"How did it strike you on arrival?Sequestered deep within the trees of the Turtle Creek neighborhood, this glamorous hotel immediately throws off the most sophisticated, old Hollywood glam type of vibes. Am I pulling up to someone's personal mansion, a historic castle, or a socialite's secret dinner club? What’s the crowd like?Glamorous go-getters, a posh pool posse, and fine dining fanatics. How was check in? Check-in was seamless thanks to the attentive valet and bellman. As a mom, it is always nice to have an extra set of hands. I was unable to secure an early check-in, however, the front desk attendant was as pleasant as she could be when I made my request last minute. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.I booked a deluxe patio room on the first floor of the property. My particular room had a king bed, desk, and a sitting area in addition to the patio which is where I spent the majority of my time. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?After spending an afternoon by the pool, I was delighted to wrap up in the cozy waffle robe. I enjoyed the line of D.S. & Durga, Cowboy Grass bath products that were made exclusively for Rosewood Hotels. I also appreciated the fact that there was a full length mirror and vanity with cosmetic lights. What do they have to eat and drink?My room had its own Nespresso machine which was crucial in the early a.m. when I was not quite ready to go down to the restaurant for brunch but needed caffeine ASAP. The Mansion Bar is as sexy as they come and features live music (Fridays, and Saturdays), fantastic cocktails, and delicious snacks—order the Mansion G&T featuring Junipero Gin, house-made tonic, Kaffir lime leaf, and grapefruit zest. Truffle fries are also a very popular choice amongst regulars who know their way around the bar menu. The Mansion Restaurant is an iconic Dallas dining destination and its romantic atmosphere is hard to beat. This is not your typical hotel restaurant and anyone who is spending a night or two at the hotel would be doing themselves a disservice to pass on a meal here. The tortilla soup is legendary and has stayed on the menu regardless of chef changes and concept shifts. The restaurant's terrace is a lovely option for drinks, lunch, and brunch when the weather is cooperative. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?Food and beverage director Sebastien Archambault for creating a menu that highlights the beautiful bounty of local farmers. Any other services and features we should have asked about?It is walking distance from the Katy Trail which offers a great outdoor option for running, walking, biking, or roller blading around Uptown Dallas. The temperature-controlled pool is available year-round and is reserved for hotel guests only and the the posh poolside people watching is next level. Finally, the Rose Buds program offers plenty of options for making your stay one that is both kid-friendly and fun with amenities like wireless baby monitors, babysitting services, children's menu for in room dining and at The Mansion Restaurant, and Port-A-Cribs and linens." - Diana Oates
