In just a short time since opening in 2023, this five-star stunner in Dallas’ Harwood District has racked up one Michelin Key and a Michelin recommendation for its onsite restaurant, Stillwell’s. It’s easy to see why. Featuring 134 rooms, Hôtel Swexan blends Japanese architecture with European interior design and a touch of Texas flair (ahem, peep the neon cowboy sign at Stillwell’s). With all the buzz surrounding the hotel, I decided to check in for a two-night hosted stay to experience the property myself.
The room
I checked into my Panoramic Corner King Room, which offered sweeping views of Downtown Dallas. The space has a modern, minimalist aesthetic, and the bed—outfitted in Frette sheets—provided a front row seat to Dallas sunsets thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows.
Hôtel Swexan is an anomaly in the hotel space; while many hotels skimp on bathrooms, this one goes all in. In fact, the bathroom was the most stunning part of the room. Lined with marble tiling, it featured a walk-in shower, Le Labo toiletries and a bathtub with a ceiling faucet (yes, water really does fall from the ceiling), creating a relaxing oasis from a day in the city.
Bathrooms throughout the property are equally striking, each featuring different wallpaper, light fixtures, sinks and tiling—some elegant, others cheeky.
For those with deeper pockets and celebrating a special occasion (think wedding or honeymoon), the hotel offers eight uniquely designed suites. One of the most notable, the Harwood Suite, was designed by architect Kengo Kuma and contains a samurai from owners Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller to mirror the essence of Japanese culture.
One thing to note: Because the hotel is located downtown, there is some noise from passing cars. Having grown up in Chicago, I didn’t mind it, but light sleepers may want to bring some earplugs.
Dining at Hôtel Swexan
Thanks to its central location, you’re just steps—or a short drive—away from some of Dallas’ best restaurants. But if you’re planning to stay put, the hotel has five on-site dining options.
For dinner, I checked out Stillwell’s, a steakhouse known for its high-end beef program and shareable dishes. The evening started with a bread service featuring a pillowy vertical loaf and salted butter. Appetizers were next: East Coast oysters in a mignonette sauce and melt-in-your-mouth beef dumplings, submerged in a truffle gravy.
Since the restaurant is known for its steaks, I ordered my favorite cut, tomahawk, which struck the perfect balance between tenderness and flavor. I paired it with whiskey soy-glazed Brussel sprouts, creamed corn and a loaded baked potato.
My sweet tooth wouldn’t let me leave without sampling the dessert menu, so I ordered three: a chocolate ganache cake, a layered peanut butter bar and a strawberry mousse sponge cake with toasted meringue that’s flambéed tableside. Of course, I didn’t eat them alone—my sister joined me—and the verdict was unanimous: Don’t skip dessert. Share one, two or even three with friends and family.
I left so stuffed that I ended up skipping Babou’s + The Library, a hidden entertainment spot that makes for the perfect nightcap.
The following morning, I headed to Léonie, the rooftop restaurant, for a late breakfast. Set in a sunlit room with hanging foliage and French-style bistro tables, Léonie serves up stunning views of the Dallas skyline alongside international fare. For brunch, I ordered avocado toast, ricotta pancakes topped with apricot preserves and poached eggs atop braised short rib, stewed peppers and cheddar hashbrowns.
Léonie is exclusive to hotel guests but opens to the public for afternoon tea service every weekend.
Other amenities worth noting
Albeit my time in Dallas was short, I managed to check out the gym, and as an avid gymgoer, I was impressed. The facility boasts a large outdoor patio for stretching and classes, wet and dry saunas, a plethora of cardio and weight lifting equipment and—for those brave enough—a cold plunge for muscle relief.
My final thoughts
Hôtel Swexan is where architecture, wellness and culinary excellence converge. From its central location and uniquely designed bathrooms to its well-equipped gym, panoramic views of Downtown Dallas and exceptional dining options, this hotel delivers a luxurious and thoughtfully curated experience. Whether you’re in town for a quick getaway or a special celebration, it’s a place that captures Texas charm and international influences right in the heart of Dallas.