Hotel Emma at Pearl on the Riverwalk

We came to San Antonio for the Mens NCAA Tournament. Although we travel often globally, we had not been to San Antonio. We found the highly rated Hotel Emma upon our planning search . . . And OH MY . . . YOU MUST GO! This hotel's character, customer service and overall experience ranks near the top of any hotel we've stayed at. Decor throughout the hotel, the smells, the staff, the comfort, the dining options, the CUSTOMER SERVICE - and all located in the very fun and engaging Pearl District of San Antonio! Do yourself a favor - put it on your list. The hotel alone is a reason to visit San Antonio! Don't miss this one!!!!

I sent this email to Hotel on March 29 and never got a response. I am writing about a recent stay at the Hotel Emma. I checked in on March 27th and checked out today, march 29th. This stay was supposed to be stress free break after a difficult work week. My stay was less than relaxing. I started out in room 307 and woke in the night with a terrible headache and my right eye tearing. The room smelled of smoke that was coming in through the vents or window. I called downstairs to ask about the smell and they sent someone with an air purifier. This led me to believe this must happen frequently. I ended up having to pack up my stuff and wait for another room on the other side of the hotel away from the outside fireplace and vents that were just outside my window. Later that afternoon I was given room 610 where I was able to take something for my head and relax a little. Shortly thereafter, the toilet in the bathroom started running non-stop. They sent up engineering and it was fixed. I did notice that the halls of the hotel also smell of smoke which leads me to believe there is a problem with the hotel's ventilation. The below picture shows the vents immediately outside the room. Given the cost of the room at the hotel, I expected a significantly better experience. For the cost of one night at the Hotel Emma, I could stay at The Plaza in Manhattan and had service and comfort that far exceeds the Hotel Emma. I think it is important for guests to know what to expect at the hotel especially given the cost and the smokey smell was not disclosed. Had I known, I would have stayed elsewhere for much less and a better experience.It was a very disappointing stay aside from the very kind people that work at the hotel.

My husband and I celebrated our 30th anniversary at Hotel Emma. She truly is the queen of hotels in San Antonio. The architecture is stunning, the staff is so warm and engaging, the rooms are pristine, and the drinks and food are unforgettable. If you like cocktails, be sure to try the Three Emma’s. There is a fascinating story behind that drink. If you love a hotel with history, mystery, and elegance this is the place.

Paul Tully was not only attentive and Charmaine. He was the best host and server. I've had in a long time. He smelled fabulous and we had to get up and hug him and smell on me. He just smelled so good. He was so sweet. He was so nice. He told us all about the history of the Emma. He couldn't have been a finer.Will definitely come back and ask for paul telly

We had friends in from Florida, and Paul was our waiter. He was fabulous! He told us the story all about Emma. Never been treated better. Thanks Paul see you next time!

Hotel Emma has honestly been the best hotel stay I've had in some time. The hotel offers a true luxury experience but without the fuss and bother that can sometimes feel performative amongst luxury brands. You feel welcomed home to a place you've never been, but will never want to leave. The condition of the hotel is immaculate. The design of marrying the original structure and charm with modern amenities through a timeless and classic design is breathtaking. I love how the hotel's history is celebrated throughout, and would definitely recommend taking the historic tour of the hotel for context - it will take your appreciation of the hotel to a whole new level! The service is beyond anticipatory. Every team member I spoke to during my time on property seemed so genuinely happy and proud to work there. Special shoutout to Mercedes at Supper for being so fabulous and attentive while I balanced enjoying a delicious lunch while trying to catch up on work emails. Bravo, best of the best, will recommend to absolutely everyone and honestly have been since I left!! Hotel Emma is truly a cut above the rest and something that must be experienced to understand.