San Antonio’s historic Gunter Hotel returns with recording studio and vinyl library
The iconic Gunter Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is proud to announce that it is now officially open to the public. Following a transformative $57 million renovation, the reimagined hotel is officially unveiling the first phase of its restoration, inviting the public to experience the renewed legacy of this 116-year-old San Antonio landmark.
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Gunter Hotel joins Marriott Bonvoy’s Tribute Portfolio
Originally opened in 1909, the Gunter Hotel returns as a part of Marriott Bonvoy’s Tribute Portfolio, joining more than 160 hotels globally, each drawn together by their captivating design, vibrant social spaces and sincere service. The revitalized property features 311 guest rooms — including 30 suites and 14 ADA rooms — complemented by new amenities such as a state-of-the-art recording studio, 900+ album vinyl library, and four original dining and bar concepts. Additional amenities include a rooftop pool, 24/7 state-of-the-art fitness center and 20,000 square feet of meeting spaces.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome guests to the newly transformed Gunter Hotel and to share the next chapter of this historic icon,” says Jiwon Choi, owner and managing director at Axle Capital. “Our team has worked tirelessly to blend the hotel’s rich legacy with the best in modern luxury and hospitality, so we are confident that The Gunter will offer an unforgettable stay for both locals and travelers from around the world. It’s an honor to lead such a talented team, and we look forward to serving our guests with the highest standards of excellence.”
All guest rooms and select public spaces are now open, including access to the signature restaurant Jots and the elegant Keystone Club, with the full hotel opening to follow later this year.
A timeless reawakening: the Gunter Hotel design
Reimagined by award-winning design firm DLR Group, the Gunter Hotel’s interiors celebrate its Beaux-Arts architectural legacy while infusing it with bold, contemporary character. Classical symmetry is layered with avant-garde moments — unexpected artwork, dramatic lighting and rich textures — designed to inspire curiosity and creativity at every turn.
Guest rooms feature thoughtfully updated layouts with modern bathrooms, mid-century-inspired fixtures, and a moody, refined color palette. As a tribute to blues legend Robert Johnson, who famously recorded at the hotel in 1936, each room includes a record player and a copy of his first album, with a curated vinyl library available in the lobby. Guests can pick out any vinyl from the 900+ albums available. An onsite Vinyl Ambassador is able to provide personal recommendations upon request.
From the deep jewel tones and secret passageways of The Studio, to the maroon-veined stone and fluted brass bar at The Keystone Club, every corner invites exploration. Jots, the hotel’s new restaurant, evokes a writer’s retreat with warm leather banquettes, inkwell blue walls and a collection of hand-drawn sketches that honor the art of storytelling.
Culinary storytelling: layered spaces and bold flavors
The Gunter Hotel debuts four distinct food and beverage experiences that honor its creative spirit and cultural legacy: Jots, The Keystone Club, Bar 414 and Paris Baguette.
Jots and Keystone Club are now open with a limited menu and are available to hotel guests and the public. Jots is currently serving breakfast only, available daily from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with plans to introduce a full menu soon. Keystone is open daily from 3 to 10 p.m., offering a curated selection of food and beverage options, with a full menu launch coming soon.
The Gunter Hotel’s signature restaurant, Jots, is an homage to the supper clubs that gained popularity in the mid-1900s. Named after Jonathan “Jot” Gunter, a local rancher and financier of the hotel in 1909, Jots reflects his lively spirit. The restaurant will serve classic American cuisine with a retro flair, using regional and seasonal ingredients. Items on the menu will include dishes like Rosemary Prime Rib, Brown Butter Scallops and Pan Seared Alaskan Salmon, alongside sweets like a Grilled Citrus Pound Cake and Charred Peach Cheesecake to name a few.
The Keystone Club is located in the lobby of the Gunter Hotel, welcoming guests to enjoy a cocktail under the ambiance of art deco chandeliers and ornate embellishments that surround the hotel’s interior. The bar takes inspiration from its elegant surroundings, providing a sophisticated and classic menu of cocktails, beer and wine.
Bar 414 is an intimate speakeasy hidden behind a gallery wall. Named for the room where Robert Johnson recorded in 1936, the bar celebrates the Gunter’s musical roots with vintage décor, a curated drink list and a moody, welcoming atmosphere. An opening date for Bar 414 is coming soon.
Additionally, Paris Baguette, the internationally renowned café and bakery, will open its first San Antonio location onsite, serving artisanal pastries, breads and expertly crafted coffee beverages. An opening date for Paris Baguette will be announced soon.
The culinary program is led by an accomplished team: Director of Outlets Nicholle Purnell, Director of Culinary Development Sarah Myles, and Chef de Cuisine Hayley Unruh, who bring creativity, passion and innovation to every dish and drink.
New amenities: Where creativity meets experience
In addition to its immersive dining and bar experiences, the Gunter will introduce a recording studio, a nod to the hotel’s musical heritage and a space for today’s artists to leave their mark. Elevated above the iconic Bar 414 and accessed through a hidden staircase, this richly appointed social lounge invites guests into an intimate world of inspiration, where jewel-toned interiors, polished brass accents and timeless Art Deco touches converge in a layered, atmospheric retreat. The recording studio is slated to open later this year.
The Gunter Hotel, part of Tribute Portfolio, also provides guests access to the Marriott Bonvoy program, allowing members to earn and redeem points during their stay and at various hotels and resorts within Marriott Bonvoy’s extensive collection around the world.
Marriott Bonvoy benefits and phased opening
The Gunter Hotel will continue its phased opening through 2025. For updates, follow the hotel on Instagram and Facebook. For additional details about the hotel, visit thegunterhotel.com.
