ARRIVE Austin

Austin, Texas has changed an awful lot in recent years, as the Texan capital has also become a tech capital, and ARRIVE Austin stands as a perfect emblem of that evolution. The east side of town has long been the city’s less polished, more creative side, and it still is — though it’d be a stretch to call this brand-new contemporary structure unpolished, its industrial-inspired interiors and its sociable, communal atmosphere remain true to the spirit of the neighborhood.

“Industrial-inspired” doesn’t mean cold — the concrete surfaces are warmed by blond wood, graphic wallpaper, and colorful artworks, as well as contemporary fixtures and furnishings that are as practical as they are stylish. The spaces aren’t overly large or ornate — you’re meant to spend plenty of time outside your room — but they’re more than comfortable enough, with Marshall bluetooth speakers, Brooklinen bedding, and Niven Morgan bath products. And they’re sensibly named, which is always a plus: from studios to corner and balcony rooms, and even the modest “Kinda Suite,” with a seating nook that functions as a small living room.

ARRIVE's public spaces are where most of the action is. Rather than add another New Southern restaurant to Austin’s crowd, the hotel throws a curveball: Vixen’s Wedding is inspired by Goan cuisine, the Portuguese-influenced subgenre of Indian cooking. Lefty’s Brick Bar features creative Cajun-inspired fare alongside its cocktails and beers, while the Gin Bar is exactly what it sounds like, and Cartel Coffee Lab is an Arizona import serving one of Austin’s finest cups.