Arrival/Check-in: Hotel Sorella is a brand-new property — so new, in fact, that the full outdoor signage had yet to arrive. Needless to say, the hotel was difficult to find. Our GPS did not recognize the address, and we drove past it a few times. Once we pulled up, the staff quickly took our bags and led us to the check-in desk. Within a few minutes, we were escorted to our separate rooms. (27/30)

Guest Quarters: “Spacious” came to mind when I saw my room. The sleek hardwood floor and rich décor offset the white walls and complemented the sunlight pouring in through floor-to-ceiling windows. A spacious closet and the bathroom were on either side of the entrance. I was pleased to see additional shelving in the bathroom, as I find it annoying when bathrooms offer limited counter space. The large room featured a king bed flanked by two night tables, with a corner seating area consisting of a wrap-around couch, cushioned ottoman/table and a swivel chair. Lining the wall across from the bed was a desk/TV/minibar unit in dark wood. Complimentary Internet, plenty of accessible outlets and an open floor plan topped off the room. (29/30)

Services/Amenities: The Hotel Sorella is in the heart of Houston’s new Citycentre. The up-and-coming area is a mix of stores, eateries and businesses, leaving hotel guests satisfied with plenty of nearby options. We enjoyed a delicious meal at Straits, one of at least four restaurants located steps from the hotel entrance. The hotel is home to Monnalisa Bar, which was crowded during our stay, and Café Rose and Bistro Alex, which where not yet open. The bar opens onto a rooftop pool with outside seating. Various partnerships with the local businesses, such as access to a nearby fitness center, will be attractive to hotel guests; and future plans for the property include event and meeting space. Complimentary breakfast is served every morning. Due to the buzz surrounding Citycentre, events are regularly taking place. During one night of our stay, the grassy center outside our windows hosted an outdoor concert. The sounds of live music were pleasant at first, but after three hours became a nuisance and distraction. (37/40)

The Experience: Business travelers with meetings in Houston’s Energy Corridor will enjoy the property. Citycentre is a hike from downtown and the Galleria, but the all-in-one nature of the area makes that factor less of an issue. I hope to return to the Hotel Sorella to experience all the property will have to offer once it’s fully established in its neighborhood.

Total Score: 93/100

Hotel Sorella CITYCENTRE

800 W. Sam Houston Parkway, Building 9
Houston, TX 77024
tel 866 842 0100