routine or trying something new, their fitness center ensures you stay active and refreshed during your stay.
Immerse yourself in leisure and relaxation at the Cenote Pool Deck, a serene oasis nestled within Thompson San Antonio. Overlooking the vibrant River Walk, this stylish retreat offers a perfect blend of sun-soaked tranquility and urban sophistication.
Unwind on comfortable loungers or plush cabanas as you soak up the Texas sun and savor refreshing cocktails from the poolside bar. Whether you're seeking a refreshing swim or simply enjoying the picturesque views, the Cenote Pool Deck provides an ideal escape from the bustling city below.
Indulge in a delectable selection of light bites and flavorful dishes inspired by local flavors, all served with the attentive hospitality that defines the Thompson experience. Whether it's a relaxing afternoon by the water or a chic evening under the stars, the Cenote Pool Deck invites you to unwind in style and luxury.
Nestled within the luxurious confines of Thompson San Antonio, the Thompson Spa offers a haven of tranquility and rejuvenation amidst the vibrant cityscape. Step into a world designed for relaxation and renewal, where every detail is crafted to enhance your well-being.
Upon entering the Thompson Spa, guests are greeted by a serene ambiance and a team of skilled therapists dedicated to personalized service. Indulge in a range of treatments inspired by both modern techniques and ancient healing traditions, each designed to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and balance.
Choose from an array of massages, facials, and body treatments tailored to meet individual needs and preferences. Whether you seek deep relaxation, revitalization, or skin renewal, our expert therapists are committed to ensuring a blissful spa experience.
The spa's tranquil environment extends beyond treatment rooms to include luxurious amenities such as steam rooms, relaxation lounges, and private changing areas. Take a moment to unwind before or after your treatment, enjoying the peaceful ambiance that envelops you.
At Thompson Spa, wellness is not just a service but a philosophy, offering a retreat where guests can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and emerge feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to embrace the world anew.
Interview with Hotel Management
During our stay, we had the pleasure of meeting with Eugene Mardell, the General Manager at Thompson San Antonio. In our discussion, we explored everything about Thompson Hotels, delved into the hotel's culture, local partnerships, what makes Thompson San Antonio and its connection to the surrounding neighborhood.
Q: How does culture live here at Thompson San Antonio?
A: At Thompson San Antonio, we spotlight the creativity of our community by highlighting rising San Antonio artists through the live music in our outlets and our market popups. We continue to have curated experiences in each outlet that are always changing and crafted by our chefs such as our L2 and Flights & Bites experiences in Landrace. During San Antonio’s Fiesta season, we celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage by decorating our outlets, creating themed cocktails and menu items, and participating in the street parades.
Q: What makes your hotel different than other hotels in San Antonio?
A: Thompson San Antonio is unique in the way that our hotel is also a gallery for artwork. We take pride in showcasing refined and elegant pieces that were handpicked by our owners and encourage our guests to explore and experience the artwork through our Self-Guided Art Tour. What I love about the Thompson Hotel brand is that each one you walk into you feel a sense of familiarity but at the same time, you are welcomed with their originality. San Antonio is very much a small town feel in a big city.
Q: What sets the Thompson Hotel brand apart from other luxury hotel brands?
A: What I love about the Thompson Hotel brand is that each one you walk into you feel a sense of familiarity but at the same time, you are welcomed with their originality. San Antonio is very much a small town feel in a big city.
Q: What makes the location of your hotel unique and what do you love about the location and neighborhood?
A: We are located in the Museum/Arts district, which is true to our brand DNA. We love that we are on the River Walk but on the quiet and less traffic area of downtown. Our hotel is walking distance from hidden gem restaurants, The Pearl, and The Pullman Market.
Q: Can you share any upcoming collaborations or partnerships that will enhance the guest experience at your hotel?
A: We are collaborating with LSPACE, the quintessential California beach lifestyle brand that believes the perfect fit is everything, out on our Cenote Pool Deck for the summer. We will have LSPACE take over one of our cabanas for the summer with branded towels, pillows, decorations, and themed cocktails. It will be Instagram-worthy for our guests while giving visibility to the fun beach lifestyle brand.
Overall Impression
Our stay at Thompson San Antonio began with private check-in at the taste-makers desk where we were greeted by the head chef preparing a delicious welcome drink. Our stay was filled with unparalleled skyline views, sophisticated accommodations, and vibrant dining options.
Our first evening in San Antonio, we took a scenic River Cruise that the hotel set up for us. The scenic river cruises take about an hour and give guests the ability to BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage).
As the boat glided smoothly along the San Antonio River, our guide began sharing captivating tales of the city's past, weaving together its rich history and modern-day charm.
Passing under picturesque bridges and alongside charming riverside cafes, we marveled at the architectural wonders that lined the riverbanks. Each building seemed to whisper stories of San Antonio's cultural tapestry, from Spanish colonial influences to contemporary architectural feats.
By the end of our cruise, we felt a deeper connection to the city. The combination of stunning views, insightful commentary, and the freedom to enjoy our drinks made this river excursion an unforgettable highlight of our visit to San Antonio. It was a perfect blend of relaxation, discovery, and camaraderie, all set against the tranquil waters that define the heart of this enchanting Texan city.
Whether indulging in a luxurious suite or exploring the rich cultural offerings nearby, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk promises an unforgettable experience, blending sophistication with the warmth of Southern hospitality.
Extra Benefits
And don’t forget, when you book Thompson San Antonio with Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive complimentary Hyatt Privé benefits like a room upgrade, food & beverage credit, and more.