I'm surprised by all the rave reviews given to the Hotel Icon. It's a nice enough hotel (though the somewhat dark and gloomy faux Southern baroque decor wasn't exactly to my taste, but if you like bordellos, then maybe this is for you) but hardly the "personal luxury boutique" hotel it bills itself to be. And surely not the best that Houston has to offer?

I stayed here for two nights. First the positives. The rooms were spacious and the beds much more comfortable than they at first appeared. The bath was huge. The staff was friendly and eager, though the service was far from polished. The restaurant is supposedly a Jean George creation, but I found that hard to believe. The food was mediocre and overpriced, especially by midwestern standards (we're talking NYC prices for glorified diner food here). The location is in downtown, but there's not much to do or see in the immediate neighborhood, so unless you're a business traveler who has business to conduct, the location is hardly a plus.

All in all, an average hotel trying very hard to convince itself and its guests that it's somehow a luxury hotel.

Attentive staff from arrival to departure. Great location in downtown Houston with restaurants and clubs within a short walking distance. My traveling companions an I visited the Whiskey Bar in the hotel and had a great time with the staff being attentive yet unobtrusive. We dropped a pile of cash sampling the different drinks and 4 bottles of champagne and I don't regret a thing. Gret hotel and bar combination. I _will_ be returning soon. Highest recommendation.

This was an amazing place! From the moment we entered the parking garage we were treated like royalty. The service was incredible. Everyone rembered our name and made every effort to make our stay special. We only stayed one night (I wish we could just move in). This is truly a gem in Houston. A great part of Downtown for nightlife. If you stay anywhere else you have really missed a golden opportunity.

Hotel Icon is a gorgeous hotel--we stayed in a premium king room, and there's a gigantic jacuzzi tub and separate shower. The rooms are better than the Four Seasons. There is a open wall space where you can watch TV from the tub. Very relaxing.

My only complaint in comparison to the Four Seasons is the service. There was a snobby attitude all-around, especially our waiter at the hotel restaurant Bank, where we had just spend hundreds on dinner the night before. Food great, service not so good.

The gym is one of the best I've seen. New, nice equipment--a real gym.

Overall, very good--I'd stay here again.